I'm back home and have so much to think about. This educational/cultural experience made possible by IREX/TGC and the Department of State is one I will never forget. It has changed the way I think and the way I will teach globally. I have meant so many wonderful people: Dieynabou our TGC rep. who managed to get us all everywhere we needed to go. Aissatou one of our in-country consultants took care of us in the market and helped me pack my suitcases amongst many other things. Ibrahima our other in-country consultant gave us insights on Senegal and it's education system. My host teacher in Diourbel, Yamar. He and his family are now my Senegal family and I hope to go back and see them soon. Tara, my partner teacher, we worked very well together, she's the best! Last but not least my Senegal Cohort. I hope we all continue to keep in touch on Twitter, Facebook, and WhatsApp!
My research question for this International Travel is: How can we (Yamar and I) work together to help young girls who have had to drop out of school due to early marriages and poverty. Yamar and I are working on this and are hoping to start an association. Right now they are using drama and other kinds of sensitization. They also talk to the fathers and husbands of those girls who have dropped out. Yamar also tries to find sponsors for girls that are more poverty stricken. This is a huge goal and will take some time but I know we can work together and make a difference. In the mean time my school is Taking Action and helping with other supplies. I will keep you posted on my "Take Action" Page.
I hope readers will get just a taste of what I learned and felt while traveling in Senegal. I have so many more stories/activities not posted but they are memories that will stay with me forever. Good bye for now Senegal, but I will return.