George Duru Jr. is a UCR Electrical Engineering student who studied abroad on the No Boundaries Alternative Break Experience in Guyana. On this Opportunities Abroad Program (OAP), Black students from African Student Programs (ASP) met with notable people such as the U.S. Ambassador, Afro-Guyanese groups, and Guyanese business owners.

George admits he didn't know much about the country when he was nominated. He recalled asking, "Where is Guyana? Ok, it's in South America." However, as a first-generation Nigerian-American, George learned Guyana was similar to West Africa. For instance, fufu, a starchy Guyanese dish served with soup, "reminds me of Nigeria [where] they make it in a different way but with the same ingredients." Guyanese people make tamales, or "conkies," similar to Nigeria and Mexico, but with different fillings like pumpkin and banana.

George's favorite day was the group's visit to the University of Guyana. As an engineer, he enjoyed visiting engineering and physics buildings. During that day, a Guyanese storyteller spoke to the group, impressing George that "your past is really what made you who you are."

George will visit family in Nigeria for the first time this year and may study abroad again. His advice to others? "Be ready to learn and dive deep into what you will be learning."

More Information:

    Connect with George Duru, Jr., on LinkedIn.
    Read about education abroad opportunities like the Opportunities Abroad Program (OAP) at UCR.