Caitlin: Maa la raaw FUUF! (I missed you MORE!)

So, you guessed it, I’m home! My last week in Dakar was…interesting. I was sick pretty much all week with a high fever and abdominal pain. Still not entirely sure what’s going on but do not fear! I have a doctor’s appointment here in the states tomorrow. When I wasn’t spending countless hours feeling sick in bed, I was exploring different markets I hadn’t visited before and, oh yeah, writing that final 20 page French paper about our internships. Fun times. Especially after this week, I am definitely going to miss how colorful Dakar is–both the markets and the people. 

In our final seminar on Friday, we discussed the challenges of going home–reverse culture shock and all. I decided to make a list of lessons, ideas, and other things I’m taking back with me to the states. Here it is: 

Sharing: The Senegalese are extremely generous. Especially being in Fatick, I learned that there is always enough and making someone feel welcome and happy is more important than retaining any material possessions. Come over for dinner whenever you like! I would be happy to feed you.

Ataaya time: Often, in life, and especially at school, we don’t have a lot of time. The moments we share with friends are often short and not entirely meaningly because we have so much other stuff going on. The Senegalese, I’ve found, are very present. And when they sit down to talk, they talk. I want to start being more attentive, more present. And I want to make quality time with friends and family a priority in my life. 

More moderate veganism: I was a pretty strict vegan before I left for Senegal. While none of my reasons for being vegan have changed, being in Senegal for four months has made me a little more relaxed about sticking to it. I’m going to incorporate a little yogurt and fish into my diet (sustainably-produced only, of course!), because I felt good eating them in Senegal. Meat still grosses me out, though, don’t worry. 

Self-awareness: I guess this is what happens when you’re in a village for six weeks and you have literally nothing to do but think about your life. I think I’m coming away from this trip with a better understanding of how I work and what I’m capable of. 

New friends: I was not at all expecting for the other students to play a role in my study abroad experience, but this is one of the best things that came out of my experience. I truly love everyone (all 11 of us!) on the program, and some people have become extremely close friends. My experience would have been completely different without them. 

Two booboos, two pairs of shoes, four pairs of pants, 8 bin bins, countless bracelets, two pagnes, one dress, two necklesses, one prayer mat, two ataaya cups, one bag of homemade sugared peanuts, one backpack, several items of Sophie’s clothing, one calabas, one belt, many recipes, one cartilage piercing, a full journal, and countless gifts. Here’s to having a shopping addiction in the midst of the markets of Dakar. 

Senegal has left me with a lot to think about. For now, I want to carry the experience with me and start fresh back in the states. Thanks for following me these past four months. I can’t wait to talk to you all about it in person now that I’m home! 

Until my next adventure, then. Ba benin yoon, inchallah! 

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