During the month of december, for a span of seven days we were taken to Dhanpari, Gujarat. The goal of this trip was to experience rural life. This included staying away from mobiles, technology, privileges of fancy bedrooms,and fancy food. We had to live in campsites with the minimal arrangements such as basic hygiene and food. Along with this, we engaged in many activities throughout the 7 days we stayed there.
LO1 – Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth
One notable instance was during a three-hour trek through various mountains. I recognized a weakness in my balance, where I often stepped on the wrong rocks. This shows a need for improvement in my coordination and awareness.
On the other hand, I discovered strengths in activities such as rappelling and adventure courses. Additionally, during a group cooking activity, I coordinated effectively to prepare delicious food. However, the most significant area for growth was during our visit to a local school where we interacted with children. Engaging with the kids highlighted a gap in my ability to effectively communicate with them. Furthermore, we had to join them to do a local dance. This was also my weak point as I felt shy and embarrassed to dance with the kids.
LO2 – Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills,
During the rural immersion, numerous challenges pushed me out of my comfort zone.One challenge was staying away from home and family for six days without access to mobile phones. This forced me to communicate and interact more with my friends.This experience taught me independence.Furthermore, the minimal housing provided to us presented its own set of challenges. With malfunctioning flushes, and shared showers, maintaining hygiene became a daily struggle. However, rather than being upset and complaining about the discomfort,me and my friends openly took on these challenges .
LO4 – Show perseverance and commitment in CAS experience.
Demonstrating perseverance and commitment became very crucial in between.One test of my commitment was enduring a three-hour trek in the scorching heat, despite trekking not being my favorite activity. The physical exertion and discomfort tested my endurance, but I remained committed. Additionally, being away from home and family, with the absence of phones, presented its own set of challenges. I felt really homesick at the beginning of the trip.Moreover, engaging in activities such as cotton picking in the intense heat tested my perseverance. Despite the challenging conditions, I approached each task with a positive attitude.Furthermore, visiting the gaushala provided as we witnessed the milking of cows in an environment surrounded by cow dung, mosquitoes, and bad smell. While the experience was uncomfortable, I remained committed to learning.
LO6 – Engagement with issues of global significance
Engagement with local communities shed light on issues with global significance. One impactful experience was our visit to a local hospital, where we learned about a prevalent genetic disease affecting the community. This genetic disease has no known cure and we learnt that most families abort their child because they don’t want him/ her to suffer.
Additionally, our interactions with local residents revealed socio-economic challenges. Visiting households, we heard stories of families struggling with basic necessities such as access to electricity. Furthermore, discussions on agricultural losses due to crop destruction emphasized the interconnectedness of environmental sustainability and global food security.Moreover, our interactions with children provided insights into the importance of education in addressing global challenges. Observing their limited knowledge about topics like advertisements and meteor showers showed the lack of resources available to them for learning.
From this experience, I’ve learnt invaluable lessons that have changedmy perspective on life. Firstly, I realised the impact of distancing myself from mobile phones. Without the constant distraction, I was forced to engage in activities I would typically procrastinate. This taught me the importance of mindful living and seizing the moment.
Moreover, the trip made me realize the importance of gratitude. Being in an environment devoid of modern amenities like light, air conditioning, and internet access made me appreciate the privileges I often take for granted. I developed appreciation for the comforts I enjoy daily.
Furthermore, I learned that life’s most cherished memories are often found through simple joys and meaningful connections. Engaging in deep conversations with friends, singing along to music, going on treks, and playing frisbee left imprints on my heart. These experiences highlighted the importance of a balanced life.
