A few things I know for sure...

These two months in Senegal were a rollercoaster of emotions, new experiences, and highs and lows. Throughout my fellowship I have become increasingly appreciative of what can be considered amenities in the US, the power of religion and religious institutions,

My experience in Senegal would not have been as rich without the kindness and hospitality that the Senegalese have shown us. My host family embraced me on the first day and I knew that I could nurture the feeling of home in Kaolack. We spent many evenings talking about the day's work, the rainy season, food, and the differences between the US, Peru and Senegal. In particular, I will always remember a conversation that my host sisters and I had during one evening. After we ate dinner at 21hr, we hung around the shared space of the home. Awa and I took out some mats and laid down to look at the stars and moon. We were chuckling about another bout of gastrointestinal problems when Awa swiftly sat up and asked me, "sheyla, what are your dreams, your hopes?" As I began to reflect on her question my younger sisters gathered around us and began explaining their ambitions and their current interests. This intimate conversation transformed into an interactive exchange among us and neighboring youth. Our discussion was not about the 'potential' of these children and teens. That was a given. Our exchange informed all of us about transnational pressures, structural forces and personal strengths that we have.