I am currently a senior at the college at Brockport. I will be attending a Winter Session study abroad program in Accra, Ghana. The program consists of multiple facets including lectures about various aspects of Ghanaian culture and history.

In addition to the academic facet, I will be volunteering time at a local orphanage, going on excursions, and experiencing life in Ghana.

This program means a lot to me for a few reasons. My first reason is that I want to increase my understanding of the world, especially in a sociological context because I am a sociology major. Also, I feel that Ghana is a beautiful country that is grossly underestimated. There are a lot of stereotypes about countries in Africa, and I would love to learn the truth. Lastly, I really want to learn more about my heritage. Being an African American female without any direct lineage from other countries, I often wonder where I came from. Being in Africa will give me some semblance of understanding my ancestry.

Studying abroad is my only way to travel outside of the country because I do not have a lot of money. This trip truly is a one in a lifetime opportunity for me. I want to gain as much from my college experience because I know that not everyone is afforded these opportunities. Hopefully you will help me out.

Thank you!