My Fulbright Experience Coming to a Close: Final Work Projects & A Fulbright ETA Portfolio.

It is amazing how nine months can just fly by, especially in a place you've grown to love so much.  Completing my Fulbright fellowship in Dakar, Senegal has allowed me to grow both professionally and personally.  Being able to collaborate and work with people so interested and invested in the English language, in the promotion of language learning in general, and cross-cultural education has been a dream for me.

A number of events/trainings were held that reaffirmed my love of language learning and working with teachers (a few pictures below):

For ATES' English Language Day, Michelle and I were asked to conduct a training on Instructional and Management Strategies in Mixed-Ability Classrooms. 

One of my last meetings with one of my favorite Dakar English teacher cells.  They decided to break out into song, singing John Legend's "All Of Me." Hahaha! 

I was asked to help coach and judge a competition for MYouth Mobile Camp Senegal.  Six teams were chosen to participate after vetting of their applications, and they were asked to pitch their mobile app (on education, commerce, environment, health, etc.) to a group of judges in both French and English.  These were some incredible apps!  Ultimately, an education app won, and they were given the opportunity to compete in another global competition. 

ATES also hosted the Dakar Students' Day, where Michelle and I helped out with the Spelling Bee. There was so much buzz around this whole day, and it was great to work with students! 

One of the biggest projects we at Senegal's Ministry of Education's Bureau d'Anglais (Office of English Teaching) wanted to accomplish was a Central Region Teacher Training.  Ngouye, my boss, identified a couple of areas of Senegal that requested and wanted more professional development training due to a lack of resources, etc.  With generous help from the U.S. Embassy, we were able to plan and execute this Central Region Teacher Training with much success!

For a week, we traveled to four specific areas/towns: Diourbel, Kaolack, Kaffrine, and Fatick. The teachers in each of these towns/regions requested different professional development themes and we wanted to make sure that we were able to understand their teaching context, address them, and provide appropriate strategies that they can implement directly in their classrooms/in their professional careers.

Some of the topics/themes addressed were: Project-Based Learning; Strategies in Preparing Students for the BFEM National Exam; Incorporating Culture in English Language Teaching; Teaching Grammar Communicatively; and Teaching Vocabulary Communicatively. 

Because we were heading to the central region of Senegal, it was very hot and the schedule was quite grueling, but we kept pushing through.  In total, we worked with about 120+ English teachers who effectively disseminated the information they gained with their respective English teaching cells.  As is customary in West Africa, Certificates of Participation were given as a token of our appreciation for their attendance and participation -- and hopefully to encourage them to use these strategies soon!

I will say that I was impressed with the caliber of English teachers, their passion and drive, and their active participation.  I almost wish I recorded all of the discussions to be used in some other way for future professional development trainings!  But this kind of zeal motivates me...and makes me wonder if I should come back again soon in another capacity...

Ngouye and I, stamping and signing the various Certificates of Participation for our 120+ English teachers! 

Our first training in Diourbel. 

 

We were lucky enough to stay Adjana Hotel, a new complex in Kaolack.  The rooms were absolutely beautiful!  A nice little break from a busy day of teacher training. 

Ngouye and I about to start our training in Kaolack. 

Some wonderful participants in Kaolack! 

Kaffrine had some great discussions on incorporating culture in English language teaching...and I forgot to mention that the U.S. Embassy provided us with prizes to give teachers.  We used them at the end for mini-quizzes to see if teachers were paying attention during our presentations, haha! 

Our last group in Fatick was very dynamic and had some of the best discussions.  If only we were there longer to keep it going! 

Saying farewell is never easy, but it eventually needed to be done at the Ministry of Education, my work home for the majority of my Fulbright fellowship. 

Since formalities are essential, I had to say farewell to Mr. Joseph Pierre Ndiaye, Director of the Cabinet of the Ministry of Education (second in line after the Minister of Education).  A very funny and intelligent man! 

As I had mentioned before, my last thing was to create a sort of institutional memory piece so that future Fulbright ETAs can continue the work and collaboration with the Ministry of Education's Office of English Teaching -- and also so that we're not constantly reinventing the wheel.  For my last few weeks, I worked on creating and compiling a Fulbright ETA Portfolio: Professional Development Presentations & Other English Language Activities.  It felt like quite the accomplishment and great to put this all together!  

Senegal: An Experience for Every Taste Palette (FOOD, both local & international).

