Higher Learning 3

Well class, or something like it, began this week. For most lectures, professors didn't show up. One of mine showed up 50 mins late. I finally decided to take only 4 courses. They are 1) Religion and the African Diaspora 2) Societies and Cultures of Africa 3) Twi Language Course 4) Long Essay. The long essay is a 6 hr. Independant Study. I'm doing an analysis of African and African-American Literature. Hopefully it will go well. I decided a couple of days ago to apply for an undergraduate research program over the summer term so wish me luck. I'm having my information sent to 14 different institutions.

On Tues., I decided to go to the beach with a couple of friends. We paid 5,000 cedis (6 bucks) to swim in the pool at this great hotel connected to the beach. I know it was an expensive place because 1. The food was high 2. I only saw 2 Black people who weren't part of the staff. It made me really think about how people with money could create their own world. This was apparent because 5mins away from the hotel were hustlers on the corner.

Today, I decided to go grocery shopping because it costs too much to keep eating at different places. I had to catch the Tro-Tro. Riding the Tro-Tro is like riding a bus with half the space and twice as many people. When I left the market, I got on the wrong one and ended up on the other side of town. It was terrible! Luckily, I made it to the right one and made it back. After that, I decided not to get back on the Tro-Tro for a couple of weeks.

Higher Learning 2

Today marks the end of my first week at the University of Ghana. I've just returned from the Cape Coast and it was a life changing experience. Our group went to the Cape Coast Slave Castle and the Rainforest. The castle was the most haunting experience I've ever had. When I entered, I felt spiritually wrong. We entered the male and female cells and witnessed a short prayer and libation ceremony. All the while, our tour guide is telling us about the horrors that occurred and I couldn't stop crying. One of the worst things I saw was the church that was above the male dungeon. I just couldn't imagine people praising God while they torture people. The tour ended with an affirmation which promoted equality and respect. I definitely hope everyone gets the opportunity to visit one of the castles because it is a very powerful thing.
The Rainforest was something completely unexpected. We say ebony trees(used for making piano keys), perfume trees, and plants that cut like knives. The most memorable thing about this place was the canopies. We walked across canopies that were 124ft. high and it scared me to death. It was truly a once in a lifetime thing.
As for my group, we are doing wonderful. This weekend trip really gave me the opportunity to discuss how strange I initially felt. Everybody looked out for me when we were at the castle and I really appreciated it. They also talked to me about how they felt. It was truly a beautiful thing because I already feel very close to these people and we've only been here for a week. Well, I'm supposed to pick some courses next week. I found out class is once a week for 2hrs. Then I have to have a tutorial for each class for 1hr. It's not bad. Anyway, we'll see what happens from here.

Higher Learning

Well, last night I arrived in Accra, Ghana. I spent the better part of 18-20 hours in the air and couldn't wait to lay down. As soon as I arrived in Accra, I was burning up. It was so humid it was uncomfortable. Next I decided to grab my bags only to find out they didn't make it. Now I'm stuck with a carry-on and backpack. Hopefully, I'll have something soon. The other people in my group are very nice as are the people in Legon. I found out today that they University and the town are one in the same. You literally can't tell where one ends and the other begins. We began our orientation today and went on a 3hr. walking tour of campus. I think it's about 85-90 degrees outside so it's pretty intense. Normally, this weather along with my dark clothes would keep me inside, but the atmosphere is so beautiful. The campus has some of the most amazing views of the city. It also have extremely beautiful people.