Whoa! So this past week I experienced my first Ghanaian virus'... and I was a little scared! As I fill you in, you will see why! :)
Symptoms:
Upset stomach - from worrying about the outcome of the virus
Nauseous that the virus could potentially not be cured
Complete debilitation - I couldn't manage to get anything to work!
Prognosis:
"A very, very strong virus."
Remedy:
3 hours with lab technician
Ok, so you may be wondering what I have come down with...
But actually, it was my camera and my flash drive that had the virus! Not good when you have two and a half weeks worth of pictures on the camera cards and important documents that would not be good if I lost them, on the flash drive!
On Tuesday, I was getting really fast Internet connection so I decided to try to upload a few pictures, so you could all get a small glimpse of my activities. The upload didn't even work... lol. It wasn't until later though that I realized something was wrong.
But not before I inserted my flash drive into the computer because I needed to send someone a file from it.
After my camera completely stopped taking pictures and had a red and blue error screen on the next day, I started to worry.
I could have kicked myself for not backing up the info on my flash drive before I left, but I didn't really think I would get a virus... I mean, it's never happened in the U.S. LOL
So... It was really frustrating to think I could be losing all of that!
But today I went to the mall to see if they could help me out. There was a small camera shop there. And thankfully! They were able to! The guy was able to recover all the pictures and documents and I had him burn them to a CD for a back up copy. He was able to get rid of the virus, and I have learned my lesson. DO NOT insert anything into these computers!
You will all just have to wait until I get home! I'm not risking it anymore!
Love ya!
Mel
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
- Planting Technology -
Yesterday (Wednesday) was an awesome day!
A girl from ISEP, Mallory, had been in contact with a girl from California who started her own non-profit organization which operates in Ghana, called Planting Technology (PT). The company gets computers donated from companies in the US and then donates them to schools in small, rural villages/communities who don't have computer labs, etc.
So yesterday, the three of us along with two Ghanaians working with (PT) went to two high schools to evaluate the schools needs and create a community profile.
The first school was in Agogo and had about 600 students in the high school. There was ONE operating computer for all of the students to use.
The next school was in Somanya and there were about 10 working computers for 2000 students. The class sizes were so big for the computer class though, that six students were sitting behind one computer trying to learn computing skills.
Computer education is now "required" in Ghanaian high schools, so most of the time teachers will draw pictures on the board and teach them like that. The first time these students ever touch a computer is in high school, where Americans begin in kindergarten and before.
The schools obviously didn't have Internet access.. they didn't even have running water.
Mallory and I will be working with PT this semester as "interns". We will be writing reports and going back to the communities on our own to do more assessments for their board members. Andrea was excited after I told her my major and said she would let me write the press releases and take care of the media aspect as much as possible.
Andrea is such and amazing person! She studied abroad in Ghana while she was in college, and has now returned with her own Non profit organization. She is also an amazing resource. She has a Ghanaian friend who works at MetroTV in Ghana, and she gave me his phone number, so soon I will give him a call and hopefully shadow him in order to see how the media works in Ghana. Something interesting about the media though is that in order for Andrea's events to be published in the newspaper or broadcast in the news, she must PAY them! It's not a public service so much as a lucrative business for the reporter and photographer.
Ok. Well, that's enough for now. I will keep everyone posted.
Mel
A girl from ISEP, Mallory, had been in contact with a girl from California who started her own non-profit organization which operates in Ghana, called Planting Technology (PT). The company gets computers donated from companies in the US and then donates them to schools in small, rural villages/communities who don't have computer labs, etc.
So yesterday, the three of us along with two Ghanaians working with (PT) went to two high schools to evaluate the schools needs and create a community profile.
The first school was in Agogo and had about 600 students in the high school. There was ONE operating computer for all of the students to use.
The next school was in Somanya and there were about 10 working computers for 2000 students. The class sizes were so big for the computer class though, that six students were sitting behind one computer trying to learn computing skills.
Computer education is now "required" in Ghanaian high schools, so most of the time teachers will draw pictures on the board and teach them like that. The first time these students ever touch a computer is in high school, where Americans begin in kindergarten and before.
The schools obviously didn't have Internet access.. they didn't even have running water.
Mallory and I will be working with PT this semester as "interns". We will be writing reports and going back to the communities on our own to do more assessments for their board members. Andrea was excited after I told her my major and said she would let me write the press releases and take care of the media aspect as much as possible.
Andrea is such and amazing person! She studied abroad in Ghana while she was in college, and has now returned with her own Non profit organization. She is also an amazing resource. She has a Ghanaian friend who works at MetroTV in Ghana, and she gave me his phone number, so soon I will give him a call and hopefully shadow him in order to see how the media works in Ghana. Something interesting about the media though is that in order for Andrea's events to be published in the newspaper or broadcast in the news, she must PAY them! It's not a public service so much as a lucrative business for the reporter and photographer.
Ok. Well, that's enough for now. I will keep everyone posted.
Mel
School Daze
This past weekend I was anxiously awaiting my first classes at the University of Ghana to begin. I was ready to get in the swing of things and figure out a routine.
Not sure exactly of what classes I wanted to take, I went to all the ones that I was interested in to "audit" them before registering.
My first classes caught me by surprise by the teaching style and classroom environment, but I have come to realize that's just how they do it here.
My first class was a political science course called Ghana's Foreign Policy. While the lecturer was actually on time (always a plus in Ghana, and at times a rarity) the lecture hall was huge. I would estimate more than 300 people. There was a disarray of chairs scatterer across the room. Plastic, wooden, steel, some with writing tables, some without. Students just started moving the chairs around, I guess so they could get the chair and position they wanted...
The lecturer used a microphone, which was cutting in and out and was static-y for half the class, so it was hard to understand him at times. What really took me by surprise was the "teaching" that took place. The lecturer stood at the front of the class and literally read from a piece of paper while we copied down word for word what he said. There was absolutely no discussion or analysis of the material presented. There was no powerpoint or hand out so we could visually see the info presented. To me, it really didn't seem effective at all...Just two straight hours of note taking, without any comprehension.
The next class I went to -Conflict and Society in Africa - the professor didn't show up... for the second week in a row. So after a half hour, nearly 300 students left the lecture hall. I was hoping the lecturer would come though because it seemed like an interesting class... There's always next week I guess.. LOL.
My third class for the day was the Media and Society class. This class was definitely more rowdy than the first class. At times it seemed like the professor lost control of the class... so I just sat back and laughed to myself.
A cultural thing here in Ghana is that to get someone's attention a person will hiss at you. So the professor kept doing this... over the microphone. I quickly realized that being hissed at is not something I enjoy. Everyone does it though... so I better get use to it. Another way to get a person's attention is to make the smooching noise with your mouth. A simple, Hey would be just fine, thanks! Haha.
On Tuesday I went to 10 hours of class with only a 2 hour break in between. It was a lot! But every Tuesday won't be like that. I was just seeing a lot of classes. Classes are normally held once a week for two hours at a time.
Next week sometime I need to decide and register for my final two classes I want to take.
This weekend ISEP has a planned trip to Cape Coast and the Kakum Rainforest, so I will make sure to fill everyone in on that!
