International Programs
Summer Program in Tanzania
Tanzania, known for its natural wonders from Mt. Kilimanjaro to the Serengeti, is one of the most unique countries in Africa because of both its post-colonial socialist background and its relative stability and honest leadership in an unstable region. Washington College offers students a 22-day summer course on politics, culture, economy, and sustainable development in Tanzania itself.
"I think one of the things that makes the Tanzania program so unique is the fact that there are very few programs that actually go to Africa," says Dr. Tahir I. Shad, Associate Professor of Political Science, Director of the International Studies Program, and Curator of the Goldstein Program in Public Affairs. "This one gives you a chance to spend three weeks in Tanzania."
The course focuses on the familiar problems associated with Africa: poverty, unemployment, health, debt, and the conflicts between tradition and the lures of a changing world. Students are enriched by travel to one of Tanzania's national parks, traditional Maasai communities, coffee co-ops, government agencies, and health care centers.
"Anyone interested in the complicated study of development will certainly enjoy discovering first hand the complexities and challenges that exist in trying to cultivate positive change without destroying indigenous culture and knowledge," says student Kathleen O'Neill, a recent trip participant. "I strongly recommend this trip for anyone who enjoys traveling, hiking, camping, and all of the experiences that come with being surrounded by the seemingly unfamiliar and discovering that it's more familiar than you first thought."
In addition to visiting development agencies, students also go on a wildlife safari that includes hiking to the first base of Mt. Kilimanjaro.
"You get to explore the culture, wildlife, and marine life," says Dr. Shad. "It transforms the way you look at the world when you return."
Students receive four credits for participating in the Tanzania program and for writing a final research paper. The trip runs from May 21st through June 11th 2010. Cost vary each year depending on the number of participants. The trip deposit is $1000. The price of the trip includes air and ground travel, accommodations, meals (all breakfasts, most lunches, and several evening meals), guides and translators.
If you are interested in participating, please contact Dr. Tahir Shad Director of the International Studies Program at tshad2@washcoll.edu. Information sessions will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2009 at 8:00 p.m. in Goldstein 201 and Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at 8:00 p.m. in Goldstein 201. The application deadline is Friday, November 6, 2009.
Below is the schedule from the 2010 trip. This itinerary should give interested students a good idea of the trip's activities.
Downloads
- 2010 Trip Schedule (PDF)
- 2010 Trip Application (PDF) - Please bring the completed application and essay to Cindy Licata (clicata2@washcoll.edu), Faculty Secretary, located in 224 Goldstein Hall.