"This culture/place is incredible and so different from the United States. Being (in Mali) has helped me identify who I am as a person and artist. It was wonderfully challenging and we all grew from this experience. "
- Michael Liang, University of Michigan

"It’s challenging in really unexpected ways, and so eye-opening. I’ve become more independent, a better listener, a better communicator, a wiser person. I’m learning to find and pursue my education."
- Katelyn Orr, Goucher College

“My homestay family was extremely generous and lovely – they enjoyed meeting other students and took really great care of us.” – Becky Fenton, Miami University ."
- Becky Fenton, Miami University

“Oumou was a wonderful language teacher and spirit. I feel that my Bamanankan improvement was remarkable, and I was quite comfortable speaking with people and accomplishing basic goals in Bamanankan. It was a great experience.”
- Shea Witzberger, Antioch College

“The on-site instructors, from dance, to traditional cloth-dyeing, to music, etc. were absolutely fantastic, both in their instruction and in their patience.”
– Jacob Elias, University of Oregon

“Mali is the most richly cultured country I’ve ever seen and everyone could benefit from spending time there.”
– Eric Herman

“My experience on the apprenticeship has inspired me to think of returning to Mali, perhaps on a Fullbright.”
– Emily Harris, Carleton College

“My apprenticeship supervisor has a vast knowledge of the musical material he was teaching me and taught me not only the material, but how to learn in a more traditional Malian way. I know that contact with him will last for longer than just the duration of the program.”
– Jacob Elias, University of Oregon

“The culture of Mali is so vibrant and artistically inspiring it deserves to be studied and shared.”
– Lee Rainboth, Iowa State University

“I had the unique opportunity of spending my days with a group of photographers who were around my age. We awoke before the sun rose and worked until after it set. I learned an incredible work ethic.”
– Stephanie Slattery, Eastern Michigan University

“My apprenticeship . . . making jewelry with a Dogon blacksmith was amazing! I loved it!”
– Jamila Hunter, Antioch College