MEGAN

I have always had dreams about Africa. I have always known I would go. When this trip was brought to my attention, in that very moment I knew I was going. Since then my life has changed. Before the Africa trip, I was focusing every thing on my schoolwork, and transferring to the school of my choice. I have been in school none stop for so long that I had almost forgotten there was a world out there waiting for me. As the trip to Africa became a possibility and eventually a reality, my perception of life and where I want mine to go has become clearer. I can't wait to smell the air and touch the soil of Africa. It's always been this mysterious land with an amazing history. And the people are so incredibly beautiful, and inviting, it's like I already know them.

It's been about eight months since I first found out I was going. In that time we have gotten to know each other. I feel very lucky to be a part of this group and I know that the relationships formed during this adventure could be life long friendships. I truly enjoy these people and the diversity they bring to the group. Some of us have been trying to learn French, since that is the language we will use while in Africa. I have been so consumed by my journey that I dream about it often, and some times I dream in French, and I must say I'am much better at it on an unconscious level. At this point I have 21 days 10 hours and 45 minutes until I get on the plane. I think I'm starting to get a little excited. I keep thinking I should be a lot more nervous but a calmness has come over me. I have choosen this trip and every thing that comes with it. I believe that this is meant to be and any risk I may be faced with is worth taking. My father once told me that "if something were easy then every one would do it." I have always preferred to be different; I like to do things that other people would never do. As far as I know this is the only life I have, and it is time to start doing all of those things that people say they would like to do, but don't. I think that there are two types of people in this world, the ones that say, "any thing is possible", and the ones that say, "it could never happen to me". I do believe anything is possible and that is why I'm going to Africa.

The big question is who will I be when I return? I have already changed so much and I can feel the change happening every day. My view of the world has grown much larger and I find it hard to be satisfied with the average life style. I think that this trip is definitely a wake up call and possible the beginning of the life I have always dreamed about.

©WCC African Study Project