International Education
Semester Program in Kanifing, The Gambia

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Why The Gambia?

In the words of SMCM students Jennie Fiskum and Michael Kerr

Why did you choose to St. Mary's The Gambia?

Jennie: I wanted to study abroad in an area I've never experienced before. I've been to Europe and have loved it, but I figured since I have the opportunity to live in Africa for four months why not try that instead. It was also a benefit that their national language is English.

Michael: I chose The Gambia for a variety of reasons, the program didn't start until after my swimming was finished, allowing me to complete the season. More importantly, it seemed far more interesting then hanging out in Europe, surrounded by American tourists and students.

What did you experience there that you might not experience elsewhere?

Jennie: While in The Gambia I really gained a perspective to what poverty is. We were able to see both urban and rural life in a developing country. That cultural experience to see how people live so differently from American's taught me so much about values and what you really need to be happy.

Michael: Every study abroad experience involves experiences that you would not have on any other program. St. Mary's program to The Gambia was a program that seemed, to me, to represent the farthest from the norm of a study abroad program I could find, it was "off the beaten path." The Gambia applied very well to my major, sociology, certainly giving me a cross-cultural view on the society I was immersed in as well as my own.

Why should other students study abroad?

Jennie: It's a great break from the daily life of college in the states. It is not any easier but it is much different from St. Mary's. It makes you appreciate what you have but also what the rest of the world has to offer. I think everyone should live somewhere else in the world at least once--you really gain a new perspective of things.

Why should other students choose St. Mary's in The Gambia and study in West Africa?

Jennie: Other students should chose The Gambia because it is a growing program that our college has to offer. They are investing a lot of time and effort to make this program grow and become recognized as a specialty we have to offer. The Gambia is a warm friendly environment where students have the ability to volunteer, take classes and hang out on the beach almost any day they are there!

Michael: Everyone who has the chance to study abroad should jump at the opportunity, especially to somewhere such as The Gambia. Most Americans don't know what it's like not to be living on our American Island. Going to countries in Europe or Africa have high rates of migration, allowing for constant cross-cultural interaction and integration. It will give you a whole new perspective on the world, your home, St. Mary's, and yourself.