SIT Study Abroad: Madagascar: Traditional Medicine

My trip to Madagascar was unlike anything I had ever experienced. It was challenging, rewarding and fulfilling all at the same time. Unlike other study abroad programs, your time spent in Madagascar will be extremely immersive, and nothing like the usual European study abroad trip your university prepares you for. We travel to different parts of the country, such as rural and more urban/modernized areas so prepare yourself accordingly. There are large scheduled shifts and dietary changes, so ask for help and support in whatever areas you need. Despite all of the challenges I experienced on this trip, it is an enlightening one where you get to have direct contact with the locals to broaden your understanding of traditional medicine, colonial history and cultural legacies. Prepare yourself to learn Malagasy, experience an "African winter" and see Madagascar's rich biodiversity.

This program provides a unique experience to dive into the Malagasy culture and the environment of Madagascar. The program offers hands on learning, cultural immersion with living with host families and Malagasy language learning, and new perspectives on global health. The program directors become like a family to you and provide tremendous amount of support and comfort. The host families are kind and welcome you with open arms into their lives/homes. This program will provide new ideas, passions, and new opportunities.

Overall, studying in Madagascar with SIT was one of the best decisions I've made. It is a really unique country, and I don't imagine my experience could be replicated anywhere else. I had very little exposure to international travel before this program, so being able to explore Madagascar with trusted locals and in group of American students made the experience far less intimidating. The program instructor, Nat Quansah is an incredible person and teacher. He is clearly very passionate about his work and fostering curiosity, compassion, and enthusiasm in his students.