It's hard to sum up three months into just a few paragraphs… A year ago, I never would
have imagined myself embarking on an adventure to the other side of the globe and now here I sit, reflecting on my time as a Tare at Sangam. How thankful I am for this amazing and life changing experience!
For three months, I worked at Anand Gram School teaching English to the children who live on site as well as in the nearby village. This position was equal parts challenging and rewarding as learned to how teach within a different education system. Spending time with each class of
students from 3rd Standard all the way up to 7th Standard was always exciting and their enthusiasm for learning English made riding the bus to school each day completely worth it.
I feel that, even in the short time we had with them, I have helped to make a lasting impact on their understanding of the world beyond them, as well as the potential they have to go out and accomplish great things. Seeing their smiling faces each day as also reaffirmed that I have this potential too; they have taught me just as much, if not more, than I have taught them.
As a part of the Community Programme, you are able to immerse yourself in so many aspects of Indian culture all while living in the safe and supportive environment that Sangam naturally gives. Being a Tare, I gained more than just friends, I gained a family. The time I have shared with everyone here will be treasured forever. We have laughed together and cried together, sharing and supporting each other in our journeys. I am coming away from this experience with a better understanding of myself, a renewed passion for education, and a desire to promote awareness of global issues. This truly has been the most amazing time and it has been a privilege to share it with such wonderful people. I can't wait for our paths to cross again.
So now this chapter is closing and a new one is beginning. I'm not sure what it will hold, but I am confident that it's going to be great. Once I get used to a new, colder climate, that is. One thing is for certain, though, I see India in my future again.