If you know me, you'll know that next to travel, meeting new people, and spending time with my loved ones, food is right up there.  It brings people together.  It allows you to get a literal taste of the culture.  It opens up conversations.  It allows you to try new things and make conclusions from it.

Senegal, but specifically the capital of Dakar, is quite the melting pot.  Of course, you have the gamut of (wonderful) traditional Senegalese dishes.  But being an international city with people from all over the continent (and the world), you're bound to find something that suits you.  

Below is a collection of pictures of various dishes I've had (local dishes mostly cooked by my host sister, Arame, and my host mom, Mama Soda) and some recommendations for places to eat around this beautiful city of Dakar -- and in no particular order.  I want to preface: this post, by no means, does not give justice to the culinary scene here in Senegal.  There are many Senegalese dishes I did not include but do know I found all of them tasty and delicious!

Bon appétit! 

Thieboudienne: One of the most iconic Senegalese dishes.  It is made of fish, rice, and tomato sauce with many other ingredients such as carrots, onions, cabbage, etc.  The green side dish on the top often accompanies it, which I absolutely loved.  I believe they were bissap leaves with mixed with lemon and few spices.  Absolutely delicious!  This is best served in a large platter for everyone to share by eating with their (right) hands.  

Yassa Poulet (variation) & Haricots Verts: This is another iconic Senegalese dish, though a variation of it.  The chicken is marinated in lemon juice and other spices for quite a while, and top with grilled onions.  Arame would often accompany it with a delicious green beans side with black pepper, carrots, and bell peppers. 

Poisson Rouget: I don't know if this is the exact name but this is what Mama Soda would always call it.  They served it with fries but this fish was seasoned in a way I've never quite experienced.  And I realized it was only with my host family that I ever had it this good!  Often times, they would accompany it with salad and a homemade dressing. 

Poisson Daurade: When I was working at the Ministry of Education in downtown Dakar, there was a place we would always go to in the same area as the Ministry of the Interior.  Nothing super fancy but the food was cheap and pretty god.  You'll notice that Senegalese cuisine often involves lots of seafood because of the proximity to the water.  

Bar Mermoz (Mermoz, Dakar) - Fataya avec des Crevettes: One wouldn't expect this neighborhood dive bar to have much, but their fataya was on point and the best I've had in Dakar.  Fataya is like a deep-fried empanada stuffed with a variety of things -- onions, fish, tomatoes, etc.  This one was particularly great because they seemed to make the bread themselves.  And the fact that this came (randomly) accompanied with shrimp was great! 

Au Marché: This isn't quite at one of the many bustling markets of Dakar but just around the corner from my house.  Vegetables and fruits are often sold on sides of the road and you can select what you want.  I just love all of the colors (which became a recurring theme during my time in Dakar). 

Restaurant Le Zaouli (Plateau, Dakar) - Foutou: This Ivorian restaurant in downtown Dakar (Plateau) is quite good and is across from a Dakar institution, Chez Loutcha, a Cape Verdian restaurant.  When I was living in Burkina Faso, my neighbors would often cook foutou, which easily became one of my favorite West African dishes.  Foutou is usually made from plantain, cassava (manioc), or yams.  They are boiled and then ground with a mortar/pestle with warm water until it becomes a sort of ball.  It is served with a variety of sauces and is very filling! 

 Praça Do Império (Bissau, Guinea-Bissau) - Caldo: Michelle and I went here when we had our work trip to Guinea-Bissau.  It's at a restaurant along one of the main roundabouts in Bissau.  Caldo is a stew dish, often served over rice.  Quite delicious! 

Simone Café (Mermoz, Dakar): This is one of my most favorite places in Dakar -- not only because it was a mere three-minute walk from my house, but because the atmosphere was so calm, the food/drinks were so delicious, and the owners were absolutely lovely.  I really felt at home there and often would 'escape' here from the hustle-and-bustle of Dakar.  It's a Brazilian café owned by a wonderful couple (the husband did most of his schooling/growing up in the U.S.) and they have some of the best treats.  I'm not a huge coffee drinker but their Brazilian coffee was divine.  They also have your classic Portuguese favorites!  A must try! 

 Le Jardin Thailandais (Point E, Dakar): I believe the only Thai restaurant in Dakar.  It can get pretty pricey (as is the case in Dakar for ethnic/international cuisine) but it was good Thai fix, especially their pad thai. 

