Spending and Saving: Frugal spending is key both before you go, and while you are in Kenya. Make a budget for yourself and stick to it. Before you go, you may want to budget your spending by giving up that morning cup of coffee you buy on your way to work/class. Instead, you could make your own coffee at home, and bring your lunch with you rather than buying it every day. You may have to eat out less and give up going out as frequently. You could take the bus instead of paying to fill up your car, and you might even start clipping coupons.
Class Size: Depending on how you learn best as a student, you will want to choose a program with smaller or larger class size. As a student, you may enjoy smaller class sizes because of the personal attention you receive. Also, if you are a beginning–level Swahili learner, you may appreciate the extra help that smaller classes can provide. On the other hand, you may be comfortable and accustomed to larger classes in which you have more independent study time. You may enjoy a larger class setting where you may come in contact with more students. Ask your study abroad program coordinator what the average class size tends to be for the subjects you will take in Kenya.
Class Dynamics: Ask yourself whether or not you prefer sitting next to a Kenyan or another U.S. student in your classes. The answer to this question will help you determine whether or not you would like to be in classes with only other U.S. students, a mix of Kenyan and U.S. students, or a class where the majority of the students are Kenyan. Some programs offer courses where a student can be fully immersed in the Kenyan education system by attending class with regular students at a university/institution. Other programs separate students by designing special courses for program participants. Inquire as to which classes you are able to take as part of your program. Also ask whether or not your teachers will be from the United States or Kenya, if this matters to you.
Language Instructions: Even if you have minimal or no prior Swahili language experience, you can still find a program to suit your personal needs. Ask if your program offers Swahili for all levels, including beginner level instruction. If not, you may be able to take some classes in English. However, you may prefer to take all of your classes in Swahili—after all, it is the official language of Kenya. The more classes you take in Swahili, the more your Swahili will improve and the more immersed you will feel in Kenyan culture and society. Ask if your program provides classes in Swahili, English or both.
Goals: Everyone chooses to study abroad for different reasons. You may want to learn or improve your Swahili. You may want to conduct independent research. You may want to pursue a degree, or you may just want to travel and get away. Before choosing a program, see if it fits the personal goals and objectives you have. Ask yourself if the program you choose will allow you to accomplish what you have in mind.