Dzigbodi Gbenyedzi

Overall Experience

Although I am originally from Africa, this is my first time visiting Ghana. From departure to arrival and throughout our stay, it has been a wonderful experience. Like many parts of Africa, the people were kind and welcoming. We spent four weeks at the Nutrition Research and Training Center in Assesewa, a small town located at 58miles form Accra. During our stay, we were joined by students from the University of Ghana, who helped us gain a deeper understanding of Ghanaian culture and cuisine. Being immersed in the local community and learning about its history and traditions has greatly helped us with nutrition recommendations for the community.

Learning experience

Our internship in Ghana provided us with numerous learning opportunities. From community data collection to analysis, discussions, and interventions, we gained valuable experience in teamwork, learned new data analysis methods, and embraced cultural integration to ensure our interventions had a meaningful impact on the population. Because of different food backgrounds and dietary guidelines, we learn mainly the importance of cultural competence.

Memorable experience

The entire month was a memorable experience for me. It was wonderful to return to Africa and enjoy some of the childhood foods and activities, such as visiting the market and going to the miller and mistress. I was delighted to savor traditional meals. The community data collection and the local radio visit to discuss women and anemia were both significant highlights. Additionally, I appreciated the opportunity to present our intervention to the community through a song and sketch that we created on our last day.

What did you not expect?

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that researchers in Africa are focusing on highlighting the nutritional benefits of local foods to combat malnutrition, rather than importing nutrient-dense foods from the US or Europe. For instance, the prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in Ghana is alarmingly high. However, there are certain plants rich in iron that, when combined with citrus fruits known for their vitamin C content, could help address iron deficiency, according to local researchers. Their efforts emphasize the importance of using existing local resources to help the community overcome malnutrition. This presents a valuable opportunity for me as a dietitian to deepen my understanding of my community and to recognize the resources available before proposing any nutritional interventions.

What advice would you give?

To have a truly enriching experience while studying abroad, I urge everyone to approach this journey with an open mind and a willingness to embrace new perspectives. What you may perceive as normal in your home country can vary widely across cultures, and these differences can yield valuable lessons and unforgettable moments. Embracing this diversity not only enhances your education but also deepens your understanding of the world and its many fascinating cultures.

How has this experience impacted your life?

This experience has been truly enlightening for me. I’ve observed that cultures in Africa differ significantly from one region to another. During my visit to a community in Ghana, I noticed both similarities and differences with my own country, such as distinct languages and unique cooking styles. This valuable learning opportunity has reinforced my belief that every individual is unique. While there may be commonalities, it’s crucial to ask questions rather than make assumptions based on appearances or shared dialects. Building rapport with clients by understanding their backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs is an excellent way to encourage strong recommendations, which will benefit me in my career.

How did you learn about this experience?

I learned about this opportunity through an email a professor at Iowa State University shared with all Dietetics students.

International Connections