I Left My Heart in Ghana: A Rewarding Change in Perspective. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I think that it was hard to write a sophisticated report without the guidance of a mentor in my major. While the instructor was available for help, it seemed that if the program was meant for any major to participate, more collaboration should go into the student's placement within the host organization with an advisor from the student's department.

On-site administration of your program

I did not feel comfortable building a relationship with the adminisrator because she seemed more interested in students within her discipline; I think she did well in planning the trip, but academically, I learned more while I was not under her direct supervision, such as when we would have free time to travel about the city freely. I feel that I got a lot of hands-on training for job implementation.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

There were no cookware, and only one sheet to cover with at first; the hostel provided what we needed, if we asked for it. Student should be advised to bring towels, a VISA card or cash, and shoes to shower in. Students should bring a bowl or plate or coffee cup as these are not available from the hostel unless requested.

I learned to love eating chicken and rice. American food is hard to find and expensive. I never went hungry and the grocery store was a nice way to provide variety in snacks and light meals. Students should be aware that food is spicy and sometimes does not agree well with light stomachs. Also the chicken is primarily dark meat and beef is no where near similar to American beef (it is usually goat meat anyway). Students can guy food at Shoprite in Accra Mall. It is not advisable to leave food out in the room at the hostel because there are ants and roaches in the room at times.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Loved Dodi Island on Volta Lake and Maranatha Estuary in Ada Foah. Cape Coast castles were fun but the tours were too long. Kakum National Park is amazing; more time should be focused on outdoor activities here. I also enjoyed the freedom of relaxation at the Bush Canteen on Legon campus.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Accra is safe if you are clearly in a group and not wandering around alone in an unfamilar place. Ghanaian men are very quick to approach American women and females should not be scared to be speak up and tell them to not be inappropriate or touch you in a way that makes her feel uncomfortable. Students should know

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

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• Hostel

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