Hello, my name is Corey, and I was lucky enough to study abroad in Ghana. I feel incredibly grateful for this wonderful experience I had. I think about Africa every day and how much it has impacted my life, especially as a Black man. I’ve never been much of a traveler, so I was nervous when I chose to study abroad. Even though my trip was just a little over two weeks, I was still somewhat hesitant. I was lucky enough to go on a great program called Ghana Education and Culture and the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) staff made my trip unforgettable. From the places we visited to the people I met and the things I ate, I miss it every day and would love to go back. I am extremely thankful for the Global Access Ambassador Scholarship for giving me this opportunity.

To be honest, I didn’t know what to expect. Really, the only things I had heard about Africa were stereotypes and rumors, so I was eager to experience it for myself. That being said, I loved every second I was in Ghana and wished I could have stayed longer. I enjoyed exploring the city of Accra and meeting and interacting with all the people. My favorite place was the Accra Art Center, where I had some unforgettable experiences and met friends I’ll remember forever. This just highlights the incredible hospitality of the culture. It didn’t matter where we went or who we talked to; I was always treated with kindness and respect, which made me feel like I was a part of their culture.  

Another thing I learned about Ghanaian culture is the great work ethic of its people. No matter where I went, people were always busy—selling things, making crafts, giving tours, or driving others around. Everyone was focused on working and providing for their families, and it was amazing to witness such dedication.  

I was fortunate enough to visit different schools in Ghana and teach aspiring students there. Since I want to be a math educator, I was thrilled to have this opportunity, but I was also nervous because I had never taught before. At various points in my life, I have second-guessed myself and questioned whether this is something I truly want to do. This trip was life-changing for me because it answered that question. I learned that I absolutely want to pursue this path. Teaching in Ghana was an awesome experience; all the students were so kind and respectful, and we had a great time learning together.  

Studying abroad allowed me to experience my identity in a new and exciting way. As a Black African American man who has grown up in predominantly white towns, I was intrigued to see what it would be like where the majority is African. I found it truly wonderful to be surrounded by my culture and my roots; it was nothing short of breathtaking. This experience exceeded my expectations of what it was like to be around Africans all the time. I had a strong feeling that I would love the culture, and I’m glad they welcomed me into it.  

For future students considering studying abroad: I never even thought about studying abroad when I started college, but I’m so glad I had the opportunity to reconnect with my roots in Africa. I’m already planning my next study abroad trip because I had such an unbelievable time. I highly encourage you to do the same! You never know what's out there if you don’t take the leap. 

LEARN HOW YOU CAN APPLY FOR A GLOBAL ACCESS AMBASSADOR SCHOLARSHIP

The Global Access Ambassador Scholarship program provides awards to study abroad for a summer, semester, or academic year. The scholarships are intended to support students who study abroad with the intent to serve as Global Access Ambassadors upon return to the UI campus. Upon completion of the study abroad program and return to UI, award recipients are asked to submit a photo and an open letter to prospective students or suggest an alternate means of sharing with prospective students.

Please note that the opinions and views expressed by ambassadors are solely those of the students and do not reflect or represent the views of International Programs or the University of Iowa.

International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement.  IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.