Lily's Cultural Immersion and Language Growth - Swahili Study Abroad in Kenya

By Lily Odhiambo, Undergraduate Student, Environmental Studies Major with Geography and Swahili Minors
Howard University Fulbright-Hays Swahili Group Project Abroad in Kenya - Summer 2025 

This summer, I had the chance to return to Kenya after almost ten years. Not only had the country developed significantly during that time, but I had as well—making me even more appreciative of the Fulbright-Hays Swahili Group Project Abroad program and the care taken to immerse students in the language, culture, and people of Kenya.

I spent eight weeks continuing my study of Kiswahili alongside students from various universities and academic levels who were there for the same purpose. We were taught by professors from several universities, all very enthusiastic about Kenya and eager to share their knowledge with us. While a significant portion of my Kiswahili learning came from the classroom, I would say that an almost equal amount came from daily interactions—speaking with program coordinators, hotel staff, student language partners, and even strangers on the street helped my vocabulary and confidence grow beyond what I had imagined.

One aspect of the experience I particularly enjoyed was seeing the diversity of Kenya—from Nairobi, to Voi, to Kilifi, to Mombasa—which further emphasized the unifying power of Kiswahili across the country. In each location, we explored different aspects of Kenya by visiting cultural and heritage sites, going on safari, visiting secondary schools, and even taking a cooking lesson during our time at Pwani University. Although my family is from western Kenya, I had never been to the Coast before, and it has now become one of my favorite places. No matter where we went, we were welcomed warmly and shown the immense joy and gratitude Kenyans have toward those who take the time to learn about their country.

The connections I built during the program are relationships I will cherish forever. Spending this extended time in Kenya helped me feel more connected to the place I was always told was my home—and now, it truly feels like home. I have never felt as close to my family in Kenya as I do now, especially with today’s technology making communication easy and with my ability to converse accurately in Kiswahili. I cannot wait for the chance to return.