Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

So much more than just dancing... Past Review

By (Dance education, Radford University) - abroad from 06/18/2014 to 07/10/2014 with

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

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Understanding for the way other cultures live. Understanding of the function of dance in their society.

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 program is entirely what you make it. Being fully immersed in a culture means there is a lot to take in at one time. In hindsight, there are many things I wish I had thought to gather information while on the trip, but there are many resources still available to you upon return.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The Dagbe staff did everything to make sure we had a well-rounded cultural experience.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The Afia was wonderful, Dagbe was charming and comfortable, and the Anamabo was stunningly beautiful.

* Food:

Delicious overall! I find myself missing certain dishes. Be ready for two meals a day to be at least a little spicy...I enjoy spicy food but only on occasional instances. It took a little getting used to having it every single day. Options for all dietary needs.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Short of physically living in a village dwelling, we got the complete experience of Kopeyia. Children always in and out of the Dagbe grounds, trips to the village bar, and outings to local markets.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

No one on the trip needed serious medical attention. The trip leader (and fellow group members!) kept close tabs on our health, especially when experiencing routine travel illnesses/discomforts.

* Safety:

I never felt like I was in danger. Heed the necessary precautions and you will be fine.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? <$50 USD per week
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Haggle at the market! Be frugal at the hotels for meals-try the signature dishes but don't order lobster every night. Minimize alcoholic drinks-not only do they cost more, they dehydrate you!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • lots of dancing
  • very well organized
* What could be improved?
  • n/a
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Don't hesitate to do or buy anything....squeeze every last drop you can out of the trip!

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!