Friday, July 2, 2010

It has begun

After 7 days of training in Chicago, 2 days of travelling and 3 days of training in India, we have finally begun our internships! I had my first day at the Foundation for Ecological Security (FES) today, and am really excited to work with them for the next 6 weeks.

This program is called Global Engagement Summer Institute through Northwestern University, that trains students from all over the US and world in Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) and matches us with organizations in four different countries to assist in development projects. I am working on a team with three other students (Adreinne, Kimberly, and Amanda) with FES, which is a non-profit that works in reforestation and other environmental areas.

Last night we (Stephanie and I) moved in with our host family, too! They are a more modern Indian family, and very kind. I'm really excited to get to know them more.

As the very first post I'll keep this short, but I have learned a TON so far about development and about India, and will share some of the highlights and an overview of the work we will be doing. Today the monsoon started! Many people were hoping it would come as soon as possible, as it's been a very dry couple of years. In fact, the City of Lakes (aka Udaipur) is actually a City of Feilds right now.

Thanks for your interest in my trip; talk to you later!

3 comments:

  1. Glad to hear you got to India safe and sound! Seems like you have some fun times ahead and you should definitely post pictures during your adventure as well! :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I figured you didn't get to see too many fireworks on the 4th over in India. Here's a little taste of home for ya, I caught the finale of our show on video! Make sure you put it on 720p!

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89gYkCHSiY0

    I know you don't have frequent access to the internet there but I hope you enjoy it if you see this! :)

    ReplyDelete