University of Wollongong students live with Tibetan family

We have so enjoyed being placed with a Tibetan family, not only to get to know them each as individuals but to reach a greater understanding of the struggles of Tibetan people. We have gained a much greater appreciation of our free and fortunate lives, and will continue to support Tibetan people.

A major highlight of this trip for us all has been the trek to Poon Hill, which was one of the most challenging yet rewarding things. The kindness and generosity of the Tibetan and Nepali people here, always sharing a sense of humour even when faced with adversity has been an opportunity for some of us to consider how to change the ways that we look at and experience our lives in the west
An experience of a lifetime which we highly recommend. Some of us will most definitely return to Nepal.

There have been a number of different experiences that each of us have had, we have experienced life with different Tibetan families and also in different educational organizations. All of us have been most fortunate to have caring and kind families who cook the most awesome food everyday. Way better than you can buy in the tourist hub of Lakeside. Although the living conditions are different to those in the west they are comfortable and cosy.... Bring warm clothes as well as the nights are beginning to get cold as we edge closer to December.

A couple of volunteers went to a Monastic School, here we have experienced the hardships of 78 children from extremely poor families from the Mustang region. Whilst these children are doing things way tougher than we see in our own country they have a lot of fun with very simple things in life such as a bottle top cap....

As a teacher, one of the volunteers says, "I have enjoyed my time at the school, and was welcomed with open arms by the principal and head teacher. They have been eager to share the Nepali culture with me and have created many opportunities for me to enjoy cultural and spiritual events. I have faced challenges as my teaching philosophy is very different to that of the school that I volunteered at, but I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to share ideas and learn from the teachers here."

A few of us have been on another trek to Dhampus....... totally amazing and a must do two night, three day experience. Don't use a trekking company, just ask your in country agent at the Tibetan settlement. Much cheaper, a higher level of care and way more personal than the commercial ventures. Don't forget to tip the guide and porter and take snacks for energy boosts along the way.

That's it for us, most of us leave this week and head on back to Australia. Taking home memories and experiences for a lifetime.

UOW Education Placement in Nepal, 2011