Since my first week in Zambia, my perception of everything was very different. I was very hopeful to do a lot of work, and learn more about office life. I learned that things were more similar to what I was used to. The work was not as high-paced as I expected which was refreshing from the fast pace at college. When arriving in Lusaka, my understanding of Zambian culture and history was little to none, but I learned so much from the people around me. Although I knew how pervasive the impact colonization had on numerous spaces, I learned more about the impact it had on Zambia itself and its economy. 

Although I did not get the work experience I expected, I learned a great deal about making my own schedule and connections. I focused a lot on taking initiative for myself and my research. As the project wrapped up, I felt fairly unfinished. There were a lot of loose ends in my understanding of small businesses in Zambia and I found myself scrambling to provide as much information to the next person working on the project. I think I found the value in understanding that research is an unfinished business. Even when you discover new information, there will be more questions left unanswered. Research is a scary practice, as you will never figure out everything you want to know but I learned that there is comfort in knowing that work that I was involved in can lead to so much more. 

I think I will miss the people and the food the most. People in Zambia are so kind and friendly which is a large juxtaposition from the New York culture. I will miss nshima and all the foods that it was paired with it. I hope to stay connected to my host family and my co-workers through social media and emails. I am very appreciative of the experience I had and proud of the work I could accomplish.