My
name is Daniel Shepard; I was born and raised in rural southwest
Wisconsin. I had a Waldorf elementary education, and then attended
Kickapoo High School in Viola. I have a curious mind, always wanting
to know why something is or how it works. My curiosity and desire to
understand other cultures, has drawn me to Princeton’s Bridge Year
Program. I will be embarking on this gap year adventure, with six
other students. We will be living in the West African country of
Senegal, for nine months. Our time will be spent, learning about the
rich and diverse culture of Senegal, learning French and Wolof, doing
community service projects, and traveling the countryside, observing
and learning every step of the way.
I
see this year as a time to learn, grow and broaden my perspective on
culture, religion and life. I’m looking forward to experiencing
what it truly means to live in another country, instead of simply
viewing it from the outside as a tourist. Being part of this
immersion program will be a transformative experience, and I know I
will be coming home with a multitude of life experiences that will
remain with me always. It’s these lessons that I believe will make
me a more well rounded and understanding individual. I’m excited to
be free from the stress and pressure of school, so I can focus my
attention on this adventure.
My
bags are packed and my ticket is ready; the time has come for me to
begin my first year away from home. In two days, our Bridge Year
group gathers at Princeton for a brief, pre-departure orientation,
and in one week, I will set foot in the sandy city of Dakar.
Excitement, nervousness, and a multitude of other emotions and
feelings have besieged me, as my departure creeps ever closer. This
will truly be the most adventurous undertaking I have ever embarked
on. I thank you for reading this blog and sharing in the journey!
For more updates from participants, visit the Yak Board:
http://wheretherebedragons.com/category/fall-2014/princeton-bridge-year-senegal-2014-15/For more information about the Bridge Year Program:
https://www.princeton.edu/bridgeyear/
Proud of you Dan!
ReplyDelete-Gary
Good luck, Daniel! I can't wait to read about all your adventures. I am going to share your blog with the Kickapoo staff so that they may follow along, too. :-)
ReplyDeleteAn awesome opportunity that I know you will make the most of! Hope you don't mind but I shared your blog site with my sister who spent 3 years in Togo/Ivory Coast - she would love nothing more than to return someday:) Safe travels and I look forward to some interesting posts.
ReplyDeleteHave a wonderful adventure! Look forward to your updates here.
ReplyDelete