Feel Juice (Plateau, Dakar): When I wanted a break from Senegalese cuisine for lunch, I'd often walk around Plateau (downtown Dakar) and see if I can find a new place.  Restaurants/cafés are opening up everywhere and this one fit the bill.  Smoked salmon wrap and a strawberry smoothie.  Refreshing on a hot day! 

La Demeure (Almadies, Dakar): This is somewhat hidden in one of the neighborhoods of Almadies, an area where many expats live and where the U.S. Embassy is located.  This restaurant/hotel isn't too far from one of my good friend's place, Tiyok.  They have a wonderful spread for brunch and is great to have after a long night before! 

EspritSushi (Plateau, Dakar): This sashimi bowl was everything I needed at the time, with avocado to boot! You'd be surprised at the number of sushi/Japanese restaurants in Dakar. One of my good friends, Violette, and I made it our (expensive) mission to try as many sushi places we could find (and even created our own ranking system).  EspritSushi was quite good, though the best was Fuji in Plateau as well.  Not surprising that Fuji was also the most expensive! 

La Royaltine (Plateau, Dakar): You'll note that many of these restaurants are located in Plateau, the downtown of Dakar. One institution, especially for sweets, is La Royaltine.  And trust me -- it delivers!  Cakes, pastries, and the like of every kind.  Their 'croissant aux amandes' (almond croissant) is to die for! 

Pause Douceur (Plateau, Dakar): This place just opened during my last couple of months in Dakar and it is quite the café.  Another quiet spot to escape the hustle-and-bustle of Dakar, they have fresh and tasty food -- like these fluffy quiche with salad.  Top it off with one of their fresh juices or smoothies, and you're good to go! 

 

Presse Café (Plateau, Dakar): If you're looking for a café that's equivalent to Starbucks (where you can get work done, use the WiFi, etc.) but with better coffee, this is the place to come to!  The drinks are quite good and it's a great place to get some work done.  Whenever I need to work but wanted a change of scenery from the office, I would come here.  And the people watching is great, too! 

 Ndougou (Breaking of the Fast for Ramadan/Iftar): During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims all around the world fast during the day.  They break their fast when the sun sets, and in Senegal, they would often break it with tea, dates, and something small like sandwiches.  They would pray, and then have their full meal.  It was a great time to reflect and just be a part of this very important cultural experience. 

Had to end this with Linda (cat in the background), eyeing my oatmeal.  This was when I was housesitting for a friend and just reminds me of the simplicity of enjoying a meal. 

Like I said, this is by no means an exhaustive list of the food in Dakar/Senegal or the many restaurants I was lucky to try.  Go check it out for yourself, and I think you'll be quite surprised! 

29 on the 29th & bittersweet farewells.

My, how time flies!  I always seem to have the intention to post something but then something comes up -- and two weeks pass, and there isn't a new blog entry in sight.  Must change that!

First things first, my Golden Birthday -- turning 29 on the 29th (of October)!  If you know me, I'm not one to get too crazy for my birthday (though my Dirty 30 may be a different story...), so I wanted to keep it chill and simply celebrate it with my host family and a couple of friends.

After work, we grabbed some pizzas from Caesar's, a restaurant not too far from my house.  Arame and I also went to get a cake from Brioche Dorée, a pâtisserie (bakery/pastry shop), that can be found all over Dakar.  With my host family, Michelle, and my Gabonese neighbor/friend Ance, it was such a good time to laugh, eat some good food, and just be present on a nice Dakar night.  Last year, I made "gratitude" a priority in my life, and this year I've decided to focus on "opportunity" -- taking advantage of many of the opportunities given to me, and also trying to expose others to opportunities available to them.

Couldn't have asked for a better 29th birthday here in Senegal!  Looking forward to what my last year in my 20's will bring.  

Arame and I walking back home with the cake.  She insisted we buy a plastic bag because our neighbors would inevitably want some of the cake, too, haha! 

On Facebook a few days prior to my 29th birthday, one of my former high school classmates posted this really unique video -- his life, comprised of one-second video clips for each day within the past year.  I really liked the idea and decided that, for my last year in my 20's, I'd make a concerted effort to try this out.  So far, it's been good and I highly encourage anyone else to try this out: 1 Second Everyday.  That said, be on the lookout for a video in a year!  (Quick tip: It's best if you film everything in "landscape" mode.  My first several video clips are in "portrait" mode, which is fine, but would look better in "landscape" mode.)

