Selorm Quist, Tanzania 2013
- claytonlwalton
- Jul 6, 2017
- 1 min read
My 2013 trip to Tanzania through the International Leadership Exchange undoubtedly had a profound impact on my personal and professional development.
ILE pushed me outside of my comfort zone, and I left the Swahili Coast with a heightened awareness of, and motivation to utilize, the confidence and skills I gained during the program. Being in Tanzania reaffirmed my faith in the goodness of people. The support from the staff and my teammates and the generosity of all those we encountered was beyond impressive. Going into the experience afraid of insects and fond of indoor luxuries, I left with an immense appreciation for nature. I was also fortunate enough to leave with a clearer focus on my career and research goals; I remain committed to contributing positively to social, economic, and political development in sub-Saharan Africa.
My participation in ILE connected me to the Paul Robeson Campus Center and afforded me the opportunity to work with the Office of Service Learning and Student Development to provide similar travel and service opportunities to many of my peers. By exposing me to the cultures and realities of East Africa, ILE provided a perfect foundation for my year-long work after graduation as a curriculum writer for students in Kenya and Uganda. The values underscored throughout the exchange--those of community engagement and teamwork--have stayed with me in my now nearly two years in public service. I was afforded an amazing opportunity through ILE and wish the program continued success!
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