Have a good weekend!
Mel
Not sure exactly of what classes I wanted to take, I went to all the ones that I was interested in to "audit" them before registering.
My first classes caught me by surprise by the teaching style and classroom environment, but I have come to realize that's just how they do it here.
My first class was a political science course called Ghana's Foreign Policy. While the lecturer was actually on time (always a plus in Ghana, and at times a rarity) the lecture hall was huge. I would estimate more than 300 people. There was a disarray of chairs scatterer across the room. Plastic, wooden, steel, some with writing tables, some without. Students just started moving the chairs around, I guess so they could get the chair and position they wanted...
The lecturer used a microphone, which was cutting in and out and was static-y for half the class, so it was hard to understand him at times. What really took me by surprise was the "teaching" that took place. The lecturer stood at the front of the class and literally read from a piece of paper while we copied down word for word what he said. There was absolutely no discussion or analysis of the material presented. There was no powerpoint or hand out so we could visually see the info presented. To me, it really didn't seem effective at all...Just two straight hours of note taking, without any comprehension.
The next class I went to -Conflict and Society in Africa - the professor didn't show up... for the second week in a row. So after a half hour, nearly 300 students left the lecture hall. I was hoping the lecturer would come though because it seemed like an interesting class... There's always next week I guess.. LOL.
My third class for the day was the Media and Society class. This class was definitely more rowdy than the first class. At times it seemed like the professor lost control of the class... so I just sat back and laughed to myself.
A cultural thing here in Ghana is that to get someone's attention a person will hiss at you. So the professor kept doing this... over the microphone. I quickly realized that being hissed at is not something I enjoy. Everyone does it though... so I better get use to it. Another way to get a person's attention is to make the smooching noise with your mouth. A simple, Hey would be just fine, thanks! Haha.
On Tuesday I went to 10 hours of class with only a 2 hour break in between. It was a lot! But every Tuesday won't be like that. I was just seeing a lot of classes. Classes are normally held once a week for two hours at a time.
Next week sometime I need to decide and register for my final two classes I want to take.
This weekend ISEP has a planned trip to Cape Coast and the Kakum Rainforest, so I will make sure to fill everyone in on that!
Have a good weekend!
Mel
Gourmet Ghana...kinda :)
So I've had a few requests to explain the food here in Ghana... and I've held off until I have been able to try a few more of the traditional dishes.
Rice is a main staple in many Ghanaian diets, so I guess it's convenient that there's a variety... There's jollof rice, fried rice, plain rice, chicken n rice, rice with sauce, and just about anything else you can think of... include rice, and whala.. it's a meal!
Red red is a traditional dish that I now enjoy. (The first time I ate it, I was a little skeptical, but maybe because I saw it being made! Haha! I've learned it's better to avoid see that process whenever possible!) It's a bean mixture, kind of like a bean soup... but thicker, served with a couple of fried plantains. They will add cornmeal and hot sauce to it also. The first time I ate it, it was hard to get it down, but on a second try, I added RICE to it, of course, and it was better.
The first time I ate it, the woman who was making it was also eating her own meal... with her hands, and then picked up the plantains with her hands and put them in. I've mentioned before the lack of sanitation there is, but hey, I guess whatever works.
Then yesterday, I had the opportunity to try fufu! My Twi professor told us that in Ghana there are only two foods. Fufu and then everything else. There was a lot of hype over this dish, as almost all Ghanaians rave about it, so I was excited to try it.
There is a dough ball, literally dough... not cooked or anything... so soft and mushy. It is pounded and can be made with casavah, kinda like a potato, or plantains. (I actually helped pound it yesterday! And it's a touch job! The guy was using one hand on a long wooded pounder... lol. I had to use two, and couldn't even get to the bottom of the bowl, like he was. Needless to say, he has great job security in this case. I won't be applying anytime soon! :) I got pictures of the pounding too, but unfortunately I really won't be able to put any pictures on until I get home.
So the fufu ball is put into soup. Yesterday we had a ground nut and palm oil soup, I think... with a piece of meat in in. Goat...
There is a water bowl at the table where you wash your hand, and then use your hand to tear off a piece of the fufu ball, dip it in soup, and then swallow it. Don't chew! Sadly to say, I'm not a big fan of fufu, and won't be ordering it for myself in the near future.
The locally grown pineapple is amazing... and usually a daily part of my diet. It's always readily available at the night market and a big hit.
Something else that is popular is egg sandwiches. Always nice when you need something "American". Haha.
That's all for now. I will continue to fill you in on my food adventures, as there are many more traditional dishes that I still have to try... but I will have a back-up just in case it's like the fufu. Haha.
Have a good day!
Mel
Rice is a main staple in many Ghanaian diets, so I guess it's convenient that there's a variety... There's jollof rice, fried rice, plain rice, chicken n rice, rice with sauce, and just about anything else you can think of... include rice, and whala.. it's a meal!
Red red is a traditional dish that I now enjoy. (The first time I ate it, I was a little skeptical, but maybe because I saw it being made! Haha! I've learned it's better to avoid see that process whenever possible!) It's a bean mixture, kind of like a bean soup... but thicker, served with a couple of fried plantains. They will add cornmeal and hot sauce to it also. The first time I ate it, it was hard to get it down, but on a second try, I added RICE to it, of course, and it was better.
The first time I ate it, the woman who was making it was also eating her own meal... with her hands, and then picked up the plantains with her hands and put them in. I've mentioned before the lack of sanitation there is, but hey, I guess whatever works.
Then yesterday, I had the opportunity to try fufu! My Twi professor told us that in Ghana there are only two foods. Fufu and then everything else. There was a lot of hype over this dish, as almost all Ghanaians rave about it, so I was excited to try it.
There is a dough ball, literally dough... not cooked or anything... so soft and mushy. It is pounded and can be made with casavah, kinda like a potato, or plantains. (I actually helped pound it yesterday! And it's a touch job! The guy was using one hand on a long wooded pounder... lol. I had to use two, and couldn't even get to the bottom of the bowl, like he was. Needless to say, he has great job security in this case. I won't be applying anytime soon! :) I got pictures of the pounding too, but unfortunately I really won't be able to put any pictures on until I get home.
So the fufu ball is put into soup. Yesterday we had a ground nut and palm oil soup, I think... with a piece of meat in in. Goat...
There is a water bowl at the table where you wash your hand, and then use your hand to tear off a piece of the fufu ball, dip it in soup, and then swallow it. Don't chew! Sadly to say, I'm not a big fan of fufu, and won't be ordering it for myself in the near future.
The locally grown pineapple is amazing... and usually a daily part of my diet. It's always readily available at the night market and a big hit.
Something else that is popular is egg sandwiches. Always nice when you need something "American". Haha.
That's all for now. I will continue to fill you in on my food adventures, as there are many more traditional dishes that I still have to try... but I will have a back-up just in case it's like the fufu. Haha.
Have a good day!
Mel
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Always an adventure in Africa
On Friday, a big group of us got up early to go hiking. At 7 in the morning, we set off. After an hour tro-tro ride to a town called Aburi, we were set for our 8 1/2 mile hike through the "jungles" of Africa. (I'm not really sure it was technically a jungle, but there were trees everywhere, with narrow paths that we followed. Very few human inhabitants, but I will get to that in a sec.)
