By Tariq Rasheed

As my time in Ghana is coming to an end, I’ve begun to do a lot of reflecting on my time here. The entirety of the trip has been filled with a range of emotions, the good, the bad, and everything in between. I faced challenges with the satisfaction of my internship, often feeling like I was limited in what I could do creatively here; I chose to find ways to be productive that were beneficial to me, such as working on personal projects of developing mock campaigns for my portfolio. Some of my coworkers have made me feel better being here because of the way they took me in and treated me as one of them. Coming to Ghana was way out of my comfort zone and at times it was hard to be here, but being here has forced me to try and do many things I wouldn’t normally do.

I’ve tried multiple Ghanaian foods such as tou zaffi, fufu, banku, garden egg stew, and more. I hiked the highest point in Ghana and saw something beautiful at the top. I was able to feed a monkey and swim in a waterfall like I’d never seen. I’ve missed home and the people I love, I’ve missed the food and luxuries of living in America but at the same time I’ve been a part of a once-in-a-lifetime experience so I’m grateful. The people and the culture were a shock to me in a good way. Despite the circumstances and many living in poverty, they don’t let it define them because what you have shouldn’t determine your life outlook. I’ve never seen people be so welcoming and joyed to have others experience their country and culture, the people truly make the place. I will leave Ghana with a broadened perspective and a new appreciation for what I do have. Overall I’m proud to be a part of this trip and have taken in every moment despite any challenges I had to overcome. Thank you, Ghana.