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Daniel Quarcoopome moved from his native Ghana to pursue a master\u2019s degree in history at UToledo. He chose the University for its academics, research support, welcoming community and affordable tuition.<\/p><\/div>\n
Quarcoopome graduated with a bachelor\u2019s degree in history from the University of Cape Coast in Ghana, with the long-term goal of obtaining a Ph.D. in history and becoming a university professor.<\/p>\n
For the next step in that goal \u2014 a master\u2019s degree in history \u2014 Quarcoopome determined that UToledo was his preferred destination.<\/p>\n
\u201cI chose UToledo because it had everything I was looking for: strong academics, great research support, a welcoming community and affordable tuition,\u201d Quarcoopome said. \u201cBut what really stood out to me was how helpful and supportive the professors of the history department were, even during my application process. They made me feel valued from the start and that meant a lot to me.\u201d<\/p>\n
Not that his transition was easy, he said.<\/p>\n
Being an international student, Quarcoopome had to adjust to a new academic and cultural environment, which has been at times challenging but also exceedingly rewarding.<\/p>\n
\u201cOne of my greatest challenges has been adjusting to a new academic system while also serving as a teaching assistant\u201d for Dr. Charles Beatty-Medina, a professor in the Department of History, he said. \u201cBalancing coursework, research and TA responsibilities required me to develop strong time management skills; however, this challenge has also been one of my greatest successes, as it has improved my ability to teach, communicate and manage academic responsibilities effectively.\u201d<\/p>\n
And as a Ghanaian, Quarcoopome has a viewpoint on world and U.S. history that many of his classmates may not have.<\/p>\n
\u201cMy background gives me a unique perspective on historical narratives, especially regarding African history, colonialism and global conflicts,\u201d Quarcoopome said. \u201cI also have an interest in the history of gun violence in American schools.\u201d<\/p>\n
Beatty-Medina said he has been impressed by Quarcoopome\u2019s adjustment to his new environs and growth as a graduate student.<\/p>\n
\u201cLearning a new culture and academic standard from an undergraduate is often daunting for students here in the United States,\u201d he said. \u201cDaniel has an excellent character and work ethic that have impressed his professors and fellow students.\u201d<\/p>\n
Quarcoopome said an important factor in his success as a Rocket has been campus involvement, in particular teaching and leading academic discussions as a teaching assistant and participating in research projects and history-related events.<\/p>\n
\u201cOne of the most memorable experiences has been the opportunity to engage in deep historical discussions with professors and fellow graduate students,\u201d he said. \u201cThe diversity of perspectives at UToledo has broadened my understanding of history, especially in areas like military history, colonial studies and cultural history.\u201d<\/p>\n
Nearly a year moving from the other side of the world to become a Rocket in pursuit of a master\u2019s degree in history, Quarcoopome said he would recommend that others consider doing the same \u2014 whether from thousands of miles away or just a few streets.<\/p>\n
\u201cStudying history at UToledo is both challenging and rewarding. The faculty members are supportive and there are many opportunities to engage in research, teaching and academic discussions,\u201d he said. \u201cI would also advise them to manage their time well, especially if they take on roles like being a TA, and to actively seek mentorship and networking opportunities within the department.\u201d<\/p>\n
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