TII: This is India. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was heavy considering the schedule, but I could manage it. There was a lot of integration of knowledge through everything we did, which was very, very nice. The contemplative aspect was refreshing. Meditating for two hours every day and living with everyone were two of my favorite aspects of the program. Not to mention the opportunity to learn and live at the center of the Buddhist world. Unbelievable.

On-site administration of your program

The support was fantastic. All the teachers and advisors were easily accessible and really caring. While we were all at the whim of India, things were done as swiftly as they possibly could be. They made us feel much more prepared to live in the culture of a foreign country. The size of the program was perfect. There were enough people to always have someone around who you cared about, but did not get too much cabin fever either.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We lived in a Burmese monastery close to the center of town. The location was excellent as it was just a 10 minute walk to the temple and there were several small shops nearby. No nightlife. We slept early and woke up early too. The food was great and we had tea time twice a day. Most students stayed in doubles with another student from the program. In some other houses in the complex, monks and pilgrims stayed for as little as one night to the length of the entire program. Most necessities were provided like sheets and a mosquito net, but we had to purchase our own toiletries and toilet paper.

All the food was vegetarian and delicious. Always promptly served, lots of condiments! The program provides a list of local restaurants that are fantastic. Om Cafe is a must once it opens in late fall. Eat lots of roti and naan. Love the daal, embrace it.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Many festivals in town. Really rowdy and great to participate in. If there are any prayer festivals at the Mahabodhi temple, be sure to go and sit for a while. Soak in the chants. Be sure to go to Varanasi on at least one of the long weekends and go to any field trips that are offered. The banyan tree is also fantastic. Also if you see any lights on the dry river bed at night, it may be a cremation ceremony. Bring a friend and be kind to the dogs.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

It is best for women to be with someone else most of the time. Especially at night, be alert. The program does a great job at addressing many safety issues and concerns. Watch out for the traffic. Accidents are common and can be deadly. You will most probably get sick. It's India. Be sure to bring anti-diarrheal medicine and gatorade or a powdered electrolyte supplement. They are also available for purchase in India, but are not as tasty. You will learn how to listen to your body, and I found that most of the time when I didn't feel my best, I was just dehydrated. It is likely that some people on the program will get more sick than others. Do not hesitate to let others know when you're feeling unwell. You'll have a health buddy and there are clinics nearby. Prior to the trip, be sure to acquire the necessary vaccines and bring anti-malarial medication. Be aware that they are not 100% effective. Wear a lot of bug spray to avoid bites, eat healthily, and get some daily exercise. Vitamin supplements were also really helpful for me to stay healthy for almost the entire trip. At first it will take a while for your body to get used to the climate and water, so be sure to drink a lot of bottled or filtered water. I bought a UV-purification pen and it was very useful.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

We had daily practice sessions with local teachers who were native Hindi speakers. The students also practiced amongst themselves. I also spoke with many shopkeepers and other local residents. I did not need to use the host country language in everyday interactions, but it did help to gain trust and develop friendships. Enough people spoke English to get by without needing to know the language.

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