Nepal: It seems somewhat disrespectful to put it in a catchphrase - Himalayan Buddhist Art & Architecture Past Review
By Vaida R (Psychology, Harvard University) for
SIT Study Abroad: Reviews from Former Locations
It enriched my understanding of meditation, which was my goal going there to begin with
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 6 months+ |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
It is an intensive course that requires regular work, but the materials are not incredibly difficult and chances are that a student will find himself less stressed than during the academic year |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The program administration were very knowledgeable about the challenges a western student could encounter in Nepal and very helpful with all issues that arose. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
The program does not provide housing but the administration is very helpful with finding affordable housing in the neighborhood. |
| * Food: |
Don't eat street food. Ask around for dinner recommendations. The Shedra Cafe is great |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
there were several memorable visits to the neighboring attractions such as Patan, |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Don't walk alone after dark. I did not experience serious health issues, so I do not know how well health emergencies are handled, but it seems that the administrators were always able to recommend a doctor in case of flues or stomach bugs. The most prevalent health issues are stomach flu and other food related maladies. I remember taking tetanus, hepatitis b and typhoid shots. Some shots can be taken at the travel clinic in Nepal for half the price. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | 15-20$ |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | find out how much things are supposed to cost from people who live there and bargain |
Language
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | None |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | It is a great program if you want and introduction to Tibetan Buddhism. It is fairly academically rigorous though, so might not be the perfect choice if you just want to travel, relax and interact with the locals |
