Summer experiential learning in Dakar, Senegal: Visit the Saloum Delta to witness the effects of international fishing on the environment and emigration. Or, meet with community activists to understand the prominent role of hip hop in disenfranchised communities. The Dakar Short-Term program takes a multidisciplinary look at two distinct themes. The trouble will be choosing which one to follow!
For three weeks, students meet with guest speakers and go on field trips for hand-on learning of their chosen theme.
Curated cultural activities and homestay housing are included.
| At a Glance |
| All Majors |
Language of Instruction: English |
Term: Short-Term (3 weeks) |
| Eligibility: 3.0 GPA |
Freshman standing & above |
|
The program includes:
- Tuition fees for one course
- Dedicated 24/7 on-site support
- Culture package: Day trip to Gorée Island, two performing arts shows, a djembe (drumming) or dance workshop
- Housing: Stay with a hand-selected host family with daily breakfast and dinner and weekly laundry included in board
Students also receive:
- Airport pick-up on the program start date
- On-site orientation
- Pre-departure support
- Liability insurance
Please visit apaparis.com for up-to-date program fees.
Location
Dakar is the westernmost city in mainland Africa. A prominent city of the former French colonial empire for nearly three centuries, this francophone influence can be found in most aspects of life such as language, architecture, cuisine, and education.
Family, music, and storytelling are large parts of this welcoming culture. Senegal is known across Africa for mbalax, a blend of Western-style jazz, rock, and soul with traditional sabar drums. Hospitality, or teranga in the local Wolof dialect, is so important to the Senegalese that the national soccer team is known as the Lions of Teranga.
About APA
APA is a boutique program provider in Paris, France with a passion to provide a first-rate study abroad experience that unites academic excellence with the beauty and richness of French and Francophone culture. For over 30 years, students from more than 80 US colleges and universities have received a personalized, immersive education abroad in Paris, France; Dakar, Senegal; and Rabat, Morocco.
Enroll in one course from the following:
- Environment, Cultural Maritime Landscape and Emigration: Government agreements to allow international fishing competition in Senegalese waters has led to increased environmental deteriorations and lower profits for Senegalese fishermen. Emigration from the Senegambia region to Europe and even participation in illegal trafficking is seen as retaliation for these detrimental policies. Class takes place in the Saloum Delta, south of Dakar, to study first hand how the region has been impacted by emigration, environmental changes, and cultural transformations in recent years.
- Music, Belonging and Community Activism in Senegal: How has African hip hop been used to express feelings of economic disenfranchisement, solidarity amongst African descendants, immigration, human rights, and more? Gain a deeper understanding of the vitality, resilience, and global breadth of contemporary African and African diaspora communities through this music genre.
Each course incorporates site visits, guest speakers, and field trips for a hands-on learning experience. All courses are taught in English and receive four credits. Access the syllabi on our website.
Take part in essential Senegalese and West African experiences with your peers: Dakar has a vibrant culture that cannot be missed!
Cultural Events
- Two performing arts shows such as concerts, dance, theater, film
- Djembé drumming or traditional African dance workshop
- Goreé Island: Located a short ferry ride from the shores of Dakar, tour the island and pay tribute at the Maison des Esclaves memorial
An exceptional experience, living in a Senegalese homestay provides a greater understanding of cross-cultural learning and immersion
Carefully matched, each student is paired with an English-speaking host family. Students are provided with a private bedroom with linens, access to common areas including the kitchen, daily breakfast and dinner, and weekly laundry. All homestays are vetted to provide the best fit.
Eligibility
The program is open to students with freshman, sophomore, junior, senior, or graduate level class standing and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Deadline
April 15
Application Process
- Application form
- Personal statement
- Unofficial transcript
Your application will only be reviewed once these pieces are received. After, a member of the APA team will contact you to schedule a short, friendly Zoom conversation so that we may learn more about you and why you would like to study in Dakar.
Please note: Your home institution may have its own study abroad application requirements and deadlines. It is your responsibility to make sure they are all completed in the proper, timely manner.
If you have any questions, we welcome you to contact the APA US office at usa@apaparis.com, by phone at 203-883-8200, or schedule a Zoom. A team member will respond to you as soon as possible.