Halloween was a couple of days later, and Jen (fellow RPCV from Burkina Faso who has been living in Dakar for a few years) invited us to an expat party.  It was awesome creating last-minute costumes with what we had in our suitcases, and of course, I dressed like a nerd!  Met some great people doing some interesting work, from journalists to fashion designers to consultants to...you name it.  Always interested in hearing what different people are doing here in Dakar, as this is truly a regional African hub!

Happy Halloween from Dakar!  

Only a mere few days after, my host sisters, Mary and Martha (two study abroad students that are going on this awesome, around-the-world trip this semester) left for their last leg in Vietnam (with a short in-country vacation in Senegal first).  That's perhaps why I will always keep traveling, but more importantly, living and immersing myself in different countries/cultures -- because of the people you meet and the experiences you end up sharing with each other.  The two of them are mature beyond their years, are extremely aware of social issues, and just great people!  They've had many assignments where they've had to analyze a certain cultural situation, or ask about specific aspects of Dakar/Senegalese life.  There were many dinners where I found myself translating for them (which I was happy to do!), and in the process, learned so much about life here in Senegal -- more than I would have if they weren't here to ask such questions.

The morning they were supposed to leave, it truly was a bittersweet farewell.  Happy for them to continue on their journey, but sad to see them leave the family.  We took typical "family pictures" in our Senegalese outfits, but what got me was when they said goodbye to Mama Soda.  At that point in my time here, it had been about 2.5-3 weeks living here in Senegal, yet tears were streaming down my face as the girls hugged Mama Soda so tight.  To see them so close to a woman that served as their mom for the past month, and wonder when they'd see her again.  And it got me thinking that the relationships we cultivate with others are what truly sustain us.  We're interconnected more than we think, and when we make the time to get to know others, it affirms this interconnectedness.

Morning family pictures!  The top is with our "parents" and the bottom are all the kids of the family.  Very grateful and blessed that we all meet at this very time, in this very place.  Wow. 

A month in and I feel like I've learned so much.  Yet there is so much that still awaits, and I can't wait to share the rest of it with you!  Will have to do another blog post on recent discoveries here in Dakar (food, sights, etc.) and recent developments in my work as a Fulbrighter!  Stay tuned!  

Host family love and first impressions of Dakar.

My goal was to post at least once a week, but time in West Africa is a very weird thing -- it seems to go by quickly yet pass so slowly all at the same time.  Ironic, yes.  But for those that have been here, you probably understand my sentiment.  That said, I feel like I'm long overdue for a new blog entry.

Two Saturdays ago, all 8 of us Fulbright ETAs parted ways and headed to our respective towns in Senegal.  As sad as it was, we all realized we'd visit each other at some point during our grant periods to get a better glimpse of Senegal (especially outside of Dakar), so lots to look forward to in the coming months.

Thanks to Matthew (Fulbright Alumni from Senegal, and who I met at the Pre-Departure Orientation), he was able to connect me with his old host family in Mermoz, a nice residential neighborhood in the middle of Dakar.  Soda (host mom), Ton-Ton (host dad), and Arame (housekeeper who's also like a host sister to me) make up this very small family.

My host mom, commonly referred to as "Mama Soda," as she cooks a Senegalese dish that looks very similar to pancit, a Filipino noodle dish.  She is so warm and inviting -- and makes sure that we get fed a lot.  They've received and hosted many foreign students and young professionals! 

One afternoon my host sister/housekeeper, Arame, was explaining to me how she danced at this really fancy club a couple of years ago.  I thought I was going to die of laughter!  While there may be a little bit of a language barrier (she speaks really broken French, but speaks Wolof fluently), moments like these make me realize how important family -- in all forms -- is. 

We also have two study abroad students that are staying in the house for a month.  They're also like my host sisters and we have such a good time -- and makes me realize that for someone in his late 20's, I sure act like I'm still in college, haha!  But seriously, they're wonderful and are so future-oriented (more so than I was in college).  They're both a part of this study abroad program that took them to New York (2 weeks), Argentina (1 month), and Senegal (1 month).  Their last stop in Vietnam (1 month).  Such a cool program!

The house itself is relatively small, but I'm lucky to have the upstairs room (think 'in-law' style) with a little outdoor terrace with a view of a neighborhood and an outdoor sink.  It makes for cooler and breezy Dakar evenings, and is a great place for me to have my own space.  Who knows, I may stay her for the whole 9 months of my Fulbright grant!

