As we approach the last week of our internships, I can’t believe all that we have accomplished as a group, and as individuals. I feel blessed to have been placed in an internship where I was able to learn a lot about the Public Relations field and about the Ghanaian culture.

First, I was able to complete my communication audit report! This was my first time ever composing a report of this kind in four weeks with little guidance. There were many times throughout the process where I questioned myself if I was doing it right, but I realized that at least in my workplace, no one knew wrong from right anyways. Composing the report consisted of lots of face to face interviews, producing an online survey, and straining my eyes looking at my computer screen all day. I found value in analyzing my company’s current communication methods and was eager to share recommendations and strategies that have worked for me with other organizations. I have to say; I’ve been feeling like a true professional here in the workplace.

Some things that I found interesting in the workplace can be categorized as “company culture.” I remember walking into the office on my first day and wondered why each door was always closed. It made it difficult to memorize who was in what room, but I soon learned that it’s because each room set their AC to a certain temperature and they did not want to omit that cold air…not because they are feeling antisocial. I noticed that emails are less detailed and more like text messages—less formal, quick, and with a number of grammatical errors. It didn’t bother me too much though because it gave me the excuse to leave my cubicle to talk to that person in person. I didn’t mind getting those extra steps in.

Throughout those face to face interviews and small conversations, I had the chance to learn about my colleagues and where they are from in Ghana. Many of my colleagues were from the Volta Region, one of the places we visited. It’s an honor to be in their presence as they share with me the things they love like God and food. Thanks to them, I’ve tried a majority of Ghanaian cuisine. We’ve also joked about American and Ghanaian differences like our pronunciation of certain words and how they want to trade hairstyles with me. Although we have differences, I love how we are able to vibe with each other on the same wavelength.

Some of my favorite moments at work are the many good mornings I say, spending time with the funny guys in the Finance Department, and how my coworkers walk me to the trotro stop at the end of the day. All these little moments bring a huge smile to my face. It’s true when they say that your coworkers determine if your workplace is fun or not. I will miss my coworkers a lot. I hope that the future cohort will feel the same way about their internships.