The introduction

First and foremost let me bid you all good evening. I initially wanted to start this blog late last week but with jet lag, and all that comes with settling into my new environment this is the time that was able to allot. So Greetings!

My group of eleven students from MSU, U of M, University of Kansas, Columbia, U of New Orleans, and EMU touched down last Sunday at about 7 pm EAT (East African Time), which is seven hours ahead those of you back home in Michigan. Due to a new restriction on student visas we were held there three hours during which we had to pay and extra $200 for a visitors pass, on top of the $100 visa, allowing us to work and study. We arrived on MS-TCDC campus around eleven to get settled in the dorms for the night and to prepare for orientation in the morning.

There are two classes my group has been split into, Intermediate and Advanced share one, which most of the group is in. Then the beginner class where me and my long-time friend Chris Askew-Merwin are taught.

After the first day consisting of multiple tea breaks, where we indulged in Masala, Hibiscus, and other variations of black tea, the group moved into our host families’ homes which all, excluding one, live on campus. Chris and I moved into the closest home to our classes where we met the illustrious Yusta Mganga, our host mother, and her son Julius a well-rounded and well-mannered 15-yr old who happens to tower over me and Chris...Whenever we converse at the dinner table I quickly forget the age of this kid because of his composure and articulation.

Chris and I made ourselves at home with ease surrounded by our new family.

                Our surroundings included new animals. While exploring our gated community we saw storks, monkeys and heard Cows (More on this later). Our community is surrounded by lush greenery blocking a view of Mount. Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru (pictures later)  which appear to be quite near but my sense of direction is baffled due to the immense size of the ranges. Also surrounding  MS-TCDC is the Usa river and Dar es Salaam.

The week has consisted of sleeping (lots of this thanks to jet lag) classes, studying, conversing, and the well placed and occasional drink.

Forgive me such a dry and bland post but so much has happened in this first week and I feel responsible for updating all who read this blog. I promise much more comedic and interesting posts in the future.

-Jnewman-