So I did something like this when I was in the Peace Corps, and will do this again.  Here are some of my first impressions of Dakar organized by topic.  Would you expect anything less from me?  =)

• Food/Drink: If you love seafood/fish, this is the place to be!  Fortunately, for me, I fall under this category and have been eating a variety of well-seasoned and wonderfully prepared dishes (thanks to Arame/host family)!  Thiéboudienne is the national dish of Senegal and consists of fish that's seasoned with lemon, garlic, onions, other herbs -- then cooked with tomato paste along with lettuce, carrots, etc., served on rice (which is more red because of the tomato paste). Poulet yassa is another dish, and it comes with this great onion-sauce side.  They have your standard West Africans drinks as well: bissap, gingembre, etc.  All in all, very good food and will definitely be posting more pictures throughout my time here. 

When Michelle (other Fulbright ETA posted in Dakar) and I walked along the Corniche, we found a guy selling fresh coconut juice.  Mmmm! 

• Transportation: Speaking strictly from the Dakar perspective, cars and taxis (!) abound.  Everywhere.  There are not as many motos as there were in Burkina, at least in Dakar.  Taxis, while everywhere, require you to haggle and bargain -- which can be fun but also frustrating if you want to get to your destination ASAP.  Fortunately, I've gotten the hang of around how much a taxi ride should cost (of course, it can go down/up by a few hundred CFA).  Mermoz to Plateau/centre-ville is between 1200-1500cfa, shorter distances can range from 500cfa-1000cfa, and Almadies to Plateau/centre-ville can be from 2000cfa-3000cfa.  Going from where I live to downtown can get pricey with taxis, so there is a relatively good public transit network; though it's really an adventure trying to figure it all out!  There are 4 main types: 1) Dakar Demm Dikk buses (blue or beige buses that are the official public transport system in Dakar; set routes); 2) AFTU/Tata buses (white buses with blue stripes on the side; set routes); 3) Ndiaga Ndiaye vans (white vans with apprentices in the back shouting the destination); and 4) Car rapides (brightly painted minibuses that are iconic of Dakar/Senegal).  They range in price -- anywhere from 50cfa to 150/200cfa.  Been trying them all out and it's quite fun, especially as an alternative to taking taxis.  This English speaking blog, Direction Dakar, is a good start to help those interested in taking public transport in Dakar! 

Car rapides that run throughout the city of Dakar.  So iconic of Senegal! 

• Language: French is the language used for administrative and educational purposes, but by far, Wolof is the language that almost everyone speaks.  Other languages, such as Pulaar, Mandinka, Sereer, and the like can be found as well.  A simple Salaamaalekum/Maalekum salaam ('Peace be upon you') is the standard greeting, and will go a long way when getting to know someone.  I originally came to Senegal with the intent of continually improving my French, but Michelle and I signed up for Wolof classes at the Institut Français and so far, they've been helping.  Like Burkina, Senegalese folks light up when a foreigner speaks some Wolof -- and rightfully so!  I don't expect to be fluent by the end of these 9 months, but hopefully have a good grasp of it.  

• Weather: Arriving in October has its pros and cons.  It's one of the hottest months of the year (humidity...ughhhh), though I hear it gets cooler from here on out.  I've felt it more in the morning, where there's a cool breeze -- in part, thanks to the ocean being so close and Dakar jutting out as the farthest point west on continental Africa.  I imagine the rest of Senegal may be a bit hotter, though I'll let you know when I get the chance to visit! 

• Religion: Islam is by far the most dominant religion (around 95% of the population) though there is a small percentage of Christians.  Like Burkina, one thing I love about Senegal is the amount of religious tolerance the Senegalese have for each other -- one thing we in the U.S. could learn a thing or two about, particularly given the climate nowadays.  The mosques and calls to prayer make this a place very much rooted in faith, and as a Catholic, it's so interesting to me!  

On my first Sunday in Dakar, I took a taxi downtown to visit la Cathédrale du Souvenir Africain.   Very interesting place, particularly in a predominantly Muslim country -- but the two religions co-exist perfectly, and respect each other! 

• Housing: Again, I can't comment on other parts of Senegal but Dakar is your typical city (with of course, French and even Middle Eastern influences) -- anywhere from apartments to huge mansions along the Corniche which runs along the coast.  My host family's house is very much like a duplex/condo setting in a residential neighborhood just off one of the main avenues in Dakar.  I'm lucky to have a second floor room with a terrace-type area and outdoor sink.  Love sitting out there at night with the fresh, ocean breeze; we'll all sometimes eat dinner up there as well! 

