In an exciting partnership, UC International and the College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) at the University of Cincinnati (UC) sent 13 students on a transformative journey to Ghana during their spring break. The trip aimed to broaden students’ horizons, immerse them in Ghanaian culture, and expand their understanding of engineering in different contexts. Led by Cedrick Kwuimy, alongside Nora Honken, faculty members from UC’s Department of Engineering and Computing Education, the students embarked on a 10-day adventure filled with exploration and valuable learning experiences.
Engaging Itinerary and Cultural Immersion
The trip’s itinerary encompassed a diverse range of activities, providing the students with a comprehensive Ghanaian experience. From the bustling capital of Accra to the historically significant Cape Coast, the group journeyed across the country, including stops in Takoradi and Kumasi, before concluding their adventure back in Accra. The journey allowed the students to appreciate Ghana’s rich history, traditions, and cuisine while exploring the country’s captivating landscapes and enjoying moments of relaxation on the beach.
As part of the Global Technical Workforce course within CEAS, the trip offered students valuable insights into the application of engineering principles within different cultural contexts. The students had the opportunity to attend lectures at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, where they engaged with topics directly relevant to their studies. They also visited engineering companies, gaining firsthand exposure to different operational processes and witnessing how engineering practices can be shaped by societal and cultural factors.
Personal and Academic Transformations
For many of the students, this was their first international travel experience. Temple Corbett, a third-year chemical engineering student, described the journey as life-changing. It not only broadened her perspective on the world but also led her to form deep connections with fellow students, transcending the boundaries of their academic disciplines. Alex Ravagnani, a third-year aerospace engineering student, highlighted the exceptional hospitality he experienced in Ghana, leaving an indelible impression on him and fostering a desire to return to the country in the future.
The trip to Ghana exemplified UC’s commitment to providing students with real-world learning opportunities. By participating in co-op jobs, joining student organizations, and engaging in global experiences, such as this one, UC engineering students gain invaluable skills that prepare them for successful careers. Deborah Cole-Taylor, a third-year chemical engineering student, emphasized the importance of UC’s global connections in expanding students’ networks and equipping them with unique academic, professional, and personal experiences.
The partnership between UC International and CEAS continues to shape the trajectory of students’ lives, cultivating a new generation of engineers with a global mindset.
