- I studied abroad with Yale Summer Session because…
I grew up spending a lot of time in Kenya and couldn’t imagine a better way to get school credit than to by spending two months in Mombasa.
- I would tell students thinking about YSS study abroad…
Absolutely apply. You will be surrounded by the most friendly people in the world in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Living in East Africa is invaluable for learning Swahili. In just two months I went from struggling to construct a sentence to being able to completely carry a conversation.
- Prior to arriving at the host site I wish I would have known…
You will have a lot of free time. Come prepared to find ways to get involved with the community, explore Kenya, or pursue other interests of yours.
- As far as packing goes…
Mombasa is a tricky place to pack for. It’s hot and humid all summer, but the conservative nature of the community makes it necessary to keep your shoulders and knees covered. Light kangas, skirts, knee-length shorts, and t-shirts are fine. Long pants and long sleeves are better (but often are simply too warm). Also, if you plan to explore upcountry at all (National Parks, Nairobi, etc.) be sure to pack warm clothes.
- During my time abroad the biggest obstacle that I had to overcome was…
I’m a total media junkie and not having regular access to TV or fast internet took some getting used to. I found, though, that as I settled into my surroundings, my cravings for contact with the outer world largely subsided.
- This experience didn't change my major, but…
it did give me some great ideas about doing research in East Africa for my senior thesis.
When I first heard about Yale in Mombasa I thought it had to be too good to be true. There was just no way it was possible to get school credit while living on the beautiful East African coast. The program ended up being all it was said to be and more. I had a lot of fun, my Swahili improved tremendously, and I was able to travel all around beautiful Kenya on weekends. My trip to Mombasa was by far the best thing I have ever done at Yale.
