Second year Annie Ungrady went on a trip over winter break. No, it wasn’t to an exclusive tropical island or a luxurious hotel in Europe. This campus Celebrity spent her break volunteering in Ghana. Annie let Hercampus know about her trip, from the friendly smiles each morning to the mosquitoes.
Major? French and Public Health
Why did you go to Ghana? I have always wanted to go to Africa and I knew that going with a group of students to volunteer would be the chance of a lifetime.
What was the most memorable moment? One morning, when we were waiting outside for our on-site contact to pick us up to bring us to our volunteer site, a man who was walking on the street stopped in front of us and started talking to us (this was not unusual; Ghanaians are, by nature, extremely friendly). Then, when the conversation was wrapping up, he said, “Thank God for Africa today.” The simplicity and the genuine tone really stuck with me. He was truly grateful for his life and for his environment and community. I just really loved the attitude.
What was your favorite part about the trip? Getting to know the family with whom we were living was easily my favorite part of the trip. We were welcomed into their home as if we were extended family. Each family member was incredible, so listening to him/her talk and learning about their lifestyle and goals was really amazing.
What was the most difficult thing about the trip? Actually adapting to the heat, the time change, and the food was probably the most difficult thing; it was a huge, sudden shock to everyone’s systems. The time change and food was easy to adapt to, but I’m not sure if everyone completely adapted to the heat.
Would you want to do something like this ever again? Definitely. I am seriously thinking of going back to the same volunteer organization in Ghana some time over summer. It was an incredible, incredible experience.
Did you learn anything during your trip that is applicable to life here in Charlottesville? I have to preface the answer to this question by explaining that the Ghanaian people are the happiest people I have ever met. They are so easy going and positive, even through all of their hardships. So, the biggest lesson I learned, I feel, applies to daily life almost anywhere: Smile and wave to everyone. Such small gestures can be so extremely powerful.
Would you recommend this trip for someone else? What would be your advice to them? ABSOLUTELY. If you want to be personally challenged and you’re ready to break through your comfort level, definitely do it. My advice: bring a lot of mosquito repellent and hand-sanitizer.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UVA chapter.