Whoever may doubt that young people have not the capacity or maturity to impact and change the world around them, never hung around with the Ghana Study Abroad Group '09. Being surrounded by positive energy radiating off each student as each and everyone one of us completely immersed ourselves in a compelling situation daily for 14 days has been one of the best experiences of my young life. Thank You All.
--Maritza Flores, Political Science

My trip to Ghana was a captivating and riveting experience; it redefined my outlook of the world and transformed me into a global conscious individual. Every college student can benefit from the Ghanaian experience. --Patric S. Khiev, Political Science Traveling to Ghana was an eye-opening experience. It truly changed my perspective of life.
--Ida Legesse, Political Science

The study abroad program to Ghana was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. The history, people and culture leave an indelible mark on you.
--Crystal Menzies , History (Spelman College)

My ancestors are from Ghana, so I gained an understanding of where I came from which will help me find out where I am going in life. During this trip, I learned about myself while making lasting relationships. I gained an appreciation for life causing me to open my heart up to others who are in need of a helping hand.
--Breanna Mayland, Business Marketing

This trip for me was not only life changing but truly extraordinary in what I have learned inside as well as outside the classroom; I have never learned so much about myself and what I can truly do in such a short time period. This experience made me laugh, cry, and realize how blessed we truly are in America, a land where we are given so much but utilize so little of our resources that we have as well as our capacity to do great wonders with our greatest resources of all, our minds.
--Christopher Campbell, Management and Human Resources and Marketing Major

The Ghana 2009 Study Abroad program is something embedded in me! The people who were on this trip as well as the experiences made every minute worth while, and made me a stronger person.
--Heidi Armendariz, Political Science

Ghana gave me new eyes and was an unforgettable experience. I learned a new way to live and be. It was fascinating to see that I could do all that with people I did not know and a culture I never thought I could understand.
--Kristin Oliver, Business Marketing

In traveling to Ghana we immersed ourselves into a contrasting culture. We realized that there are not only distinct differences but similarities that we would have never known between the two worlds unless we traveled there. This trip has enabled me to start my journey as a global citizen.
-- Michelle Ramirez, Political Science

I chose the Ghana study abroad program not really knowing what it was about but it turned out to be one of the best experiences of my life. It made me appreciate everything that I have and I have made friendships that I hope will last forever.
--Cindy-Lee Marsh, Political Science

Out of the 20 countries I have visited, Ghana was the most deep experience I ever had, it really touches you, Ghana and their people make you realize that what is excellent in others belong to us as well.
--Adán Gardiazábal, Master’s in Public Administration

Visiting Ghana was a once in a lifetime opportunity that everyone should experience for themselves. Ghana is a wonderful place with a rich culture, heritage and traditions and understandably; the true gateway to Africa.
--Juan Gonzalez, Political Science

Ghana resurrected the better angels of our nature. The West African diamond in the rough catapulted me to an untouchable level; one of humility, respect, compassion, and everlasting love.
--Jordan Kittleson, Political Science

Going to Ghana is the single most important thing I have done with my life so far. This trip taught me that being put on this earth is bigger than just what we do with our own lives. We may come from different parts of the earth, speak in different languages, and even look different, but in the end, we all breathe the same air. This is the lesson I learned and that is why this trip will forever remain in my heart.
--Tiana Towns, Psychology, University of California, Riverside

My experience in Ghana showed me that God provides everything we need to live a rich and peaceful life.
--Victoria Menzies, Master’s in Public Administration

Traveling to Ghana this second time reinforces that every experience an American may have in leading a nation towards progress and change is refreshing. I appreciate my privileges here so much more and see the world in a new way when reflecting on the innate joy and pride that Ghanaians have for their country, and simply for life.
-- Shelley A. Bruce, Gender Ethnic and Multicultural Studies and Fine Art

Traveling to Ghana was very rewarding and amazing! This trip has been a life-changing expedition for me. I had an opportunity to visit there last year wanting to immerse myself in a different culture. Now as a graduate student, I came back wanting to learn more about Ghana by doing my thesis on Ghana's tourism sector. I have gained so much in this year’s trip: new friends, a newer perspective and greater possibilities. This year’s Ghana trip has brought many good memories and these memories will be cherished for the rest of my life.
-- Richard P. Woo, Master’s in Public Administration

This trip was a chance for me to leave my reality for two weeks and witness someone else's. Amazing.
--Jennifer Clay, GEMS

We build large houses, the Ghanaians build homes. We learn greed, they learn values. We see money as motivation, they see nature. We raise children to glamorize the labels on their clothes, they raise children who wear their smile. We have a lot to learn, they have many valuable lessons. We are the diaspora--Africa is our roots.
--Paola Beas, GEMS