CIEE Legon taught me the importance of flexibility and laughter. Past Review
By Alexis B (International Communication, Texas Christian University) for
CIEE: Legon - Arts + Sciences
My experience abroad led to a career in International Studies and a deep passion for Study Abroad. I am now the Study Abroad Coordinator for my home institution and know that my career path was directly influenced by how incredible my experience was in Ghana.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The University is impressive considering the universities found in other parts of West Africa, but coming from a private U.S. institution, the coursework was mundane and disapointing for the most part. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
CIEE's staff members, Janet and Abena were incredible. They made all the students feel like they had a home in Ghana. We rarely saw the Center Director. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I highly recommend living in ISH. Pentagon was disapointing for most students living there. |
| * Food: |
Ghanaian food is fantastic (if you're open to it). Eat as much fresh fruit (I recommend freezing cut papaya and eating it as a popsicle), jolof rice, kelewele and palava sauce as you can. You'll miss it when you come home. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Living in Ghana was a life changing experience. The people, the culture, the sights the sounds... it was everything I hoped it would be. The people made the experience what it was. Most Ghanaians I had the pleasure of knowing were open, friendly and more than willing to help you in any way possible. Beware cabbies and tro tro mates on occasion, they see an American and prices sky rocket. Also, unwanted male attention is common, so learn how to deal with it personally EARLY if you are going to be a social woman. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
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| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
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Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Know what you are getting into. This program is not for students who want to be comfortable and know what's going on. Between the cold showers, Twi and miles of walking - it is a challenge to say the least. I say that with enthousiasm because that is exactly what I was looking for - a challenge. If that is not what you are looking for - do not sign up for this program. |
Individual Course Reviews
| Course Name/Rating: |
History of the Black Diaspora |
| Course Department: | HIST |
| Instructor: | Dr. Baku |
| Instruction Language: | English |
| Comments: | This course was my saving grace while I studied in Ghana. It was always interesting and the professor was fabulous. I highly recommend taking anything taught by Dr. Baku if you are looking for a class more similar to classes taken in the States. |
| Credit Transfer Issues: |
