In a not-so-distant past, a group of fourteen students from Corlaer College, accompanied by their two teachers, Ruud and Marcel, embarked on a nine-day educational visit to the enchanting land of Nepal. Their journey was filled with exploration, cultural immersion, and community service, leaving them with memories to last a lifetime.
The students, aged 15-16, were bubbling with excitement as they set foot in Nepal, eager to experience the rich culture and diverse geography of this beautiful country. Their itinerary was packed with visits to historical and iconic sites, including the renowned Pashupatinath Temple, the mesmerizing Swayambhunath Stupa, and the captivating Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Here, they delved into the art, history, and religious traditions of Nepal, gaining a deeper understanding of the country’s heritage.
But this educational journey was not just about sightseeing; it was also about giving back to the community. The students were determined to make a positive impact on the places they visited. One of their significant contributions took place at the CBIA school, where they participated in a series of community service activities. They decorated classrooms, creating vibrant and inspiring educational murals that would brighten the learning environment for local students. The students also got a chance to play with the school kids, bringing smiles to their faces and forging heartwarming connections. Additionally, they took it upon themselves to clean up the neighborhood, leaving it a cleaner and more beautiful place for the residents.
To cap off their incredible journey, the group ventured into the heart of the wild, taking part in a thrilling jungle safari in Chitwan. Here, they were surrounded by the natural beauty of Nepal’s jungles and the possibility of encountering exotic wildlife. Their adventure allowed them to spot majestic Bengal tigers, awe-inspiring rhinoceroses, and gentle giants like elephants. The experience of being in such close proximity to these magnificent creatures left a lasting impression on the students, deepening their appreciation for the importance of wildlife conservation.
The educational visit to Nepal was more than just a trip; it was a transformative experience for the students from Corlaer College. They returned home with not only a newfound knowledge of Nepal’s culture and history but also a sense of fulfillment from their community service efforts and a profound respect for the natural world. This journey was a reminder that travel can be a powerful tool for learning, growth, and building connections with people and places far beyond our own.
As the memories of their adventures in Nepal lingered in their hearts and minds, the students of Corlaer College undoubtedly carried the lessons and experiences of this trip with them, shaping their perspective on the world in a profound way.