Being back in the United States after such a long time is a surreal experience. In a certain way, I am completely accustomed to the comforts of home, but in another I am experiencing reverse culture shock. Some things are obvious, as in going and taking a hot shower or being able to drive, but others are more subtle changes, for better or for worse. I do not look at my phone as much as I did before I left, I appreciate the food in my fridge more, and the luxury of being able to drink tap water. I would say that all of these changes are positive, and lends credibility to the idea that this experience has given me perspective on my life and the opportunities I've had.
Another thing that this trip has taught me is the relative nature of happiness. Visiting Botswana after Zambia, we passed through villages of the native Khoisan people near the Okavango Delta. The Khoisan people have lived virtually unchanged lives for thousands of years, lives that closely mirror those of the people in rural Zambia. Prior to coming to Africa, I had read a New York Times article about the Khoisan. The article talked about how, in many ways, their culture and society could be considered the most advanced in the world, as they had developed a way of life where they would only need to spend an average of 14 hours a week working to secure their food supply, allowing them to spend the rest of their free time eating, socializing, or creating art or tools. Compared to other societies, this one has remained unchanged for thousands of years, through dramatic changes in climate and power in Africa. Looking at this way of life side by side with our lives, or even that of some of the civilizations throughout history such as Rome that are considered the most successful, it makes one question how to define a "successful society." Americans work 40 hours or more a week, and although they might have a TV and a car, who is to say that they are more happy than the Khoisan? The Romans conquered the world that was known to them, but their empire rose and fell and the Khoisan remained the same. All of this lends perspective to how we define ourselves and what our purpose is, and I feel that much of this can be applied to Zambia. As everyone who has done the program comes to know, Zambians do not have that much of a sense of urgency and deadlines. They are easygoing, laid back, friendly and positive people, and the contrast between this way of living and Cornell could not be more stark. This has taught me to be able to step back, take a deep breath, and reevaluate my priorities, and what I consider important in my live.
In terms of advice, there are some particular logistical things that I would recommend, but the main thing is this: You will get out of this program what you put into it. Do not expect for opportunities, cultural or in terms of your research, to fall into your lap. You have to be proactive, send emails, strike up conversations with people on the minibus or taxi, ask your coworkers and your host family about themselves and their lives, in order to have a full and enriching experience. You will find undoubtedly that Zambians are an extraverted and welcoming people, something that is truly singular and special.
Other pieces of advice would be bring a lot of books (preferably kindle for packing purposes). Especially books specific to the region and its history. I read "When the Crocodile Eats the Sun" about Zimbabwe, and "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela. Reading about a place while you are in it gives you a greater perspective on it.
Finally, I recommend making use of your time in Africa. I thoroughly planned a trip to do when the program ended and it could not have paid off more. I don't know if I will ever get the opportunity to go to the region again, and am grateful that I had the time and opportunity to make the most of my time in the continent.
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