Everything to Gain: Student Rhoda Basoah
Rhoda Basoah is a JCU student pursuing a B.A. in Psychological Science with a minor in International Affairs. Rhoda is currently participating in JCU’s Direct Exchange program, and she is studying abroad at Rider University in New Jersey.
Tell us about your background.
I was born in Italy to Ghanaian parents. I am Italian as much as I am Ghanaian, (more especially, Ashanti). I was raised in Palazzolo Sull’Oglio, a small city in the Lombardy region. I have always been interested in learning more about other cultures because it allows me to interact with people from many different backgrounds, develop a more global perspective, and value and appreciate my roots even more. I will always be grateful to JCU for providing me with exactly what I was hoping for—a global community and a thorough immersion in various cultures!
What made you decide to participate in JCU’s Direct Exchange Program and study abroad at Rider University?
The Direct Exchange Program is one of the reasons why I chose JCU. It has been fulfilling to finally have the opportunity to study abroad, as I have always wanted to do. I chose Rider University for several reasons. Their psychology department offers a variety of courses that I had been hoping to enroll in but could not find at JCU. I’m taking some pretty cool courses right now, like Professional Development and Personality, which are helping me figure out what I want to do after I graduate. Its location—perfectly positioned between New York and Philadelphia—is another factor. This was an essential detail for me since, even though I want to make the most of my time in America, stability and safety are also key factors. This way, I get the best of both worlds! Another reason is Rider University’s Student Life, which is packed with exciting events! I am so excited about the “Ebony Ball” coming up!
What is the most surprising/best part of studying abroad? What’s your best study abroad story so far?
I’d say the people here are the best thing about studying abroad. I was pleasantly surprised by how nice and cheerful everyone is. I was worried initially that I wouldn’t be able to make friends here, but I’ve had no trouble at all because most of the people around me are kind and friendly. I do not doubt that the relationships I am building right now are going to last a lifetime. Just as the university’s motto says, Rider really is a “Home Away From Home”. My trip to Philadelphia with a few other study-abroad students is probably the best story I have (for now). We had a great day filled with lots of walking, laughing, and typical tourist activities.
How is your experience in the classroom similar and different from your experience at JCU?
Compared to JCU, the classes here are a little bit bigger. It turns out that my initial concern that this would discourage interactions between students and professors was wrong. Similar to JCU, the emphasis is on student involvement. Here, during class discussions, everyone engages and fully participates. Most people offer a unique perspective and insight to the themes discussed by applying their own experiences to them. It’s intriguing because every time I walk out of class, I feel more knowledgeable, also thanks to my peers. I am blessed to have landed in classes with great people, and I really enjoy it since I always leave feeling more intellectually and emotionally satisfied.
So far, what has been the most challenging and most rewarding part of your experience? What do you hope to learn from it?
Initially, I was missing my family quite a bit. Since I spent the same amount of time away from my home while attending JCU, I wasn’t expecting to feel homesick. But I suppose that being in a completely new setting and not hearing “Ciao” and “Buongiorno” makes me long for home more than usual. But my friends here really make it worthwhile. Most of them are also study abroad students but from different countries, so despite our cultural differences, we are all going through the same things, which helps us find comfort in each other. Additionally, my new church friends also make me feel welcome: our shared faith gives me a sense of belonging, which makes me feel at home. I am truly appreciative of my new family and friends here.
What advice would you give to JCU students considering studying abroad at a partner university?
I’d say go for it! It will be a life-changing and unforgettable experience. I am learning so much about American culture as well as myself. Moreover, I am finally figuring out what I want to do with my career. I am only two months in now, and I already have so much to look forward to and not one single regret! Take a chance—you have everything to gain and nothing to lose!
