An Unforgettable Abroad Experience July 14, 2023

By (Anthropology, University of Richmond) - abroad from 02/04/2023 to 05/19/2023 with

SIT Study Abroad: Nepal - Tibetan and Himalayan Peoples

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Participating in the study abroad program in Nepal and India was a truly enriching experience. Beyond academics, it was a journey of personal growth and cultural immersion. Living with local families, I witnessed their resilience in preserving traditions amidst geopolitical changes, which deepened my empathy and understanding of different cultures. The program also offered unique insights into religious identities, enhancing my appreciation for cultural diversity. The process of creating my Independent Study Project in a different cultural context was a valuable exercise in observation and introspection. I wholeheartedly recommend this program for its transformative impact and the lifelong learning it fosters.

Review Photos

SIT Study Abroad: Nepal - Tibetan and Himalayan Peoples Photo SIT Study Abroad: Nepal - Tibetan and Himalayan Peoples Photo SIT Study Abroad: Nepal - Tibetan and Himalayan Peoples Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

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

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • School lunches
  • Homestays
  • Community and Location
* What could be improved?
  • Packing List
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Absolutely nothing. This program is truly special due to its unpredictability. The element of surprise and wonder is what makes this program an extraordinary journey.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Nearly Native or Trail Blazer
Craving the most authentic experience possible, perhaps you lived with a host family or really got in good with the locals. You may have felt confined by your program requirements and group excursions. Instead, you'd have preferred to plan your own trips, even skipping class to conduct your own 'field work.'