I reached my fundraising goal!

I got my final update on my fundraising. I have well above the required contribution so thanks again for all your support!

Another pre-trip update

I thought it was time for another update. I have learned a bit more about my assignment. My impression (although I may be mistaken) is that I am doing some initial groundwork to start working in the Tabora region. It sounds like a real challenge but it also sounds really exciting. I am looking forward to the opportunity to spend the time to get to know the people and the culture. I am currently in the process of trying to figure out what to pack for a year in Africa. It is a bit scary to try to figure this out so any tips would be welcome.

Quick update

I figured it was time to do an update so that I would get in the habit of posting before I leave. I am now at approximately half of my fundraising goal which makes me very happy...at the risk of sounding repetative...thanks. In terms of other preparation, I feel like I still have a lot to learn but I am slowly plugging away at what needs to get done. I spend today working on Swahili and I am not confident I know any more than I did this morning...but I am told it will come eventually. I am still not sure what to do to prepare for the assignment itsself but I am hoping more clarity will come in the next couple of weeks. I have also been keeping busy with a course at CMU about conflict transformation. It was a great course and I learned a lot...especially about myself. No matter where I end up, I think spending a weeking thinking about and learning about conflict will come in handy. I met some amazing people and am looking forward to taking another class next week.