Molweni (Hello in isiXhosa)! My name is Winifred, but everyone calls me Wini. I’m 21 years old. I was born and grew up in Ghana, and then moved to Chicago, Illinois, when I was nine years old. A few years ago, I moved to Cambridge, Massachusetts, to start college at Harvard University, where I study Computer Science and African Studies. I study how technology shapes the world, as well as the history and cultures of the African continent.
I decided to study abroad because I wanted to experience another part of Africa beyond what I knew from growing up in Ghana. I wanted to immerse myself in a new culture, meet new people, challenge the way I see the world, and learn from experiences outside of my everyday life. This semester, I’m studying abroad in Cape Town, South Africa, where I’m taking courses in Politics and Public Health. I’m especially excited to explore how history, politics, and health shape communities and people’s everyday lives.
I chose Cape Town because of its mountains, beaches, and rich history shaped by different communities. I’m eager to explore the city, learn from the people I meet, and discover connections between Cape Town and the places I’ve called home. Most of all, I hope this experience pushes me outside my comfort zone and gives me new perspectives that I can carry with me long after I return home. I’m excited to share my experiences and lessons with you all, and I can’t wait to hear about your journeys throughout the school year!
Want to know more about how you can study or intern abroad when you are a college student? The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program is a program of the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and supported in its implementation by the Institute of International Education (IIE). Learn more about the scholarship by visiting www.gilmanscholarship.org.
