I was studying international development at the time and knew that I wanted to study in a developing context so that I could pair my academic learning with tangible experiences. While USP doesn't explicitly focus on development, there was so much to learn from being immersed in the Ugandan context.
I was also drawn to the program's holistic and integrative approach that ties together travel, academics, faith, cultural immersion, and self-reflection.
The Global Education Office at my university gave me guidance with the application process, but the program provider was also exceptionally helpful throughout the process.
They assisted me in every step of the application process, as well as in coordinating plane tickets and other travel arrangements, visas, vaccinations, etc. As an organization, Best Semester has outstanding support and service available for students participating in their programs.
Hold your expectations loosely. You may think that you know what to expect based on previous travel experiences or prior knowledge of the country, but you will still be surprised. It will serve you well to enter with an open mind, be willing to examine your own biases and preconceptions, and to let go of your expectations.
Uganda (or anywhere else you go) will surprise you in marvelous and beautiful ways that you may miss if you're wrapped up in your own expectations.
No two weeks look quite the same. You will have the opportunity to regularly attend classes on a variety of topics, depending on which emphasis of study and classes you choose (e.g. politics, languages, history, literature, ethics, microbiology, and social work).
USP students will also participate in an internship program with an organization of their choice, attend regular group seminars, and become integrated in campus life at Uganda Christian University through dorm life, sports, clubs, ensembles, and small groups. Students will also have the opportunity to do two different homestays with local families and participate in organized, group travel all over Uganda.
I'm not sure that it occurred to me as a fear before entering the experience, but initial culture shock was by far the most difficult part of the semester. I was able to overcome through the encouragement, grace, and teaching of the program staff, my peers, and my Ugandan friends, roommates, and host family members.
Through not being afraid to ask questions and embarrass myself, reflection, practice, and time, I adjusted to the cultural differences that were initially challenging. I also came to deeply love and appreciate Ugandan culture and to recognize the ways in which I could learn from it, or the places where my American cultural values were lacking.
It's hard to pick one last thing, because it's hard to summarize anything about this program. It will stretch you; it will be beautiful. The Best Semester website is really comprehensive and includes many more details than I can provide here, as well as being home to stories from other alumni like myself. Check it out to keep reading more!