India 2013

Hi! My name is Supriya. I'm an incoming Junior at the University of Michigan studying Neuroscience, and interested in international studies, Hindi (language), traveling and volunteering. I aspire to work in medicine and also am interested in the global health field. This summer, I will be travelling to India through the Khorana Program, to live and work at an Indian university, research and volunteer in the local community, as well.
You might be wondering why, being from India, I've chosen to work in India. Growing up, I always felt connected to India- through the stories family told me about the country, and my own family's history in the country. As I got older, I began appreciating India's truly vibrant culture and people. Each time I take a trip there, I feel enthusiastic about returning, which really shows me that deep down, I love this country- as a home, a haven.
I can count the number of trips I've taken to India on two hands- nearly 9 times, each less than a month long. This will be the first trip longer than a month, but also the first time I'll be able to truly immerse myself in the communities in India. Volunteering with an NGO in India will be an especially unique experience, and doing research at an Indian institution will be invaluable academically, allowing me to compare my research experiences in Michigan and abroad. In many ways, this trip will be a testament to my ability to be so far from the familiar things in my life- family, friends, American "culture", and the simple things like food and my neighborhood. However, I believe that I will gain so much by traveling to my parents' homeland. I'll learn about my family and culture, explore research and academic paths in another country, and perhaps most significantly, explore my passion for this amazing nation.
  This blog will help me share my experiences in India, and develop new perspectives and ideas.
I'm so excited for this incredible opportunity, and for the chance to reflect on it!