It's been a while....

So it's been a while since I wrote but there is so much to say. It's half term break, and I can't believe time has flown so quickly! I have already been in Kenya 4 months. The first 8 weeks of school have been a whirlwind to say the least. On my first day I was asked on the spot to help teach evolutionary biology in my ESS class which was quite a shock. Somehow I made it work though and from there it has really been simply amazing. I won't bore you with my day to day account of every detail that has happened. But put simply- I love it here. Here are 5 things I feel have been the most life changing:

- The staff: I think it is so rare to find a place where the staff are so kind, supportive, and genuinely happy. They are truly a pleasure to work with and maintain such a high level of happiness even in the most frustrating situations.
- The students: They are fantastic. Despite their evident struggles academically they are just so inquisitive and appreciative for any help you give them that it's impossible not to miss them while you're away.
- Making a difference: I have found that any kind of effort I put towards these kids takes them a long way and helps develop what the school envisions for the future.
- Teaching: I think I have found my passion. While I will readily admit that I am not good at it. I enjoy the challenge every day of engaging the students and coming up with innovative ways to present material. It seems to give me energy and really rewarding.
- Learning and growing: I feel that I am learning so much from this experience about myself and others.

I wake up every day with an overabundant feeling of appreciation for being selected to be a fellow at the academy. While there are setbacks and hurdles all the time, the first 8 weeks have been fantastic and I can't wait for the next! They have somehow blocked shutterfly, but I will be uploading new pics soon!