Final Reflections
Having travelled to many countries across the world, Bhutan and India were two unique experiences of polar opposites. Beginning with Bhutan, a carbon negative country of only 700,000 people where happiness is the key government concern, I learned of their unique and very young history, that developed learning from the mistakes of major countries and its increasing areas of development through which the Bhutanese people can grow their country and ideals across the world. In contrast, India a country surrounded in smog from fossil fuel emissions on top of its rapidly increasing population, has immense religious heritage as the birth place of many religions and scattered amongst the people and villages, intricate and intensely spiritual monuments in honor of these religions.
Suyin D.
There many words that come to mind when I think back on my time in Bhutan and here in India; amazement, diversity, young, traditional, crowded. Amazement is the word I have to use for Bhutan, everything about this small country was amazing from the lading to the airport to the actual airport, to the people, and culture, and land. Being a small country in the middle of two massive countries is definitely a struggle but at every moment of my stay, I saw the effort everyone puts in to keep Bhutan the way it is.
Diversity, crowded, and amazing is how I would describe India. A massive country, a massive economy, a massive population, massive cities. The diversity of people and religion is just amazing, how can so many differences work so well with so many people.
Both countries are unique and special, and I am just in awe, I can't believe that I had the opportunity to come and experience all of this for myself. I am truly grateful that Dr. Goswami encouraged me to come, it was truly a once in a lifetime experience. And thank you TAMUK, my University!
Natasha L.
My experience in Bhutan was definitely something I wasn't expecting, and I never thought I would fall in love with a country. My experiences in India really opened my eyes to a culture so different from mine and the knowledge I gained from this trip is something I'll carry with me for the rest of my life.
Jodi S.
This trip to Bhutan and India has truly been a once in a lifetime experience with all the people, food, culture, and monuments I got to meet, try, and see along the way. Which allowed, as cheesy as it may sound, for a few more of my dreams to become a reality. Dreams which have helped me find my true self, something that will hopefully benefit me in my future endeavors.
Richard K.
Bhutan and India have taught me so much I did not know previously. For the first international travel experience, visiting the soon-to-be largest country and a country so remote many Texans do not know was amazing. Bhutan taught me about Buddhist practices I learned from and India showed me a complex culture with roots deeper than any country I have ever been in. The largest thing I am taking home is spiritual happiness. Regardless of the havoc that surrounds our lives, sometimes the best thing to do is take a deep breath and appreciate the world around us.
Nicholas S.
Throughout this trip, I have had the pleasure of experiencing the magnificent countries of Bhutan and India. Both countries are stunning in very different ways. India has stunning feats of architecture such as in the Taj Mahal, while Bhutan takes pride in its traditions, culture, and pristine environment. One with the tiniest of populations and economies; the other with two of the largest.
Kaley D.
What strikes me as the most interesting aspect of this study abroad program is the contrast between Bhutan and India despite their proximity. Ultimately the former heightened my awareness of the world around me whereas the latter taught me to make the best out of any situation. I will cherish the memories we have made together for the rest of my life.
Katrina S.