1)India is Warm – As a country closer to the equator, the temperatures are obviously warmer – ‘peak winters’ is no more than a chilly Autumn day. As living here has shown me, however, India is warm not only physically, but metaphorically. Without fail, everyone I have met here is genuinely interested in my experience and well-being whether it be my (host) family or the auto driver calling me to check whether I am on my way.
2)India is Colorful –Whether it be the decorated trucks with their musical horns or the tricolor flags waving in the breeze while their carried by vendors in the streets, I am always surrounded by color - through its many religions, cultures, and languages as well. 3)India is Chaotic – Entering my host community (city rather) was quite a daunting experience for me – there were so many people everywhere. But now, I am not sure I could live without the chaos. Here, I hope it’s clear that chaos is not a negative term. With the constant honking, crowded streets and buildings, I find a certain comfort in being amongst it all. 4)India is Rich – Despite the glaring wealth gap that is found in India, everyone and everything here is very rich. I have talked with people from many walks of life here, and everyone of them has had a meaningful contribution to my exchange. From speaking with the Amitasha girls who come from a poorer background to a retired Indian Ambassador, each has enriched my experience. 5)India is Developing – As a whole, India is technically considered to be developing. What this means to me as an exchange student, is the opportunity to see a country which has not only an ancient history and meaningful culture, but also is quickly incorporating outside cultures and the change here is very exciting. Though it is sometimes confusing to my eyes to see very modern buildings and old dirt roads coexist, it represents the exciting transformation of India and gives me the best opportunity to become a global citizen. 6)India is Incredible - How many of you have heard the expression ‘Incredible India’? Well, it’s true. I see or try something new almost every single day. In the literal sense, it is hard to believe that the same place that has a modern metro and road system also has donkeys and cows wandering about. Surprises are everywhere here, and the experience is unparalleled. 7)India is Home - The more time I spend away from my ‘home’ country, the more I feel at home in my ‘host’ country. For the above-mentioned reasons and more that cannot be expressed in words, I have fallen in love with India, with all its unique features, the people it houses and the experiences and opportunities it has given me. Seven months ago to the day, I boarded an airplane whose three wheels leaving the ground of the United States represented my last physical connection to my home country for nearly a year. As all the landmark dates passed by me – 100 days in country, 200 days, and even the halfway point – I am coming to realize what India really means to me. With only three months left in this amazingly diverse country, I am sure India will continue to surprise me. But, with surprise comes extraordinary experiences I cannot wait to have.
3 Comments
Julie
1/29/2018 04:18:00 pm
Clever post! Your time there is really flying.
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dad
2/12/2018 02:48:20 am
It's amazing what you can get used to, once you take the blinders off!
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Mom
3/6/2018 08:20:14 pm
8 Points about My Daughter after 8 Months in India
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AuthorNamaste! Mera naam Anna hai! Hi! my name is Anna. Please enjoy reading about my experience as a high school junior in India and ask any questions you may have! Archives
June 2019
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