Madagascar

$\\137$

Madagascar, the fourth largest island in the world, is located off the southeastern coast of Africa. Mariah Hamel ('02) was there for the spring semester, 2001. If you are interested in studying abroad in Madagascar, please visit SIT's webpage. To learn more about Madagascar follow the links below.

A Semester in Madagascar

During the spring semester of my junior year I chose to study in Madagascar. Madagascar is located 250 miles off the coast of Mozambique. A former French colony, Madagascar regained its independence in 1960. Today Madagascar is classified as a francophone nation; French and Malagasy are the official languages. The Malagasy culture is very diverse and is made up of seventeen different tribal groups. The capital city, Antananarivo (commonly referred to as Tana), has been greatly influenced by western culture. However, there are many regions of the country that preserve traditional religions, customs, and living practices.

Most of my learning in Madagascar was hands on. I had the opportunity to live with two families, with whom I was able to become part of the Malagasy culture. Our classes included visiting an orphanage in Tana, hiking at Ankarana (a rain forest with unique rock formations), and lectures by Malagasy professors. One key component of the program was the village stay. Every student was placed wih a rural village for one week. Akondro, which means bananas, was my home for the week. I learned to pound rice, traverse rice paddies, weave mats and speak a little Malagasy.

My program was primarily culture based, however SIT also has an ecology option in Madagascar. Madagascar's geographic location has allowed for unique wildlife evolution. Lemurs are among the country's most famed endemic species.

Looking back on my time in Madagascar, I remember the people. The Malagasy were always helpful and did their best to show me what an amazing country Madagascar is. Even when there was a language barrier- for instance, in the village only three people spoke French- I felt a sense of warmth surrounding me. My experience is one that I will remember forever.

Mariah Hamel
Class of 2002
Majors: French Studies, Mathematics