• Clothing: Oh, YES!  Senegalese (and quite frankly, African) fashion is all about vibrancy and color.  One regret I had in Burkina was giving away all of my tailor-made clothes.  Not this time, though!  Of course, finding the right tailor is never easy.  I was lucky in Burkina because my village tailor, Mathieu, also happened to be one of my good friends.  And of course, looking for fabric (le tissu) can be both exciting and daunting because of the many different types of fabric available.   I hope to have a traditional boubou made, along with pants (with a hipster/modern look, haha).  Will post more pictures as I get clothes made! 

Getting my first shirt made here in Senegal.  Brought in a model shirt just to show the cut I'd like.  It's so much fun getting this done! 

Back to washing clothes by hand, though this time, I'm lucky.  I only have to wash my underwear and there is running water! 

• Hospitality: There's something to be said about the hospitality that Africans extend to foreigners/visitors.  It's something that I've especially noticed in French-speaking African countries, and Senegal is no exception.  They have this term in Wolof called "teranga" (hospitality) that is really a way/philosophy for life.  I most especially feel it when my host mom, Soda, continually offers me more food at meals -- even after I've said I'm full, haha! 

• Work: As I've mentioned before, I'm posted at the Ministry of Education's Office of English in the Plateau neighborhood/downtown Dakar.  Work has been relatively slow (just meeting people, attending meetings, and getting a feel of the resources available here) since the school year has just started, but Ngouye has mentioned our work will really pick up in a couple of months as professional development seminars and traveling to various regions in Senegal kicks in.  Looking forward to it!  In the meantime, Michelle and I started getting ourselves involved in English language activities at the U.S. Embassy -- conversation clubs, webinars, and American film viewings/discussions.  Regardless, I can feel my network of English language professionals growing day by day, and it makes me realize that as a Fulbrighter, your professional growth depends on how much you involve yourself in both your work environment and the greater community.  

View from the office.  I'm actually in a connecting room (which has air conditioning, lol) but you can see the many English language resource books which are available to teachers.  

• Dakar as a City: I remember living in my village in Burkina Faso and dreaming of going to Dakar.  It truly is a regional hub, and people from all over West Africa come here to study and work.  I'm very lucky to live off of one of the main avenues in Dakar where you can find pretty much anything you'd like.  As well, the Corniche, which runs along the coast of the city, has a beautiful view of the ocean and many people run and walk along there.  Working in the Plateau region/downtown area makes me feel like I am in such a big city with all of these bigger buildings -- a change from Ouagadougou.  Technology is relatively accessible here and I'm more connected to the Internet than I thought I would be -- I have an internet USB key for my laptop, and am able to use my iPhone from the U.S. with a Senegalese SIM card.  

Picture of some of the many buildings in the Plateau/downtown area of Dakar.  You can clearly see the French influence in this city. 

 Walk along the Corniche and you are mesmerized by this view.  So beautiful! 

Such an interesting feat -- le Monument de la Renaissance Africaine.  You can climb the almost 200 steps to get to the top (free!), then enter the inside the monument for a tour of how it was constructed as well as learn more about Senegalese culture (for a fee). 

This is from the top of le Monument de la Renaissance Africaine, one of the hills.  These two hills are called "Les Mamelles" (yes, you read right if you understand French!).  The other is where the lighthouse is located, and beyond that, is la Plage des Mamelles and les Almadies (where the U.S. Embassy is located) in the far distance. 

• Expats from Outside of West Africa: In addition to many people from all over West Africa, there are plenty of expats from outside of West Africa as well -- Americans, French, British, Canadians, Lebanese, Chinese, Japanese, etc.  The list is truly endless, and I've seen more 'Western' expats here than any other city in West Africa.  It's been great meeting people of various nationalities, and hope to meet more during my time here! 

• English Speakers: Perhaps one of the biggest surprises.  There were more Senegalese that speak some level of English than I originally thought!  Maybe it's the circles that I've been encountering, but by and large, it's bigger than I thought, especially for being a French-speaking country.  I attribute it to a number of things: many people from all over the world living here; Senegalese expats living in the U.S. and other English speaking places; and a great desire to learn the English language.  It makes me realize the work of us Fulbright ETAs is both wanted and necessary.  We're not only language resources/teachers, but are also able to share American ideals and perspectives.  The cross-cultural exchange is, by far, one of my favorite things about being here and hope it only continues to grow.  

Until next time!  Don't forget to keep checking in for updates, and commenting on these blog posts!