The day started at 8:30 am when we rushed to the Hospital. No one was hurt, we just needed to get a medical report done to enter our 10-day hiking location. We got our BP and blood report done. We then returned and started our regular WAFA training. It was the last day of WAFA, so we needed to also end the day by doing an exam to get a WAFA certificate. We all passed so that is good. We have a prep day tomorrow for the 10-day trek. We leave on the morning of the 13th and come back on the 24th, so the next blog will be then. Hopefully, everything goes well.
The answers to the questions are listed below:
Have you confronted different cultural and ethical norms while abroad? How are you managing working with these differences?
- I have confronted different cultural and ethical norms while abroad in India. Coming from Nepal and having lived in the US for all my teen years, I have experienced a mix of cultures and norms. In India, I’ve encountered various practices and beliefs that are different from what I am accustomed to. The value of hierarchy and deference to elders is one instance of a cultural standard I’ve noticed in India. While respect for elders is also respected in both American and Nepali cultures, interactions with persons of different ages and positions are frequently conducted in a more relaxed manner. To manage working with this difference, I’ve made an effort to be more conscious of respecting Indian cultural norms. I’ve learned to respect seniors and those in positions of authority by using proper titles and language and being aware of how I behave in social situations.
Can leaders ever follow other people—or do they always need to lead? Why or why not?
- Leaders can also follow other people because I see a leader as someone who influences the team and works for the betterment of the whole team and not just for themselves. Anyone can be a leader if their work helps the entire team and works to improve the team.
What are you looking forward to on the upcoming trek? What are your anxieties/concerns and how will you predict addressing these?
- I am not looking forward to the trek but at the same time, I am a little excited too because it is something that I have never done before. After going through the WAFA training, I have learned about so many different injuries that are concerning me however I hope to stay safe and successfully complete the trek. I hope I do not end up hurting my back again. I am preparing to stay close to the team and always keep safety in mind before getting involved in any kinds of activities.