It was a beautiful day. A little chilly in the morning, but it warmed up with sunshine all day. In order to get to the trail we would be taking, we walked through a small town, called Aburi, where it literally felt like we were on parade. The people were all out in the streets, and we waved to everyone as they walked by, because they were amazed to see that many "obrunis" together. We waved to everyone, and said hello to the Ghanaians countless times. I felt like Miss America... but I sure didn't look like her, with my hiking boots and back pack and all! :)
The children were so happy to see us. Some would run up to us while others would smile shyly and wave from a distance. Even the smallest toddlers would call out the word, obruni. How they learn this at such a small age, I will never know.
Walking through this small town, outside of the capital area where we have been the most, it again gave me a better look at the country, and the poverty in Ghana.
It was amazing because throughout the hike, miles from any main roads were the occasional house / shack with an entire family living there. One family was outside doing chores and what not, and we all immediately started taking pictures, until she told us we had to pay to take their picture. One lady yelled at us, and told us to stop what we were doing, and seemed offended that we would want a picture of the way they lived on a daily basis.
Giselle, (one of the ISEP students who was here last semester) had been on this hike before and was leading the way, until we came upon these two men who said we were going in the wrong direction, and then guided us to a different path. The men were under a little shack with barely any clothes on, and what they did have on were filthy. Before we left though, one insisted that he play us a song on his guitar. It was pretty bad.
But anyway, after we were heading down our new path, Giselle informed us that we were going the right way the first time, but that the men were "rasfatarians" and the reason they didn't want us hiking the way we were going is because they were most likely (pretty much positively) growing drugs back that way and they didn't want us to see, or step on it for that matter. Wow!
The hike was awesome though. About half way in there was a restaurant that we stopped at for lunch. It was great getting off campus and traveling to a town we had never been to before.
Well, hope everyone is having a good day today! And I think about you all often and wish you were here to experience the amazing adventures with me!
Love you all,
Melissa
It was a beautiful day. A little chilly in the morning, but it warmed up with sunshine all day. In order to get to the trail we would be taking, we walked through a small town, called Aburi, where it literally felt like we were on parade. The people were all out in the streets, and we waved to everyone as they walked by, because they were amazed to see that many "obrunis" together. We waved to everyone, and said hello to the Ghanaians countless times. I felt like Miss America... but I sure didn't look like her, with my hiking boots and back pack and all! :)
The children were so happy to see us. Some would run up to us while others would smile shyly and wave from a distance. Even the smallest toddlers would call out the word, obruni. How they learn this at such a small age, I will never know.
Walking through this small town, outside of the capital area where we have been the most, it again gave me a better look at the country, and the poverty in Ghana.
It was amazing because throughout the hike, miles from any main roads were the occasional house / shack with an entire family living there. One family was outside doing chores and what not, and we all immediately started taking pictures, until she told us we had to pay to take their picture. One lady yelled at us, and told us to stop what we were doing, and seemed offended that we would want a picture of the way they lived on a daily basis.
Giselle, (one of the ISEP students who was here last semester) had been on this hike before and was leading the way, until we came upon these two men who said we were going in the wrong direction, and then guided us to a different path. The men were under a little shack with barely any clothes on, and what they did have on were filthy. Before we left though, one insisted that he play us a song on his guitar. It was pretty bad.
But anyway, after we were heading down our new path, Giselle informed us that we were going the right way the first time, but that the men were "rasfatarians" and the reason they didn't want us hiking the way we were going is because they were most likely (pretty much positively) growing drugs back that way and they didn't want us to see, or step on it for that matter. Wow!
The hike was awesome though. About half way in there was a restaurant that we stopped at for lunch. It was great getting off campus and traveling to a town we had never been to before.
Well, hope everyone is having a good day today! And I think about you all often and wish you were here to experience the amazing adventures with me!
Love you all,
Melissa
Just call me Maytag! :)
Yep, that's right. My clothes are hanging on the line outside to dry as we speak!
Today I washed my clothes by hand for the first time! Such an accomplishment.
My mom doesn't even think I know how to push a few buttons on a washing machine, but heck, I was efficient! :)
Whether they will be clean or not... now that's a different story.
I'm kinda nervous to say that it really wasn't that bad!
In ISH II they do have laundry facilities which cost one cedi per kilo, so if I ever get desperate, than at least there is another option.
- - -
Today we are all going to a "durbar" hosted by the university for all the international students. From what I understand, it is a kind of festival to kick off the school year.
This morning I went to EcoBank which is near campus and set up a bank account! I felt so independent! LOL Which is good, since I'm half way across the world, and can't call Mom to ask all the banking questions I have.
Today is Saturday... so that means I will be calling home today! So talk to ya soon, fam. I'll wait a little while though, because I'm sure you don't want to be woken up at 7 in the morning on your day off to chat on the phone with me! :)
Love you all,
Mel
Today I washed my clothes by hand for the first time! Such an accomplishment.
My mom doesn't even think I know how to push a few buttons on a washing machine, but heck, I was efficient! :)
Whether they will be clean or not... now that's a different story.
I'm kinda nervous to say that it really wasn't that bad!
In ISH II they do have laundry facilities which cost one cedi per kilo, so if I ever get desperate, than at least there is another option.
- - -
Today we are all going to a "durbar" hosted by the university for all the international students. From what I understand, it is a kind of festival to kick off the school year.
This morning I went to EcoBank which is near campus and set up a bank account! I felt so independent! LOL Which is good, since I'm half way across the world, and can't call Mom to ask all the banking questions I have.
Today is Saturday... so that means I will be calling home today! So talk to ya soon, fam. I'll wait a little while though, because I'm sure you don't want to be woken up at 7 in the morning on your day off to chat on the phone with me! :)
Love you all,
Mel
Thursday, January 22, 2009
University of Ghana... Education Redefined!?
So today is Thursday.
Classes were suppose to start on Monday.
I have been to one class.
An African drumming class! Haha
- - -
Choosing and registering for classes here is done very differently than in the United States.
Each department posts their class listings and the times for the classes outside their department buildings individually.
Classes were suppose to start on Monday, and some of the departments didn't even have the time tables up yet...
Then, when people did go to class, 4 out of 5 times, the professor wouldn't even show up. It's kind of an accepted fact for the Ghanaians, but a little hard to grasp for the Americans who are expected to show up and be ready to take notes and get their first homework assignment on the first day!
Another thing, just because the course is in the handbook doesn't mean that the class will be offered... so that made me reconsider the classes I wanted to take.
- - -
So far I have registered for two classes. An African drumming class for the international students, which actually met, and I've already learned some beats, (can't wait to share my new found talents with everyone when I get home), and a Media and Society class. I'm really excited about the media class and am hoping it will be interesting and beneficial.
I have a few other classes picked out, but people suggest going to the class at least once before registering for it, because sometimes what the course description says and what the class is about are two completely different things.
So far, I don't have classes scheduled on Wednesdays, because I want to keep that day open to volunteer, and I don't have classes on Fridays, which will help when I start traveling.
