What made your service-learning experience memorable?
My service-learning experience in Ghana was memorable because of the deep connections I built with the community and the hands-on nature of the work we did. Visiting the orphanage and observing the shared responsibilities within the community brought the cultural value of communal living to life. Additionally, working on the rainwater harvesting project gave me the opportunity to directly apply my engineering knowledge to a meaningful cause. The combination of cultural immersion and practical problem-solving made this experience unforgettable.
Why was it important for you to go to Ghana?
Going to Ghana was important to me not only because it allowed me to contribute to impactful projects, but also because it was a journey of reconnection. Having grown up in Ghana, this trip was an opportunity to see my home country from a new perspective, blending my personal history with my academic and professional growth. It was also significant to engage in meaningful work that supported local communities and learn how sustainable development initiatives can address real-world challenges.
What have you learned about yourself from this experience?
This experience taught me that I thrive when combining technical problem-solving with meaningful human connection. I learned that I am most inspired when working collaboratively with others, especially in a setting where cultural values and practical needs intersect. It also reinforced the importance of adaptability and humility in service work, as I learned to navigate unfamiliar situations and respect the lived experiences of the people I was serving.
How will you apply something you have learned from your time in Ghana?
From my time in Ghana, I have gained a deeper appreciation for community-driven approaches to problem-solving. Moving forward, I will prioritize collaboration and cultural sensitivity in all my projects. Whether in my engineering career or other service opportunities, I will strive to ensure that solutions are sustainable and aligned with the values and needs of the communities they serve.
Why is it important to be a global citizen?
Being a global citizen is important because it broadens your perspective and fosters empathy for people from different cultures and backgrounds. It reminds us that we are interconnected and that our actions, no matter how small, have a ripple effect on the global community. My experience in Ghana has shown me that by embracing cultural diversity and working together, we can create innovative solutions to shared challenges while building a more inclusive and compassionate world.
