International Studies & Programs

Impactful interaction with Kenyan woman

She added that money doesn’t buy her and her family happiness but being with those she loved. This interaction brought tears to my eyes because she was right. I wish I could tell her how much she impacted my life without even realizing it.

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Published: Wednesday, 08 Jun 2022 Author: Lea Mitchell

Kenyan man smiling with blue shirt and sunglassThis summer, I had the opportunity to go on a study abroad program to Nairobi, Kenya. It was my first trip out the country, and one of the best things I have done as a student at Michigan State. Not only did I see growth in my independence and maturity by doing this program, but I saw growth in several other places as well. Studying abroad has allowed me to have more sensitivity and intercultural awareness. Oftentimes, people portray Africa as a poor country and say the people are criminals, but it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. Also, the people were so sweet and welcomed us like family. Many stereotypes of Africa originate from Kenyan woman holding baby in dress while at water pump stationcolonialism, racism and false media representations which is why I want to use my voice to debunk these false claims.

During my program in Kenya, there were many great adventures and experiences, but the one experience that touched my heart the most was when I went to a water sanitation site. At the site, I talked to a woman who told me that she walked an hour and a half to the water pump station and an hour and a half back. She did this twice a day, with her daughter on her hip to get clean water. She also had four donkeys Donkeys at water stationalongside her to carry the water jugs back. The path to get there isn’t easy either. Kenya has extreme hot temperatures, and the walking trail has poisonous plants, some with sharp thorns. Another factor is she must time her walks in the daytime due to wild animals like hyenas at night. During our conversation, she mentioned that it doesn’t bother her having to walk, because she is thankful to have the ability to walk and to have access to clean water, but she wishes she could use that time for education. She even said, many people think they are unhappy, but Kenyan child in yellow shirt looking back at camerathey are very happy. She added that money doesn’t buy her and her family happiness but being with those she loved. This interaction brought tears to my eyes because she was right. I wish I could tell her how much she impacted my life without even realizing it. So, when I find myself complaining about the little things, I believe this will remind me to be grateful and see the positives. It puts life into perspective and because of this program, I will always have this core memory. This gave me a new and different perspective on life. I will never forget her beautiful smile.

As for the academic side, I was able to grow my skill set as a photojournalist and challenge myself to take risks.

Due to this study abroad, I have made friends for a lifetime and even great international connections.

Thank you to the donors who made this trip possible, I am forever grateful.

Name: Lea Mitchell
Status: Master’s student
Major: Journalism
Hometown: Boynton Beach, Florida
Program: Visual Storytelling in Kenya