But that could all change!
When I registered for those two classes, there was no luxury of online course registration. I walked to the different departments and then filled out a paper, signed my name in a book, and attached a passport sized picture.
Although it seems so different than the American system, it gets the job done, and is obviously working for the university, as this is how they've done it for years.
That's all for now!
Mel
Classes were suppose to start on Monday.
I have been to one class.
An African drumming class! Haha
- - -
Choosing and registering for classes here is done very differently than in the United States.
Each department posts their class listings and the times for the classes outside their department buildings individually.
Classes were suppose to start on Monday, and some of the departments didn't even have the time tables up yet...
Then, when people did go to class, 4 out of 5 times, the professor wouldn't even show up. It's kind of an accepted fact for the Ghanaians, but a little hard to grasp for the Americans who are expected to show up and be ready to take notes and get their first homework assignment on the first day!
Another thing, just because the course is in the handbook doesn't mean that the class will be offered... so that made me reconsider the classes I wanted to take.
- - -
So far I have registered for two classes. An African drumming class for the international students, which actually met, and I've already learned some beats, (can't wait to share my new found talents with everyone when I get home), and a Media and Society class. I'm really excited about the media class and am hoping it will be interesting and beneficial.
I have a few other classes picked out, but people suggest going to the class at least once before registering for it, because sometimes what the course description says and what the class is about are two completely different things.
So far, I don't have classes scheduled on Wednesdays, because I want to keep that day open to volunteer, and I don't have classes on Fridays, which will help when I start traveling.
But that could all change!
When I registered for those two classes, there was no luxury of online course registration. I walked to the different departments and then filled out a paper, signed my name in a book, and attached a passport sized picture.
Although it seems so different than the American system, it gets the job done, and is obviously working for the university, as this is how they've done it for years.
That's all for now!
Mel
Ghanaians and Barack H. Obama
While I'm sure January 20th, 2009 is a day many Americans will never forget, I can almost positively say that Ghanaians will never forget the inauguration day of the United State's 44th president, Barack Obama, either.
I was already aware that Ghanaians love Barack Obama and the U.S. for that matter, but watching the inauguration speech with more than 500 Ghanaians was a surreal moment, and really put things into perspective, and helped me realize the great country I come from, regardless if the economy is suffering at the present time.
On Tuesday, our entire ISEP group went to the W.E.B. DuBois center, where I would compare the event to somewhat of an Obama rally. People were dressed in Obama outfits (literally! they made clothes from material that had Obama's face all over it), Ghanaians were waving American flags, and what really gave me chills... at the end, everyone stood up to sing the Star Spangled Banner, and the Ghanaians sang along! They knew the words to our national anthem.
A girl's school brought their student's to the event to watch the historic day. This was only one venue of many in the city, that were hosting viewings of the speech just like this one.
During orientation week, I was talking to one of our Ghanaians guides and she was talking about how during the election period of the United State's president, you couldn't go a street block without seeing something with Obama on it or someone trying to sell you something about Obama. Being the first black president in the United States, he truly is an icon for Ghanaians, and they are hoping for great things, as are the Americans.
I was already aware that Ghanaians love Barack Obama and the U.S. for that matter, but watching the inauguration speech with more than 500 Ghanaians was a surreal moment, and really put things into perspective, and helped me realize the great country I come from, regardless if the economy is suffering at the present time.
On Tuesday, our entire ISEP group went to the W.E.B. DuBois center, where I would compare the event to somewhat of an Obama rally. People were dressed in Obama outfits (literally! they made clothes from material that had Obama's face all over it), Ghanaians were waving American flags, and what really gave me chills... at the end, everyone stood up to sing the Star Spangled Banner, and the Ghanaians sang along! They knew the words to our national anthem.
A girl's school brought their student's to the event to watch the historic day. This was only one venue of many in the city, that were hosting viewings of the speech just like this one.
During orientation week, I was talking to one of our Ghanaians guides and she was talking about how during the election period of the United State's president, you couldn't go a street block without seeing something with Obama on it or someone trying to sell you something about Obama. Being the first black president in the United States, he truly is an icon for Ghanaians, and they are hoping for great things, as are the Americans.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
More Updates
More information for everyone, but let me warn you, the thoughts are somewhat disorganized and sporadic, as I am writing from the notes I have been keeping in my journal.
Right outside the International Student Hostel (ISH) is what is called a night market, even though it operates all day, beginning in the very early morning until late at night. They sell food, fresh fruit, DVD and movies, that haven't even been released yet, other things they know foreigners will need, like clothes hangers, etc. I bought a converter at the night market for one cedi (like the US dollar) and I bought the cheapest one off E-bay before I left (which didn't even come in time) for five dollars.
A lot of the things are very cheap, but some are surprisingly very expensive, mostly things that they know foreigners need and will buy regardless of the price. Before I was came, I was very confused about how the money situation worked. But the other day, I withdrew $1oo Ghana cedis and it only took about $83 US dollars out of my bank account, so that's kind of the exchange rate.
The night market, and all of the markets for that matter can be pretty overwhelming and intimidating. The people are heckling you to buy something from them. They say: Hello, what do you want? Even if you're just walking by. If you make eye contact or even act slightly interested, they will not leave you alone, which is very hard for the average American who likes to browse and then buy what they think they need at the place with the best price. Often it's hard to understand what they are saying, and they try to take advantage of the foreigners who don't know what the actual price should really be!
- - -
While I don't want to get in the game of US Versus THEM, here are some observations I have made about the differences between Ghana and America.
When we were checking into our hostel rooms, we had to sign our names and fill our our personal information in a book. NOT A COMPUTER!
Something that is frustrating with the money situation is that it seems (bad term, and probably an over generalization) that somewhat often vendors don't have change. I've not bought very many things and it has happened several times. How can an operating store, not have change? Are they just taking advantage of us again? It blows my mind.
Even worse, the other day, I went to the BANK to get my one cedi bills made into coins for change so this wouldn't happen again, and that bank sent us to another bank, because they didn't have any coin left. At the second bank we went to, she could only give us 50 pesewa coins (not the 20, 10, 0r 5) because they didn't have those in stock. Wow.
TO THE MARKETS
I've mentioned the night market several times that is right outside our hostel, but the other day, we went to a market in the city, and it was absolutely eye opening. I was fascinated and could have wandered around for hours.
We rode a tro tro there (a beat up old van which packs as many people in as possible, but is very cheap) and that was an experience in itself. The "mate' sits by the door and collects the money, and shouts out where the driver is going. It's hard to understand what they are saying (at least for us "obrunies" the term they (lovingly) use for white person). The mate will say: Ac-cra-cra-cra-cra-cra.. if they are going into Accra.
So anyway, at the market, there were TONS of people! I was shocked to see all the people. This market was very intimidating because they would beckon you to come over and buy from their stand and not the others. If you even start to look at something, they will start in, and they are relentless. If you start to walk away, they will follow you. They will grab your arm and talk about what they are trying to sell.
You are suppose to barter the price at the markets, which is kind of a scary process too. Haha. They know we have no idea what the real price should be.
It was pretty neat to be a white person walking through a crowded market full of Ghanaians. The people in the market were fascinated with us, and we were fascinated with them. They stare and wave, and no doubt call us obrunis as we walk by.
It is absolutely mind boggling to see the 'type' of people at the market and the 'type' of people at the university. Completely different. The people at the market is what people think of when they think of Africa. To me, it's kind of sad, but the people at the market seemed happy, even though they had less.
The most interesting portion of the market was the food part. There would be fish and pigs feet and other meat laying out in the hot son. Flies were all around, and the Ghanaians thought nothing of it. Definitely not as sanitary as US standards.
Poverty is obviously an issue in Ghana and at the market there was a lot of "child labor". Children that were school aged, but didn't go to school because they had to help their families sell at the market. What amazed me is that the police or government doesn't enforce any kind of rules or regulations.
It makes me wonder what kind of life people who sell at the market lead. Are they making somewhat of a profit? Or are they just getting by? Did they grow up as a child laborer and continued the lifestyle? It seems like it would be a hard cycle to beat, since they have little to no education.
Today, (Sunday) a few of the ISEP students went to a Catholic mass with one of the ISEP student's Ghanaian roommate. The Ghanaian was talking about how his parents buy everything for him. Books, clothes, food. I said, "Oh, so your parents help you pay for those things?" He said, "No. They just do it." He couldn't understand how many Americans pay for bills and are becoming more financially independent from their parents at this age. If he couldn't grasp that concept, I wonder about his perception of his fellow Ghanaians who lead the market life...
As for the Catholic mass, it was neat to see. Most of the Ghanaians were dressed in traditional clothing. There was a lot of singing and joyous dancing. It lasted two hours. While a lot of it was hard to understand since it was over a speaker system that wasn't working properly, with thick accents, it was cool when I recognized the same things we do in American Catholic churches.
Anyway, I only have a few more minutes left at this Internet cafe, so that is all for now. I am sooo glad I have been able to update everyone on some of the things I have been encountering.
If there is anything you all would like to know about, or more of, just let me know, and I will do my best to relay the info.
Love you all!
Stay warm!
Mel
Right outside the International Student Hostel (ISH) is what is called a night market, even though it operates all day, beginning in the very early morning until late at night. They sell food, fresh fruit, DVD and movies, that haven't even been released yet, other things they know foreigners will need, like clothes hangers, etc. I bought a converter at the night market for one cedi (like the US dollar) and I bought the cheapest one off E-bay before I left (which didn't even come in time) for five dollars.
A lot of the things are very cheap, but some are surprisingly very expensive, mostly things that they know foreigners need and will buy regardless of the price. Before I was came, I was very confused about how the money situation worked. But the other day, I withdrew $1oo Ghana cedis and it only took about $83 US dollars out of my bank account, so that's kind of the exchange rate.
The night market, and all of the markets for that matter can be pretty overwhelming and intimidating. The people are heckling you to buy something from them. They say: Hello, what do you want? Even if you're just walking by. If you make eye contact or even act slightly interested, they will not leave you alone, which is very hard for the average American who likes to browse and then buy what they think they need at the place with the best price. Often it's hard to understand what they are saying, and they try to take advantage of the foreigners who don't know what the actual price should really be!
- - -
While I don't want to get in the game of US Versus THEM, here are some observations I have made about the differences between Ghana and America.
When we were checking into our hostel rooms, we had to sign our names and fill our our personal information in a book. NOT A COMPUTER!
Something that is frustrating with the money situation is that it seems (bad term, and probably an over generalization) that somewhat often vendors don't have change. I've not bought very many things and it has happened several times. How can an operating store, not have change? Are they just taking advantage of us again? It blows my mind.
Even worse, the other day, I went to the BANK to get my one cedi bills made into coins for change so this wouldn't happen again, and that bank sent us to another bank, because they didn't have any coin left. At the second bank we went to, she could only give us 50 pesewa coins (not the 20, 10, 0r 5) because they didn't have those in stock. Wow.
TO THE MARKETS
I've mentioned the night market several times that is right outside our hostel, but the other day, we went to a market in the city, and it was absolutely eye opening. I was fascinated and could have wandered around for hours.
We rode a tro tro there (a beat up old van which packs as many people in as possible, but is very cheap) and that was an experience in itself. The "mate' sits by the door and collects the money, and shouts out where the driver is going. It's hard to understand what they are saying (at least for us "obrunies" the term they (lovingly) use for white person). The mate will say: Ac-cra-cra-cra-cra-cra.. if they are going into Accra.
So anyway, at the market, there were TONS of people! I was shocked to see all the people. This market was very intimidating because they would beckon you to come over and buy from their stand and not the others. If you even start to look at something, they will start in, and they are relentless. If you start to walk away, they will follow you. They will grab your arm and talk about what they are trying to sell.
You are suppose to barter the price at the markets, which is kind of a scary process too. Haha. They know we have no idea what the real price should be.
It was pretty neat to be a white person walking through a crowded market full of Ghanaians. The people in the market were fascinated with us, and we were fascinated with them. They stare and wave, and no doubt call us obrunis as we walk by.
It is absolutely mind boggling to see the 'type' of people at the market and the 'type' of people at the university. Completely different. The people at the market is what people think of when they think of Africa. To me, it's kind of sad, but the people at the market seemed happy, even though they had less.
The most interesting portion of the market was the food part. There would be fish and pigs feet and other meat laying out in the hot son. Flies were all around, and the Ghanaians thought nothing of it. Definitely not as sanitary as US standards.
Poverty is obviously an issue in Ghana and at the market there was a lot of "child labor". Children that were school aged, but didn't go to school because they had to help their families sell at the market. What amazed me is that the police or government doesn't enforce any kind of rules or regulations.
It makes me wonder what kind of life people who sell at the market lead. Are they making somewhat of a profit? Or are they just getting by? Did they grow up as a child laborer and continued the lifestyle? It seems like it would be a hard cycle to beat, since they have little to no education.
Today, (Sunday) a few of the ISEP students went to a Catholic mass with one of the ISEP student's Ghanaian roommate. The Ghanaian was talking about how his parents buy everything for him. Books, clothes, food. I said, "Oh, so your parents help you pay for those things?" He said, "No. They just do it." He couldn't understand how many Americans pay for bills and are becoming more financially independent from their parents at this age. If he couldn't grasp that concept, I wonder about his perception of his fellow Ghanaians who lead the market life...
As for the Catholic mass, it was neat to see. Most of the Ghanaians were dressed in traditional clothing. There was a lot of singing and joyous dancing. It lasted two hours. While a lot of it was hard to understand since it was over a speaker system that wasn't working properly, with thick accents, it was cool when I recognized the same things we do in American Catholic churches.
Anyway, I only have a few more minutes left at this Internet cafe, so that is all for now. I am sooo glad I have been able to update everyone on some of the things I have been encountering.
If there is anything you all would like to know about, or more of, just let me know, and I will do my best to relay the info.
Love you all!
Stay warm!
Mel
Friday, January 16, 2009
AKWAABA
Hey Everyone!
Hope you all are enjoying the 20 something weather! In Ghana, it's a cool 90 degrees, with high humidity and lots of sunshine! But I love it already. I can tell there are going to be a lot of amazing adventures and life lessons along the way.
Where do I even begin!? There is soooo much I could talk about already!
But |I guess by saying|: It's AMAZING already! |More than anything |I could ever imagine!
And let me just say, I didn't really thing I would experience "culture shock" because I had researched Ghana a little bit, but nothing could have prepared me for what I am seeing now! And not culture shock in a bad way, just like, |Oh my gosh|! | This is amazing!
So far |I haven't had as much |Internet access as |I was anticipating, being on a college campus and all, so sorry I haven't updated my blog since |I've been here. |I am hoping to have more access once classes start because I will have more opportunities to get on a computer. |It's only been five days and |I have already experienced so much, but |I have been keeping a journal, so don't worry, |I will keep you updated on everything. |If there is anything you want to know that |I haven't talked about, make sure you let me know so |I can fill you in.
There are 42 students in this year's ISEP *International Student Exchange Program) group to Ghana, which is the biggest group yet.
- - -
TRAVELING OVERSEAS
Sunday, January 11th, Mom and Dad took me to the Louisville airport. After several hugs and kisses, I was on my way. Through security and sitting by myself at the Delta Airline gate, by myself... But not for long. My Uncle Bill and Aunt Angie were also flying out of Louisville on that same day, and they found me and kept me company while I waited. It was awesome to have a familiar face and even more convenient when my plane got delayed, which meant I was going to miss my second plane in Cincinnati. Uncle Bill and Aunt Angie helped me change my flights so I would be able to make it to New York in time, to continue my journey. Their help was awesome, and I'm sure I would have been freaking out if I had to do it all by myself.
When I got to New York I had to get my baggage all by myself, and frankly, I had no idea where to go. So after asking a few questions, I waited, and they finally came, which was a relief. Ending up in Africa without luggage would not have been fun. So after I got my luggage, I loaded them onto a cart and rode the air train to the International Terminal. I felt so independent, and excited that I was actually on my way.
After checking my luggage back in, I sat down at a table and was watching people, when two girls walked by who looked familiar... They came around again, and asked me if I was going to Ghana! I was, and so were they! So we began talking and before we left, we were feeling more comfortable because we realized, none of us knew what we were getting ourselves into!
We boarded the plane in New York to London at about 11:40 pm. After we were all settled in, the pilot informed us that there was ice on the wings and top, so we would have to wait for the de-icing crew. A few minutes later, he let us know that the entire de-icing crew at JFK International Airport had already gone home, and would have to be called in! A little ironic, but two hours later... we were on our way.
On the flight from London to Ghana, I sat by a Ghanaian, Charles. We talked non-stop for the first half of the plane ride|! |He was awesome! |He worked in government in |Ghana and was very willing to tell me his thoughts about how parts of the government were corrupt and was fascinated that the |United |States had elected Barack |Obama as president. |It was a great start to an awesome trip, I'm sure! |I told him how |I was studying at the |University of |Ghana and what |I planned to do after |I graduate. |My first Ghanaian friend|! |(|Well, second |I guess|! |A ||Ghanaian grad student at |BSU, |Nii, gave me lots of great advice before |I got here, too.|)
To my surprise, Charles stopped by the International Student Hostel the other day to tell the three Americans he sat by on the plane hello. He was on campus for a conference, and I was so excited to see him! Off to a great start.
|AKWAABA
|Finally landing in the airport in |Accra was an amazing feeling. |So exhilarating. |I had finally made it. Even the airport was an adventure!
They informed us several times|: don't let anyone help you with your bags. |Ok. |That's simple enough, |I thought. But it was definitely harder than |I expected. |People surrounded us and helped steered our carts. We thought they were with our ||ISEP \(International \Student |Exchange |Program|) group to help us. |Once we got to our bus, they asked us for money... over and over and over again. ||We kept saying we didn't have any, but they wouldn't go away. Just 5 euros|? ||A cedi|? |It was very overwhelming and caught me completely off guard. |When you tell someone you don't have something in |America, they usually go away. |This did not happen!
|University of |Ghana
White buildings with clay tile roofs are the iconic building of the University of Ghana in Legon, Accra. Lush trees and grass grow everywhere, and dirt paths lead to classrooms and the few main roads.
When I first walked in to my dorm room, I was taken aback by the bare bones furniture and condition it was in. I didn't have high expectations, but wow! After unpacking some of my suitcases, it seems pretty big, and adequate. The Ghanaians lead a very different lifestyle than Americans. The hostel is cool because we all have our own personal balconies. The first morning I was awake at 7 and went outside to sit on my balcony and I was amazed by how many people were out and about. Guys were washing cars, people were going to the market to get breakfast. I've been told that Ghanians get up very early in the morning, probably because it's still cool outside.
I am going to have a Ghanaian roommate, although she still hasn't moved in yet, and classes are suppose to start tomorrow. It's kind of exciting because some of the American students got paired with other American students. This will be just one more learning experience, and I am hoping for the best.
AHH... COLD SHOWERS!
Before I got here, I was a little skeptical about the cold showers, but now that I have experienced them, they are awesome! After long, hot, sweaty days, nothing feels better to watch the dirt run off and stand beneath the cold water to cool down. While I couldn't imagine them in the U.S., they are nice here!
And yes, there is no toilet paper in the hostels, or many of the public restrooms either. So you bring your own, and I have quickly learned to conserve! A little really does go a long way.
SO... I'M GETTING MARRIED
Well, I'm not really getting married, but I've lost count of how many Ghanians have proposed! Haha. Walking by men cutting grass (by hand with machettis on the first day) one of the workers told me he loved me and asked if I would marry him. Thinking this was a little odd, after about the tenth proposal, I have come to realize, that's what they all say! Haha! Pretty humorous, and just one more cultural aspect Ghanaians engage in.
DRESS TO IMPRESS
The Ghanaian college students dress very nicely! Both men and women. Nii tried to explain this to me, but I didn't grasp the concept of just how nice they actually dress. I was shocked. Also, I didn't realize that you will never see a Ghanian woman with a skirt or shorts above her knees. This would have been nice to know before packing, LOL. But our resident advisor informed us that it's a misconception that Ghanaians don't wear shorts, and we should feel free to wear them, which was a relief.
While the Americans are sweating and panting in their shorts and tank tops, it is common to see Ghanaians walking around in hot blue jeans, and it doesn't even seem like they are hot. They gently dab the sweat from their faces with a cloth, while we can dab as much as we'd like, but it will be back in seconds.
FRIENDLY GHANAIANS
While Ghanaians are notorious for being friendly, it really puts things into perspective when they are nice to me personally. We are only suppose to drink bottled water, so the first day, I went into the store to buy a bottle for 40 pesewas (kinda like cents). I gave her 1 cedi (like a dollar). She said that she didn't have any change, so I could just take the water, and bring the money back to her later. Wow! I was pretty blown away. I don't think a similar thing would have happened in the U.S., especially since this is the first time I had ever met her.
Today we went to the beach and a young child was asking people in our group for money. We all told him we didn't have any as we were instructed to do. One girl told him she didn't have any money. The child then told her he was hungry, and she quickly replied that she was hungry too. The child then pulled our a pesewa coin and handed it to her. Wow! I was blown away.
Walking down the streets we will often hear: "Welcome to Ghana. We are so happy to have you here." Ghanaians are so friendly and proud of their country. There have already been so many examples and it will be awesome to experience the many more to come.
Well, I have written so much, trying to catch everyone up on a few of the things I have written down, and I will write again soon to fill you in on all the other amazing things I have already seen.
I love you!
Mel
Hope you all are enjoying the 20 something weather! In Ghana, it's a cool 90 degrees, with high humidity and lots of sunshine! But I love it already. I can tell there are going to be a lot of amazing adventures and life lessons along the way.
Where do I even begin!? There is soooo much I could talk about already!
But |I guess by saying|: It's AMAZING already! |More than anything |I could ever imagine!
And let me just say, I didn't really thing I would experience "culture shock" because I had researched Ghana a little bit, but nothing could have prepared me for what I am seeing now! And not culture shock in a bad way, just like, |Oh my gosh|! | This is amazing!
So far |I haven't had as much |Internet access as |I was anticipating, being on a college campus and all, so sorry I haven't updated my blog since |I've been here. |I am hoping to have more access once classes start because I will have more opportunities to get on a computer. |It's only been five days and |I have already experienced so much, but |I have been keeping a journal, so don't worry, |I will keep you updated on everything. |If there is anything you want to know that |I haven't talked about, make sure you let me know so |I can fill you in.
There are 42 students in this year's ISEP *International Student Exchange Program) group to Ghana, which is the biggest group yet.
- - -
TRAVELING OVERSEAS
Sunday, January 11th, Mom and Dad took me to the Louisville airport. After several hugs and kisses, I was on my way. Through security and sitting by myself at the Delta Airline gate, by myself... But not for long. My Uncle Bill and Aunt Angie were also flying out of Louisville on that same day, and they found me and kept me company while I waited. It was awesome to have a familiar face and even more convenient when my plane got delayed, which meant I was going to miss my second plane in Cincinnati. Uncle Bill and Aunt Angie helped me change my flights so I would be able to make it to New York in time, to continue my journey. Their help was awesome, and I'm sure I would have been freaking out if I had to do it all by myself.
When I got to New York I had to get my baggage all by myself, and frankly, I had no idea where to go. So after asking a few questions, I waited, and they finally came, which was a relief. Ending up in Africa without luggage would not have been fun. So after I got my luggage, I loaded them onto a cart and rode the air train to the International Terminal. I felt so independent, and excited that I was actually on my way.
After checking my luggage back in, I sat down at a table and was watching people, when two girls walked by who looked familiar... They came around again, and asked me if I was going to Ghana! I was, and so were they! So we began talking and before we left, we were feeling more comfortable because we realized, none of us knew what we were getting ourselves into!
We boarded the plane in New York to London at about 11:40 pm. After we were all settled in, the pilot informed us that there was ice on the wings and top, so we would have to wait for the de-icing crew. A few minutes later, he let us know that the entire de-icing crew at JFK International Airport had already gone home, and would have to be called in! A little ironic, but two hours later... we were on our way.
On the flight from London to Ghana, I sat by a Ghanaian, Charles. We talked non-stop for the first half of the plane ride|! |He was awesome! |He worked in government in |Ghana and was very willing to tell me his thoughts about how parts of the government were corrupt and was fascinated that the |United |States had elected Barack |Obama as president. |It was a great start to an awesome trip, I'm sure! |I told him how |I was studying at the |University of |Ghana and what |I planned to do after |I graduate. |My first Ghanaian friend|! |(|Well, second |I guess|! |A ||Ghanaian grad student at |BSU, |Nii, gave me lots of great advice before |I got here, too.|)
To my surprise, Charles stopped by the International Student Hostel the other day to tell the three Americans he sat by on the plane hello. He was on campus for a conference, and I was so excited to see him! Off to a great start.
|AKWAABA
|Finally landing in the airport in |Accra was an amazing feeling. |So exhilarating. |I had finally made it. Even the airport was an adventure!
They informed us several times|: don't let anyone help you with your bags. |Ok. |That's simple enough, |I thought. But it was definitely harder than |I expected. |People surrounded us and helped steered our carts. We thought they were with our ||ISEP \(International \Student |Exchange |Program|) group to help us. |Once we got to our bus, they asked us for money... over and over and over again. ||We kept saying we didn't have any, but they wouldn't go away. Just 5 euros|? ||A cedi|? |It was very overwhelming and caught me completely off guard. |When you tell someone you don't have something in |America, they usually go away. |This did not happen!
|University of |Ghana
White buildings with clay tile roofs are the iconic building of the University of Ghana in Legon, Accra. Lush trees and grass grow everywhere, and dirt paths lead to classrooms and the few main roads.
When I first walked in to my dorm room, I was taken aback by the bare bones furniture and condition it was in. I didn't have high expectations, but wow! After unpacking some of my suitcases, it seems pretty big, and adequate. The Ghanaians lead a very different lifestyle than Americans. The hostel is cool because we all have our own personal balconies. The first morning I was awake at 7 and went outside to sit on my balcony and I was amazed by how many people were out and about. Guys were washing cars, people were going to the market to get breakfast. I've been told that Ghanians get up very early in the morning, probably because it's still cool outside.
I am going to have a Ghanaian roommate, although she still hasn't moved in yet, and classes are suppose to start tomorrow. It's kind of exciting because some of the American students got paired with other American students. This will be just one more learning experience, and I am hoping for the best.
AHH... COLD SHOWERS!
Before I got here, I was a little skeptical about the cold showers, but now that I have experienced them, they are awesome! After long, hot, sweaty days, nothing feels better to watch the dirt run off and stand beneath the cold water to cool down. While I couldn't imagine them in the U.S., they are nice here!
And yes, there is no toilet paper in the hostels, or many of the public restrooms either. So you bring your own, and I have quickly learned to conserve! A little really does go a long way.
SO... I'M GETTING MARRIED
Well, I'm not really getting married, but I've lost count of how many Ghanians have proposed! Haha. Walking by men cutting grass (by hand with machettis on the first day) one of the workers told me he loved me and asked if I would marry him. Thinking this was a little odd, after about the tenth proposal, I have come to realize, that's what they all say! Haha! Pretty humorous, and just one more cultural aspect Ghanaians engage in.
DRESS TO IMPRESS
The Ghanaian college students dress very nicely! Both men and women. Nii tried to explain this to me, but I didn't grasp the concept of just how nice they actually dress. I was shocked. Also, I didn't realize that you will never see a Ghanian woman with a skirt or shorts above her knees. This would have been nice to know before packing, LOL. But our resident advisor informed us that it's a misconception that Ghanaians don't wear shorts, and we should feel free to wear them, which was a relief.
While the Americans are sweating and panting in their shorts and tank tops, it is common to see Ghanaians walking around in hot blue jeans, and it doesn't even seem like they are hot. They gently dab the sweat from their faces with a cloth, while we can dab as much as we'd like, but it will be back in seconds.
FRIENDLY GHANAIANS
While Ghanaians are notorious for being friendly, it really puts things into perspective when they are nice to me personally. We are only suppose to drink bottled water, so the first day, I went into the store to buy a bottle for 40 pesewas (kinda like cents). I gave her 1 cedi (like a dollar). She said that she didn't have any change, so I could just take the water, and bring the money back to her later. Wow! I was pretty blown away. I don't think a similar thing would have happened in the U.S., especially since this is the first time I had ever met her.
Today we went to the beach and a young child was asking people in our group for money. We all told him we didn't have any as we were instructed to do. One girl told him she didn't have any money. The child then told her he was hungry, and she quickly replied that she was hungry too. The child then pulled our a pesewa coin and handed it to her. Wow! I was blown away.
Walking down the streets we will often hear: "Welcome to Ghana. We are so happy to have you here." Ghanaians are so friendly and proud of their country. There have already been so many examples and it will be awesome to experience the many more to come.
Well, I have written so much, trying to catch everyone up on a few of the things I have written down, and I will write again soon to fill you in on all the other amazing things I have already seen.
I love you!
Mel
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Quick Facts
The Ghanaian Flag
-Red symbolized the blood shed during the struggle for independence
-Yellow represents the country’s mineral wealth
-Green is symbolic of the country’s forests
-The five pointed lone star is the symbol of African emancipation and unity
Ghana
- Capital: Accra- Gained independence from Britain on March 6, 1957; only 51 years ago
- Money - Cedi
-Slightly smaller than Oregon
-Nearly 20 million people live in Ghana
-Main religions: Christian, Muslim
-Demogratic government
-The staple of most meals is fufu - boiled plantain or rice, pounded into a ball
-Meat is a sign of wealth in Ghana; seafood is more common
The University of Ghana
-Largest of 4 universities in Ghana
-A native Ghanaian said, "The University of Ghana is the 'Harvard of Ghana'".
-Student population: Approximately 20,000 (About the size of BSU)
-There is a scarcity of textbooks; most classes will be lecture style
-Classes may have up to 500 students
-There is less emphasis on periodic tests like in the American education system; The final exam at the end of the semester is 100% of a student's grade
-Only the very best students attend college in Ghana
-I will be living in an International Hostel with another American student
Write me often!
Melissa Payne, ISEP
University of Ghana
Private Mail Bag, L4
Legon, Accra; Ghana
WEST AFRICA
One thing to know, when you send me letters in the mail... You need to go to the post office, at least the first time you send me a letter. They said they would have to weigh it.
Someone who has already sent me a letter said that they could just buy stamps for 94 cents, and that would get the letter there.
Also, it takes about two to three weeks to get to me. And if you include your return address, you can expect a letter from Ghana! (So you should write!)
I will have Internet access, so for a quick note:
mjpayne@bsu.edu
Thanks everyone!
I love you!
Mel
University of Ghana
Private Mail Bag, L4
Legon, Accra; Ghana
WEST AFRICA
One thing to know, when you send me letters in the mail... You need to go to the post office, at least the first time you send me a letter. They said they would have to weigh it.
Someone who has already sent me a letter said that they could just buy stamps for 94 cents, and that would get the letter there.
Also, it takes about two to three weeks to get to me. And if you include your return address, you can expect a letter from Ghana! (So you should write!)
I will have Internet access, so for a quick note:
mjpayne@bsu.edu
Thanks everyone!
I love you!
Mel
Adios America, ETE SEN Ghana! (That's hello in Twi! :)
Leaving on Sunday, in only 5 more days, it still doesn't seem real. It doesn't really seem like I will be spending 129 days in an African country. (My mom, already has the days numbered, and I'm pretty sure has already began the countdown).
I still have a lot of unanswered questions, and it feels like I still have a lot to do, but I am just going to try to go with the flow and hope for the best.
Prim and Proper?
In a previous post, I questioned the need to bring a curling iron and blow dryer, and if I would need to wear make-up everyday in Ghana, like I do now. So, I Facebooked the girl from BSU who went to Ghana last Fall, and her response: "A blowdryer and curling iron are definately not needed. Take advantage of the not having to do your hair and makeup everyday." LOL. I'm still planning on taking mine... just in case! I might have a change of personality and go "au natual" during my trip!
Classes
I have been asked many times what kind of classes I will be taking while at the University of Ghana. And to be honest, I really don't know.
I will decide and register for classes when I get there, however I have been warned many times by several different times how unorganized the process is and how important it is to have patience!
The ISEP Ambassador said that her hardest and most stressful day during the entire experience was class registration. Soo hopefully knowing that ahead of time, I can be prepared to spend the entire day going from building to building to sign up for a class and not get too overwhelmed.
An African drumming or dancing class has been recommeded to me, and I definately want to partake in those! And all international students are required to take Twi, a tribal language that will be beneficial when we are bartaring in the markets! (YES! Bartaring! I can't wait!)
There are certain categories of classes we can chose from, and while there aren't any telelcommunications related classes, I do want to look into their School of Communications, maybe just observe for a few days, compare and contrast, see how they do things.
I will make sure to fill you all in on what classes I will be taking, and let you know how my registration process went! Good Luck!
I could go on and on and on! I have tried to educate myself as much as possible, to be a prepared and open to new things as possible.
Oh, and one more thing- it snowed today, just a little but enough to bundle up while outside; so within the same week, I will be wearing a winter jacket and gloves, and then sweating with shorts!
Me kra wo, (Goodbye in Twi!)
Mel
I still have a lot of unanswered questions, and it feels like I still have a lot to do, but I am just going to try to go with the flow and hope for the best.
Prim and Proper?
In a previous post, I questioned the need to bring a curling iron and blow dryer, and if I would need to wear make-up everyday in Ghana, like I do now. So, I Facebooked the girl from BSU who went to Ghana last Fall, and her response: "A blowdryer and curling iron are definately not needed. Take advantage of the not having to do your hair and makeup everyday." LOL. I'm still planning on taking mine... just in case! I might have a change of personality and go "au natual" during my trip!
Classes
I have been asked many times what kind of classes I will be taking while at the University of Ghana. And to be honest, I really don't know.
I will decide and register for classes when I get there, however I have been warned many times by several different times how unorganized the process is and how important it is to have patience!
The ISEP Ambassador said that her hardest and most stressful day during the entire experience was class registration. Soo hopefully knowing that ahead of time, I can be prepared to spend the entire day going from building to building to sign up for a class and not get too overwhelmed.
An African drumming or dancing class has been recommeded to me, and I definately want to partake in those! And all international students are required to take Twi, a tribal language that will be beneficial when we are bartaring in the markets! (YES! Bartaring! I can't wait!)
There are certain categories of classes we can chose from, and while there aren't any telelcommunications related classes, I do want to look into their School of Communications, maybe just observe for a few days, compare and contrast, see how they do things.
I will make sure to fill you all in on what classes I will be taking, and let you know how my registration process went! Good Luck!
I could go on and on and on! I have tried to educate myself as much as possible, to be a prepared and open to new things as possible.
Oh, and one more thing- it snowed today, just a little but enough to bundle up while outside; so within the same week, I will be wearing a winter jacket and gloves, and then sweating with shorts!
Me kra wo, (Goodbye in Twi!)
Mel
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