Naomi's Swahili Study Abroad Experience in Kenya

By Naomi Turner, Undergraduate Student 
Howard University Fulbright-Hays Swahili Group Project Abroad in Kenya - Summer 2025 

My experience in Kenya was beyond illuminating. I learned Kiswahili, explored Kenyan and Swahili culture, experienced Kenya’s environment, tasted local foods, and spoke with community members—all while taking time to delve into niche topics like art and its significance in politics, society, academia, and more.

 

I went in having never left the United States before. Coming from a family that has also never traveled abroad, I was the first to bring such an experience home. Kenya was incredibly inviting, and everyone was eager to share their culture with me. I practiced Kiswahili with locals around the hotel, my homestay families taught us step-by-step how to prepare traditional dishes, the schoolchildren we met were excited to talk with us and learn about American culture, and the students we partnered with in both Nairobi and Kilifi were so kind.

 I genuinely feel that I made connections I will never forget.

This trip has opened me up to exploring more of the world and becoming as rich as possible in experience and cultural exchange.