Ghana was Awesome! Couldn't have gone better! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I learned more about African Drumming and Dance than I ever could in the US! Being immersed in the culture of Ghana, living in an African village and learning drumming, dance, batik, kente weaving, basket weaving, etc. directly from the Africans was a life changing experience. The classes were challenging, but the Africans made you think and learn the way they learned. The approach challenged me as a teacher to see things through my students' eyes and to learn the arts in a more authentic way. The private lessons were always the best way to explore individual ideas and relearn missed material in the classes. The final performance was an experience I will always treasure.

On-site administration of your program

Jeremy Cohen was an awesome leader. He was available for discussion and explanation, but did not force the team to have conversations we weren't ready for. He was great about facilitating the details and keeping the team on par with the objectives of the trip. He's very personable and really cares about the members of the team. He was very careful about any health concerns and worked hard to take care of any issues that came up. It was a perfect size team with enough people to learn the dance and really pull off a performance, but not too many that you would get lost in the crowd.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Housing was dorm style, but in the Kopeyia village. The villagers were very respectful of our privacy and the building was very secure. We brought everything we needed and were given a good list from Jeremy for what to bring.

The food was great! The Ghanians prepared and served our meals. They were good about variety and provided very clean and well prepared food. They even showed some of the members how they prepared the food.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The outings were really interesting! We got to see a funeral, a real marketplace, Cape Coast Castle, the beach, Kakum National Rainforest (and walked on the rope bridges!) and more! The outings really brought the culture to life!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Safety and Health were top priorities for the team leaders. I got sick a few times (I always do when I go oversees) and the leaders were great about checking on me very regularly and making sure I had exactly what I needed. All safety issues were addressed immediately and were handled well. I never felt unsafe or in danger.

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

Select all that apply

• Dorm
• Other

Select all that apply

• Americans

• Drumming and Dance classes (Group and Private)
• Food!
• Excursions and outings, esp Cape Coast Castle

• Earlier trip that doesn't conflict with school starting