After taking two consecutive flights from Canada, I eventually arrived in Saginaw and inquired about the availability of buses heading to Mount Pleasant.
Arriving as an international student at Central Michigan University, I experienced a mix of emotions primarily due to my lack of familiarity with the area and absence of contacts in Michigan to provide insights on the local environment.
I felt disoriented, akin to a blind individual descending without guidance. However, upon reaching the serene and tranquil town, a wave of calmness washed over me, offering a much-needed respite from the chaotic journey.
Exploring the True Essence of Ghana
Hailing from Ghana, I served as a medical officer at Zunuo Hospital in the Techiman Municipality within the Bono region.
Beyond my clinical duties, I actively engaged in medical outreach programs and public health campaigns across the rural districts of Techiman, focusing on educating communities about disease prevention strategies.
Through these field experiences, I learned that influencing lives goes beyond individual consultations. This realization led me to pursue further studies in public health, aiming to broaden my understanding of disease prevention, policy implementation, and intervention strategies.
Central Michigan University stood out as my ideal academic destination, boasting a comprehensive public health program and specialized health professional courses. Prior to my enrollment, I had the opportunity to visit relatives in Canada.
Upon commencing my studies at CMU, I encountered a prevailing stereotype that viewed Africa as a homogeneous entity. Many perceived it as a vast, undifferentiated landmass with uniform cultures, languages, and landscapes.
While some recognized Ghana through its national football team, the Black Stars, few delved beyond the realm of football. To those familiar with Ghana’s cultural heritage, it was heartening to witness the richness of its traditions and history.
For instance, Ghana’s cultural tapestry includes the renowned Kente cloth, originating from Bonwire in Ghana, serving as a royal garment worn by Asante royalty during special occasions. Initially reserved for royalty, the Kente cloth symbolizes affluence and cultural sophistication.
Crafted meticulously on a horizontal strip loom, the Kente cloth comprises multiple strips intricately sewn together to achieve the desired dimensions. The Ewe community also partakes in Kente weaving, offering a diverse array of patterns that symbolize daily life. Rooted in West African weaving traditions, Kente incorporates a blend of French and Italian silks, cotton, and wool.
As an international student, I took on the role of a Ghana advocate, engaging in conversations to dispel misconceptions and showcase the vibrant narrative of Ghana—a country where tradition harmonizes with modernity.
Transitioning into CMU’s academic milieu posed a significant challenge, particularly adapting to the rigorous academic writing standards distinct from those of other countries catering to graduate students.
The academic rigor and gradual transition process presented hurdles, especially for first-time graduate students grappling with a heavier workload and the adjustment phase.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding my new environment, the genuine warmth exuded by the city’s inhabitants enveloped me in a comforting embrace from the moment I arrived.
Embracing Kindness in Mount Pleasant
The residents of Mount Pleasant exemplify a remarkable sense of altruism and camaraderie, consistently going above and beyond to assist one another.
I vividly recall a moment of being disoriented while searching for the health professions building. Amidst the bustling crowd of students, a young woman engrossed in her assignments not only provided verbal directions but also personally escorted me to the designated location, showcasing unparalleled selflessness.
Such acts of kindness were not isolated incidents but rather a daily occurrence, extending from faculty members to students and even the staff at Walmart. Individuals like Jennifer Jones, an academic advisor, Clint Fitzpatrick, the director of Graduate Admissions, and Regan Foster, the media director of CM Life, alongside the students, contribute to fostering an environment brimming with compassion and generosity. Undoubtedly, the city harbors a multitude of remarkable souls.
Cultural Fusion at CMU
Central Michigan University embodies a rich cultural mosaic where students of diverse backgrounds—spanning various races and languages—converge harmoniously.
The connections forged transcend mere academic pursuits, rooted in principles of acceptance, tolerance, and freedom. The inclusive environment nurtures a spirit of embracing diverse cultures and personalities, encouraging meaningful dialogues that broaden perspectives.
This inclusive ethos cultivates a sense of belonging, fostering a supportive community where individuals can flourish. In my capacity as a master’s student in public health, I witnessed firsthand the rapid bond formation among students hailing from diverse backgrounds, facilitated by shared experiences and mutual respect.
Interacting with individuals from varied cultural backgrounds during classes, orientation sessions, and even casual gatherings like basketball games, provided invaluable insights into diverse cultural perspectives. By embracing diversity, we cultivate an environment that celebrates uniqueness, fosters mutual respect, and dismantles barriers while fostering connections across disparate backgrounds.
The city’s tranquil ambiance, civility, and robust social support systems create a welcoming haven for students, offering avenues for support through diverse groups, including counseling centers and student organizations, fostering personal and academic growth within a tight-knit community.