Gearing Up For Ghana

A little under two weeks until I leave for Ghana! I thought that the closer it got to departure time the more the excitement would overcome the nervousness, but it hasn't...yet. I think most of that is still not knowing my placement. I understand the process, but I must say that I'm anxious to finally know. Fear of the unknown has always been my greatest obstacle to overcome because I build it up so much in my head. I just finished reading a blog by one of the past Ghana volunteers and her experience sounded amazing! Frustrating, daunting at times, but amazing nonetheless. I hope I can rise to the occasion like she seemed to do.

I also thought that I'd done a lot of research into what to pack and what to expect, but again the truth leaves me feeling a little overwhelmed at the moment. After today, reading posts by past volunteers (which were EXTREMELY helpful) I realized that there are so many things I haven't even begun to think about or get ready and I don't have much time left. The next 10 days are going to be so busy as I try to keep in mind everything I need to still do.

Don't get me wrong, I am VERY excited about this trip. I think this will end up being one of the best decisions of my life. However, it's also nerve racking. I've tried to talk to my family and friends about how I'm feeling but I pretty much get the same response: you've traveled before and studied abroad, what are you nervous about? I don't know how to answer that question. Because I'm trying to battle preconceived notions (positive and negative) of the country, the continent, and the people? Because it'll be the first time in my life that I'm traveling by myself, without anyone else that I know? Because not only will I be adjusting to the culture shock, I will more than likely have daunting responsibilities at the placement site? All of the above? I know that once I get there, I'll just need to take it one day at a time. However, I think the idea of being placed in a school is the most exciting and the most overwhelming. I always feel responsible for the kids I teach and I know it would be a struggle to teach in a foreign country.

Now that I've worked myself up in a frenzy, I probably won't be able to sleep tonight without making a dozen or so to-do lists to try to organize the tumultuous feelings I'm having right now. Once I'm on the plane, however, I hope that the nervous fades into the background...leaving only the excitement and anticipation!