Summer Spotlight: Teaching and Learning on a Service Trip to Kenya

This summer, student Miriya Carson participated in a volunteer service trip to Kenya that was led by Chaplain Stacy Pardue. Carson shared this reflection on her experience.

This summer, I had the extraordinary opportunity to participate in a service trip to Kenya, where I, along with a group of seven other Meredith students, taught various subjects to students ranging from elementary to high school at the Agape School and Orphanage. The experience was not only about imparting knowledge but also about cultural exchange and mutual learning. Our journey took us to Nairobi and its surrounding communities, where every moment in the classroom counts.

From the moment we landed in Nairobi, we felt the warmth and hospitality of the Kenyan people. After a long flight, we arrived at our host home, which would be our home for the next two weeks. The family welcomed us and fed us amazing food such as chapati and various stews and samosas. Bonding with their kids and walking through town with them was an eye-opening experience as they seemed to know everyone. Everyone greeted everyone and new friends were quickly made. The school, though modest in resources, was filled in spirit and enthusiasm. All of the teachers and students were so welcoming and excited to learn. 

Our mornings began with the youngest learners. The elementary students greeted us with bright smiles and lots of high fives. We taught a variety of subjects, focusing on English and basic mathematics. Interactive activities, such as storytelling and jumping rope, captivated the children’s attention. One memorable experience I had was teaching a few students how to play thumb war which ultimately turned into a majority of the classroom challenging each other to a match. Another is when we taught the students various dances outside, and in turn, they ended up teaching us their own dances.

We also spent time with middle school students. This group was particularly interested in math and sciences. We also focused on developing their English skills, using reading comprehension exercises and group discussions. The students’ proficiency in English varied, but their willingness to participate and improve was universal. Through these interactions, we learned about their dreams and aspirations, along with their past experiences. I learned that many aspired to be doctors and engineers. Unfortunately, job opportunities for even the most educated are minimal; the economy really struggles.

The high school students presented a different set of challenges and rewards. They were aware of the global context and had a deeper understanding of the subjects. Our lessons delved into more complex topics in algebra, chemistry, and literature. Discussions were lively and often extended beyond the classroom, reflecting their hunger for knowledge and critical thinking. I found that a majority of these students had a love for mathematics. Trying to engage the students, we did various “challenge problems” each day. 

During class breaks and lunch periods, I spent time getting to know individual students. Some expressed their love for reading and writing. Others showed me some popular hit songs in the area, along with the song’s accompanying dance routine. 

During this, I learned how little students know about their bodies and the diseases which could affect them. Blythe, Olivia R., and I gathered all of the high school girls and did a lecture on feminine hygiene, anatomy, and general health. From there, I went to a separate class and taught a short lecture on infectious diseases such as HIV, malaria, and typhoid and how to prevent these diseases. I loved all of the questions from my lectures and knew that each of them were able to take something from the presentation. I was touched when one student came up to us with several questions and from there said she would be back the next day with more questions from her sisters. 

Outside the classroom, we participated in various community activities, which enriched our experience and strengthened our bond with the local community. Exploring this beautiful city and seeing the diversity in the area was truly eye-opening. We ventured through different markets, malls, and parks. During this, we learned how to bargain and speak some Swahili. Evenings were filled with cultural exchanges, where we shared stories and reflected on the day and planned for the following day. We also had an amazing dinner at a Kenyan alumna’s house, and another alumna joined us. We loved hearing their personal and career stories!

Our service trip to Kenya was a transformative experience that went beyond teaching. It was a journey of learning, empathy, and cultural exchange. The students we taught left an indelible mark on our hearts, and we hope that our presence made a positive impact on their lives. As we returned to our college life, we carried with us not just memories but a renewed commitment to making a difference in the world. We are already talking about as a group supporting the school financially now and in the years ahead. We will miss Kenya and I know each of us is already planning our next trip to Nairobi!