Diary of an Abruni

My family was pretty puzzled when they found out I had not only applied but been accepted into NYU Accra. The only form of congratulations I received was a simple, “Why?” Can I blame them? Not really, it’s understandable. They weren’t against the decision by any means, and I have to admit this decision came without a hint of warning. Why would I want to go from luxurious New York City where I have every amenity at my disposal to third world Ghana?

Hi everyone, I’m Maggie and I’m spending my semester in Accra, Ghana. Not because I’m studying public health or social justice (my concentration is the opposite actually, Graphic Design) and not because I want to join an NGO in hopes of changing the world one orphan at a time (though it would be nice). No, I decided to come to Ghana mostly because of the culture and beautiful photographic landscapes. I would be lying if I didn’t mention that putting myself in such a vulnerable and extreme situation was also incredibly appealing. Being a Native American I have always found myself being pulled towards other cultures and digging for the comparison it might have to my own, which I am pretty far removed from. It wasn’t until two summers ago when I moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico and really integrated myself with my Navajo half that I realized how similar third world living conditions are to the living conditions of the reservation.

So here I am in Ghana and I’ve got to say it hasn’t been as hard of an adjustment as I thought it was going to be. Little things like the multiple power outages every single day, and the lack of a stable internet connection are what have been getting to me the most. I’ve had the power go out during my shower twice in the week that I’ve been here. Everything here is much easier when you have a good sense of humor about it and just let it roll off your back. It’s also hot and humid, and I’m convinced the mosquitos are out to get me.

A little about me: I’m (almost) 21 years old and I’m from Shawnee, Kansas. I think that answers the question as to why I wanted to so desperately to come to New York City. I’ve always enjoyed traveling and while I’ve only been to Ireland, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Canada (if those last two even count) I still like to consider myself well-traveled for my age. I love just about every subject I take and I finally landed in Gallatin with a concentration in Graphic Design, Photography, and Creative Writing. Overall, I really enjoy digital art and communication. I’ve been married for about eight months to the guy I grew up across the street from. We’re used to long distance (usually seeing him about once a month when I’m in school) but this will definitely be an adventure! He has a job in the Navy teaching the math and physics of nuclear power. A lot of people find it a little weird and shocking that I’m married at such a young age so I thought I’d get it out in the open!

Anyways, I’m really excited to be here in Ghana and I’ve already started noticing lots of differences and similarities to home. I’ve heard that patience is the key to surviving here and that has already proven to be true. With so much free time on my hands I’ve really turned to my journal and reading as a therapeutic way to handle such a dramatic change. I finished the first Hunger Games book in 2 days and I’m off to start to second one now. Team Peeta all the way!