Ghana: Just Do It Past Review
By Bryan B (Music Education, Gordon College) for
ThisWorldMusic: Traveling - Study in Ghana: Music, Arts, Culture
This program was more than anything I could have imagined. You will learn so much from this trip, not only about Ewe music and culture, but also about yourself and how our world is so different from theirs.
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. |
2 hours of drum instruction and 2 hours of dance instruction each day with options for private lessons. Teaching was done in oral/aural tradition. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Dagbe provided a structured and friendly learning environment. Teachers were always willing to provide additional instruction. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Basic accommodations. Bed with mosquito net provided. Showers and dining room located in dorm complex. Bathrooms are a short walk away. |
| * Food: |
The women provided three delicious meals daily that usually included a fruit, protein, and a starch or grain. Very suitable for vegetarians. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Besides instruction in music instructors would lead us on trips to the local markets, soccer field, beach, and even a funeral. These trips further enhanced the cultural experience of the program. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Overall, a very safe trip. The village of Kopeyia was extremely safe and welcoming. More awareness in needed in Accra. Yellow fever vaccination needed. |
| 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 did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | The best way to learn about West African musical traditions. People of all ages and abilities will find this a life changing experience! |
