If you want to study abroad in Africa, this is the best program I know of.

Here's what you need to know about this program: It is what you make it. You can spend your days inside, counting the days until you get to go home. Or you can go out, deal with some of the stress of living in Yaounde, and have some amazing adventures. This is not like a SIT program where someone will hold your hand and ensure that you have a "great experience." If you embrace, and exploit, the freedom of the Middlebury program, you can have a better abroad experience than you would on any SIT program.

I've spent time elsewhere in Africa (The Gambia and Rwanda) and Cameroon is my favorite country in Africa. First of all, it is safe! (Unless, of course, you go to the Extreme North. But in the South of the country, things are completely normal.) Second, it is accessible. Transport around the country is actually quite good, so you can get out and travel around. Third, Cameroonians are cool people. Sure, there are some folks who want to mess with the foreigners, but I only ever encountered good-natured heckling. I never felt threatened by someone. But by and large, Cameroonians are interesting, laid back, and sweet people. And on the Middlebury program, you have lots of opportunities to get to know Cameroonians.

If you are after an experience that will enable you to really plunge into Africa, this program is the best that I know of.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions!