My Study Abroad Game Plan

For the Fall Semester I am studying in Ghana at the University of Ghana, Legon Hill. I have spent months saving up and preparing for this trip! Now that I am here, I see how much free time I have to work with. I don’t have to juggle multiple classes 2-3 times a week and two jobs at the same time.

That said, I need to maximize my time in this hub of cultural wonder. 4 months can quickly go by. So, here is my study abroad game plan.

1.Study a Language

I don’t find it appropriate to go to a country and not learn a language spoken there. A few phrases here and there will make navigating and adapting so much easier.  In Ghana, there are at least 75 languages spoken, but some count 50 based on certain dialects. The popular language in Accra, Twi, is spoken by the Akan people. The USAC program requires their students to take the class, and rightfully so. Having to be tested on it is really going to help me push myself.

2. Support local artists

Seeing Ghana from an artists’ point of view is the most impactful way for me to immerse myself. There are large markets like Makola and Madina that I want to get some beautiful pieces from. When I was younger, my mother would decorate the house with African art she found at thrift stores with no idea if it was authentic or not. Now, I can get her paintings and crafts from the source. I am also moving into my first apartment when I get back to the US, so it comes in handy to bring back décor! 

I also want to visit the National Theater. Accra has a huge dance and theater community that have reasonable student discounts. Ghanaian theater has live music that incorporates improvisation, and given I studied Music Theory in high school, I want to witness first-hand the technical it takes to improvise rhythmically.

3. Interact with people off-campus.

A college campus has its own climate. I want to get out of that and meet people in the city and while traveling the country. The weekend is a perfect time to explore the city, and some friends and I are planning on catching a trotro to various cities and maybe even Togo.

4. Work on my blog

I designed my blog website, Accidie and Affection, last summer and have not posted often. I’m also guest blogging for Hawks Abroad and my study abroad programs, USAC, blog site. Being abroad is the perfect opportunity to post and build my writing portfolio. I intend to get into publishing and journalism, and Africa is the best creative stimulant to get my writing career started. 

5. Try a new physical activity!

There are football clubs on campus fields that are always looking for players. I want to find the courage to ask a group if I could join. The fitness center also offers yoga classes. I have tried to hit the splits for a while, so this is the perfect time. 

6. Have an outfit tailored

There are seamstresses itching to make outfits for obronis. I already had an outfit tailored for me. On my 3rd night, I happened to walk by the Kitchen and a seamstress, Maame Ifewa, had set up an array of beautiful fabrics to choose from She was in the middle of measuring other international students when she saw me looking at the designs and told me to show me a picture of something I may want designed. It was the best thing. A google search later, I had drawn the two-piece outfit and got measured. I felt so bougee. Now, I plan to have many more done.

7. Get my hair braided

Do you know how expensive it is to get your hair braided in the States?! I can’t afford $130 every 6 weeks. Here in Ghana, I can get my hair braided for 50 cedis, and another 60 cedis for the hair extensions, and $10 for a tip. In total, it is about $22. The likelihood of me wanting to continue getting my braided when I return is almost certain. I probably will ask tons of questions and practice on myself so I can do braid my hair in the States myself.

8. Hike Mount Afadjato

Mount Afadjato is the highest peak in Ghana. The locals take about 25 minutes to climb the mountain, but some have taken up to 2 hours. I’m eager to test myself and see how that turns out. When I come down from the hike, I intend to see the various butterflies inhabit the local area. From what I hear they are a magnificent sight to see. Hopefully my new Lumix camera will capture some cool nature shots. 

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This list is far from comprehensive. There may be a whole bunch more that I will get to do but just haven’t planned for it yet. For example, I didn’t even mention trying new foods, because that’s a given! Let’s see what Ghana has in store for me.

-Adilia

SU-Sponsored Program - USAC Study in Accra - Accra, Ghana - Fall 2019