I am actively preparing for my semester abroad in the Gambia! I have gotten all of my shots: yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A, and tetanus. My arm was sore for a couple of days after that doctors visit. I have stocked up on sunscreen and bug spray. They say not to use stronger than 30% DEET on your skin, but I bought some extra strength 40% DEET lotion! I figured I should protect myself as much as possible.
You might know malaria is a risk in The Gambia as well as most parts of Africa. Malaria is spread through mosquitoes, and has flu-like symptoms. Gambians are at an advantage because they know what malaria feels like and are better prepared for the symptoms. I, however, have never even had the flu. I will have to take weekly malaria pills, which my doctor and my school have helped me choose which pills to take.
I need to get a packing list together, maybe I will even blog it! Get excited!
Everyone has been super helpful in preparing to leave. It’s great because there are many students who have gone in the past that I can talk to. It’s almost like a sense of community, because they have all gone through the same experiences. It has obviously changed their outlook. I expect to have many life changing experiences.
August 2nd, 2009 at 4:59 pm
Hellooo,
I’m applying here so i was just browsing your blogs, so you are going to Gambia!! I am from there, i hope you have a good time, it’s an amazing country i love it so much! So if you have any questions just let me know as i can answer you from a Gambian point of view!
Take care
Sona
August 5th, 2009 at 10:14 am
Hello Sona,
Thank you for your response it is great to hear from you! I am interested in hearing your point of view on male/female interaction.
Thanks so much,
Laura Sipe