Cassandra St. Peter ’26
Programs: Tanzania Spring Embedded
Major: Biology
Minor: Neuroscience
Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you decide on this program?
I always knew that I wanted to do a study abroad program here at CSB+SJU because it seemed like an amazing opportunity to get to learn about other cultures and experience a new part of the world. Originally, I had planned to study abroad for a whole semester, but when I heard about the Tanzania embedded program I changed my mind. I chose this course because it was a great opportunity for independent and group research. Also, going to Africa and getting to see all the wildlife sounded so awesome! Definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your program that made a lasting impression.
While we were in Tanzania, we got to visit three different tribes. We visited the Maasai, the Hadzabe, and the Datoga. It was very cool to talk with each of them and to see how each tribe lives differently. I am so glad we got to experience it. A specific experience with the Hadzabe tribe was that we all got to go on a hunt with them and see how they catch their food, which was very interesting. We saw them catch a few birds and then they built a fire and cooked them up right in front of us to eat. That experience will definitely stick with me.
Based on your experiences abroad, what are some of the benefits of spending a semester abroad? How has studying abroad contributed to your personal, academic, and professional development?
I would really recommend an embedded course, especially if you are not wanting the commitment of a full semester abroad. It is a great way to study abroad while still being able to stay on campus most of the semester. My study abroad experience was very enlightening and gave me a much greater perspective of the world. It also gave me an amazing research opportunity and I learned a lot about how to correctly carry out my own research. I learned a lot about the people, wildlife, and environment in Tanzania. I will carry this program’s memories with me for the rest of my life.
What advice can you offer for CSB+SJU students who are considering or planning to study abroad?
I would say DO IT! It is an amazing opportunity to meet new people and visit new places around the world.
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