Culture, Communication and Community Development in Tanzania: A transformative study abroad experience

KALAMAZOO, Mich.— Western Michigan University senior Shelby Vaughn says her 12-day trip to Tanzania with WMU Study Abroad was one of the most transformative moments in her four years here. 

“My entire experience has been such a blessing,” says Vaughn, a healthcare services and sciences major from Saginaw, Mich. “To pinpoint just one memory feels impossible, but what stuck with me most was how incredibly kind and resilient the people of Tanzania are.” 

Offered by Dr. Mark Orbe through the School of Communication in the College of Arts and Sciences, this three-credit summer course immerses undergraduate and graduate students in the people, culture and everyday life of Tanzania. 

Guided by local hosts, students of Culture, Communication and Community Development engage deeply with Tanzanian culture through food, dance and communication. 

“Each person we met greeted us with enthusiasm, and the presence of gratitude was felt by everyone in the room,” says Vaughn. “We were excited to learn their dances, songs and stories.” 

One of Vaughn’s favorite memories came during a visit to Mama Anna, a respected community leader recognized for her contributions to local development.  

“To see and hear all of her contributions while taking in the breathtaking landscape of her home felt like a dream,” she says. “While we were separated by the language barrier, it did not keep us away from being united by happiness.” 

WMU Study Abroad travels to 30 countries, on average, each year. The school has over 80 programs to choose from, including short- and long-term experiences, says Joe Milostan, director of study abroad and faculty enrichment at the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. 

 A variety of options are available, he says. Some students travel with WMU professors and students, while others explore the world on their own. Last year, just over 520 students studied abroad at WMU. 

“Every student at WMU should take the time to explore the variety of study abroad options that are available,” says Milostan, who recently attended the First Generation College Student Celebration to meet more students and talk about study abroad. 

"Several students I spoke with had assumed study abroad only meant spending a semester abroad. They were excited to learn that WMU offers short-term options, like Dr. Orbe’s program to Tanzania."

Intentional Professional and Academic Growth 

As a first-generation college student herself, Vaughn’s decision to study abroad was intentional. “I promised myself that I would take advantage of everything Western has so graciously provided,” she says. “I wanted to learn in a classroom that had no limits, no four walls, no desk, no chairs; just nature, culture and a passion to continue to learn and thrive.” 

Her time in Tanzania expanded her worldview and strengthened her professional purpose. “Studying abroad has equipped me with a world-class education and exposure to global medical practices that will aid in addressing healthcare disparities around the globe,” she says.  

“It shaped me into a more well-rounded and conscious student and future physician assistant.” 

Orbe, a professor of communication at WMU, has led WMU Study Abroad trips for nearly a decade. “Culture impacts every aspect of life,” he says. “Traveling to other countries provides opportunities for students to get out of their comfort zones and experience how culture impacts life up close and personal.” 

International experiences challenge ethnocentric perspectives and deepen understanding through lived experiences. "Having relevant and engaging academic content, culturally centric curriculum and opportunities for immersion facilitates the development of communication competencies that translate into personal transformation and marketable skills.” 

“We live in a global village where culturally diverse people have no choice but to interact,” Orbe explains. “Studying abroad provides opportunities to see this up close and personal in ways that aren’t possible through traditional classrooms.” 

A Personal Transformation 

While each trip comes with its own unique stories and experiences, the personal transformation of his students is something Orbe says he sees time and time again.  

“I absolutely love the sense of camaraderie, belonging, group harmony and relational solidarity that develops with each group,” he says. “On an individual level, my most meaningful memories are tied to the personal transformation that occurs with students.” 

Vaughn says her 12-days in Tanzania was a defining chapter in her life. She hopes more WMU students explore studying abroad.  

“Studying abroad has filled my heart with so much passion to continue to find opportunities where I can be part of a greater purpose and impact for many around the globe,” she says. “Being able to have an experience where I’m helping others and seeing the world simultaneously nearly pushes me to tears of happiness.” 

“Understanding that there is so much more around you than what you can physically see or interpret is a huge reason why students should study abroad,” she says. “You can open up your scope of knowledge just by immersing yourself in different areas of the world.” 

About the Haenicke Institute for Global Education    

The Diether H. Haenicke Institute for Global Education, established in 1998, fosters an environment that supports the global engagement of the Western community. Its offices assist nearly 2,500 international students and alumni at home and abroad with immigration, student success and post-graduation job training.  

The institute also facilitates short- and long-term study abroad programs for students, faculty and staff. It hosts a variety of global learning activities, such as designing and promoting scholarship and academic opportunities on campus; providing K-12 outreach; hosting lectures, panels and events; and showcasing arts, entertainment and culture from around the world. Learn more about the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. 

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.