It's almost here. It's almost time to start this incredible journey with the Fulbright Specialist Program through the U.S. Department of State. The program helps link U.S. scholars to host institutions for two to six week periods. During that time, the scholar becomes immersed in the host country culture and works with the host institution. On my assignment, I'll be at the University of Cape Town in Cape Town, South Africa for six weeks. I'll teach a few workshops for graduate students, I'll help finalize curriculum and hire faculty for a new program, and direct graduate research.
I'm excited and nervous at the same time. There is so much to do before that plane leaves in just 15 days! Well, at least I have my passport, I've gotten my shots and I've booked my flights and housing. What else is there? Oh. Right. I need to submit grades by midnight on Monday, keep up with my two online classes, finalize a proposal, buy travelers checks (does anyone really do that anymore?), buy electrical adapters, review a manuscript, figure out how to text/email/call from my mobile phone while abroad, buy some comfortable clothes and shoes for walking, pick up anti-malarial meds (oh yes, I AM going on safari!), re-read a few research papers related to the project, take the dog to the kennel, order new eyeglasses and . . . um . . . what else was there? That's it! PACK!
I guess the nervousness comes from all that I have to do in a short amount of time. What if I forget something important? It's not like when I visit my parents and figure I can always borrow or purchase whatever I've forgotten. It's not like an overnight business trip when you can improvise for a short period of time. SIX WEEKS is a long time (to me at least)! The other part is being away from home for so long. I'm not exactly adventurous by nature. I like routines. I don't like surprises (unless they are shiny and come in small boxes). What if I become ill? That always seems to happen at the wrong times! What if I get homesick? Ok. Ok. I'm starting to freak myself out a little bit.
Let's think about the exciting part. I get to go to AFRICA! How cool is that? I'll probably have to sleep for a week when I return because I have so much sightseeing that I want to pack into my free time. My top three destinations:
- Robben Island: It's kind of like South African Alcatraz and has historical significance due to Nelson Mandela's imprisonment there from 1964 to 1990.
- The Cape of Good Hope: nearly the southernmost point in Africa, this is where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet but is also home to some pretty amazing wildlife.
- The Winelands: This area is also famous for some pretty fantastic wineries. I'm hoping to catch a wine tour (or two or three) and sample the local flavor.
Of course, this isn't a vacation. I've got work to do. The best part of all, is that I'm truly excited about the work. I get to be a part of something new and exciting. The University of Cape Town (UCT) has just recently launched the African Institute of Financial Markets and Risk Management (AIFMRM). This institute will address needs in the African business community by training Africans to take financial roles in African firms and slow the 'brain drain' that South Africa now experiences in this area. To do this, I (along with a team of others from UCT and Georgia State University) will be interviewing/surveying local executives to determine their needs and gaps in their own knowledge. This information will help UCT design curriculum, programs and research agendas geared toward meeting those specific needs. As a western-trained academic, my role is to infuse western teachings and practices to aid in creating a global perspective for the new institute as well as simply providing more expertise and 'manpower'. It's truly an honor to be part of this project. I find great fulfillment in being a part of projects that have a practical application -- that is, those where there is a clear and immediate impact on the community.
I guess when you're doing what you love and can focus on the true purpose of your travels, the fear melts away!
