Monday, May 28, 2012

12 Hours

Akwaaba!

(That's Twi for: Welcome!) To my blog ^^

Well, I have just 12 more hours here in the US of A, then I'll be on my way to GHANA for the summer.



For those of you who don't know me, here's a brief overview: I'm a rising sophomore at Kenyon College in Ohio. I'm an International Studies major with a minor in Cultural Anthropology. Two years ago, I spent the year living abroad in the Netherlands with a host family. That really sparked my interest in other cultures, so when the opportunity to volunteer in Africa presented itself, I took it quite quickly! I'm volunteering with a program called IVHQ for 7 weeks. I've been reading about the customs and etiquette rules of Ghana... there are definitely some things I'm going to have to get used to, such as avoiding using my left hand and adjusting to a more laid back concept of time. At this point, I know a few things about what to expect:

1. I will probably be working at an orphanage.
2. I will be learning the Twi language.

Other than that, I don't know a whole lot. For instance, I don't know where I'll be living. Ghana is about the size of Oregon, with lots of diversity in terms of weather, geography, and demographics. Once I arrive in the capital city of Accra, I will be interviewed and the coordinators will look at which locations need the most help. Then, I will be placed and my adventure will commence!

Well, I guess I should finish packing and get some sleep. I have a long day ahead of me tomorrow.

Oh, and I know one more thing:

3. This is going to be one great experience.

Yoo, yenko!
(Alright, let's go!)

 Emily