Hi everyone! My name is Krystal, and I just got back from spending five and a half weeks in the mountains of India. I decided to really immerse myself in my experience, and remove myself from the world back at home in order to take my study abroad experience all in. However, I’ve kept a journal documenting my experiences from the very beginning to the very end, which I will be sharing with you guys now!
The main reason why I chose to go to India for my study abroad was because it is a location that would be difficult for me to travel to on my own. It really is a country that is so different compared to the United States. It is also a country that is very much misunderstood. Coming to India, I wanted to see how people lived their lives and see what is considered “normal” for them on the other side of the planet. With a history spanning over thousands of years, India has developed a complex society with vibrant traditions and customs that can seem foreign. This study abroad experience embraces these differences and pushes students to challenge the convention of what has been considered “normal” in Western society. The bustling streets and open markets will feel intimidating and alien, but putting myself in these environments is how I will challenge biases and expand my perspectives. This is how I wanted to grow personally: to see how big the world is, and to see how many different ways there are to live life.
Professionally, I hoped that this study abroad experience would shape me into a more encompassing healthcare provider. The main course that I would be taking is Mountains and Medicine, which explores alternative healthcare treatments. This would give me greater perspective on what therapies can be used in combination with Western biomedicine. Alternative therapies are often overlooked in Western medicine, which tends to prioritize medication and technological interventions. However, studying these holistic medicines provides valuable insights. Though medication and technological interventions may physically provide solutions to disease, humans are not their disease alone. Holistic medicine, such as yoga, utilize a comprehensive approach to health, taking into account the emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of wellbeing. When medications are used in partnership with holistic treatments, healthcare providers take into consideration the factors of a patient that leave them feeling whole and fulfilled. Furthermore, the opportunity to shadow physicians at a local hospital will give me perspective on what it is like to practice medicine in such a remote area in the mountains. I also will be taking a Wilderness First Responder course. As someone that loves the outdoors, these skills and certifications will definitely come in handy.
I remember journaling for hours on the plane flight there!! I was nervous and excited! I wondered if I would change as a person at the end of these five and a half weeks.
Sunset over the Himalaya from my plane window:
