Trent-in-Ghana Participant 2012-2013
The Trent in Ghana program was a defining element of my education, both from an academic perspective and from a broader social perspective. I learned so much about myself and the way that I fit into the incredibly complex system of our rapidly globalizing world. It was a really unique experience to combine the theoretical approaches that I learned at Trent with a practical approach to very difficult issues. The things I learned in Ghana in my courses and through my exploration of a new place and a new way of being continue to influence my academic and social lives.
I took a joint major in anthropology and international development studies at Trent, and I found that the Trent in Ghana program broadened my perspectives in both disciplines. I learned a lot about the languages of Ghana, and some of the ways that the specific colonial legacy of the country continues to affect the society, economics, and politics of the country. I was immersed in very different ways of thinking about the world, and it was a profoundly enriching experience. I was able to participate in an organization which aimed to mobilize the development “industry” in Northern Ghana in interesting new ways. During my placement I participated in a very diverse set of activities organized by my host organization, including microfinance programs, workshops for sharing local knowledge, sponsorship programs for women pursuing higher education, and mediating negotiations around a proposed shea nut plantation in a neighbouring community. I learned about different approaches to small scale development projects, and to conducting business in general. I learned about some of the real problems faced by development practitioners on a daily basis, which range from the broad conceptual problems that we discussed in the classroom to simple power-outages and other practical obstacles to conducting development work.
I really enjoyed the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and try a whole host of new things. I tried new foods and languages and clothing styles, but I also tried new ways of thinking about business, leisure, school, and life. Sometimes it was awkward and weird and uncomfortable. Sometimes it was exciting and fun and enriching and awesome. Usually it was both. That’s the great thing about doing something that’s outside of your comfort zone and outside of what you’re used to – it is complicated and awesome and helps you to grow and understand yourself better. I would recommend this program for anyone who is interested in learning in a very broad sense. It really helps you to make connections between theory and practice, and helps deepen your understanding of some of the complexities of development as a discipline and a practice.