Laker students, alumni, faculty & staff share their Global GVSU Story.
As a student at GVSU, I had always wanted to study abroad. My major was International Relations, so I wanted to immerse myself in a vastly different culture that would push me outside my comfort zone. After going over the options, I decided to study at the University of Cape Coast in Cape Coast, Ghana. I was one of only nine non-African students, which encouraged me make local many friends. Multiple times, I was invited to my new friends homes. I was able to spend time with their families, share in meals and even was able to learn how to prepare fufu, a common local dish. It was incredible to have the experience of spending several days in a African homes. I was able to see and learn about their culture and family dynamics. After returning home, I knew I wanted to continue to learn about other countries and cultures. Today, I have the honor of having a career working with international students from over 50 countries at Western Michigan University, including some from Ghana. I relish the opportunity to continue to learn from international students, and I thank my time studying abroad for helping me realize the gift it is to meet people and make friends from around the world.
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