Hello everyone!
I’ve been having an amazing time and learning so much these past few weeks. India, and the school where I’m staying, are incredibly different from Pittsburgh and my hometown. Here are a few highlights from my experience:
First, we have two chai (tea) breaks every day—one at 10:30 AM and another at 3:30 PM. These breaks provide a much-needed pause amidst our busy schedule, allowing us to recharge with a snack and some relaxation. It’s a delightful tradition that I’d love to see adopted in America.
Second, there are monkeys everywhere! They’re quite mischievous, so we have to be vigilant. The locals frequently remind us to keep our doors closed and our bags secure, as the monkeys are known for stealing things.
Typical Day in India
A typical day here shares some similarities with my routine at home. I wake up early to watch the sunrise—though the American sunrise pales in comparison to the stunning ones over the Himalayas. Breakfast is at 7:30 AM, and then I head to class from 8:30 AM to 5 PM. After class, I enjoy spending time outdoors, either reading or hanging out with friends.
But the surroundings here are far more captivating. We’re nestled in a wooded area with diverse wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and wild dogs. It’s a treat to watch the monkeys and dogs interact or to see the brilliantly colored birds flying around.
In the mornings, the chirping of 6-10 different bird species, creating a symphony of natural sounds as I watch the sunrise, is almost the only noise for what seems like miles. The smells are equally distinct; the masala seasoning, a staple in almost every dish we eat, can be smelled from within almost any environment.
