As I packed my bags to fly off to the other side of the world, I was so excited to get to experience new cultures in India. While I can’t wait to see what’s in store, I’m also thrilled to learn more about traditional medicinal practices here in India and to enjoy the outdoors of the Himalayan foothills. With so much to see and do, I know that I will have the chance to learn new values from the cultures around me to continue to grow as a person in my perceptions of the world. In addition, my time spent here learning more about medicinal practices and emergency wilderness medicine will help me to grow professionally in my own career interests.

Now that I’ve finally arrived to India, I’ve already had the chance to learn so many new things that I never expected, even in just a few days. Through various hiking treks, I’ve had the chance to explore how nature plays a role in the health of those who live in the area and to take time to enjoy the stunning landscape of the Himalayas. Traveling through local villages, I’ve seen how everyday life is different yet similar to my own in so many unique ways and can’t wait for the chance to learn more.

Despite the challenges of adjusting to a new place, high altitudes, new foods, and learning new cultures, I am so happy that I took the leap to travel around the world and experience it in a new light with others motivated to do the same.

I’m so excited to share more about what’s to come and to continue experiencing new cultures while learning about emergency wilderness medicine here in the Himalayas for the next six amazing weeks.