Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Studying Abroad in Ghana: A Life Changing Experience Past Review

By (Music - Jazz Studied, Westfield State College) for

ThisWorldMusic: Traveling - Study in Ghana: Music, Arts, Culture

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned more about life in different countries. I had never left the U.S. before this trip and I was a little nervous to go on the trip. The trip turned out to be everything I hoped and more. This trip has made me a better musician and a better person. After going on this trip I am now considering going to graduate school to study world music. My return to Ghana is certain!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

This was truly an amazing experience for me. Education was very hands on and actively involved every student on the trip. Group lessons were taught as well as private lessons, adapting to any individuals needs. Found myself learning throughout the entire trip, I found just being in a foreign country very educational.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Each hotel we stayed at was very nice. Our living situation at the Dagbe Cultural Center was dorm-like, something I was very used to. While our our living quarters were missing some of the things we may be accustomed to, I found it to be nice and refreshing to "unplug" a little bit. Our program size was great, eighteen people. This left us plenty of time to do both group lessons and individual. My expectations were met completely.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I felt safe throughout my stay in Ghana. Class was on site, a 30 second walk from my room. All the night life you need is right in the village walls as well.

* Food:

Food was a concern of mine heading into the trip but I was pleased with the food throughout. The food at the hotels was really good, lots of options. The food at the cultural center was limited in selection but I enjoyed it. The pineapples were amazing at the center! Never tasted fruit so good!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We had several outings that were non educational but I found myself learning at each stop. Our trip to the Kakum Rainforest was something that I'll never forget. We also visited the Cape Coast Castle, which was also breathtaking and educational.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Health issues were addressed throughly during our orientation, filling everyone in on what they needed long before the plane took off. Vaccines were needed as well as some medications were recommended. As far as I know, there were no health or safety issues throughout our stay in Ghana.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* 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)

Language

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • How it actively involved me in what I learned.
  • Getting a taste for life in both the capitol and a more rural setting.
* What could be improved?
  • An option for a longer trip!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Do it! I am already planning my return to Ghana through the same program. Any person looking to broaden their horizons should go on this trip. I strongly recommend this trip to any musician or dancer.