SIT Study Abroad: India: Public Health, Gender, & Sexuality

Studying abroad in India was the best choice I could have made! India may not be a "traditional" location, but it should be with its historical monuments, diverse culture, delicious food, and generous people. I was surrounded by love and supported from the second I was picked up from the airport by program staff. The academics are engaging with many site visits and excursions. There is also built-in time for additional travel. I learned a lot about myself through moments of discomfort, unfamiliarity, and adaptation. There is also an opportunity for a month-long research project, which could include clinical exposure--great for pre-med students!

I was originally so nervous to take on this experience. It was my first time living abroad and even my first time living in a city, since I come from rural Ohio. I wanted to join this program because the academic topics matched my interests perfectly. When I got here, I was scared as anything, but the SIT staff and faculty became the best support system I could ask for. The academics are rigorous, but they don’t take up all of your time. Much of the coursework builds on itself, and it will prepare you so well for your ISP. In Delhi, you’ll spend most evenings with your homestay families, but during excursions you’ll have plenty of time to explore, hang out, and grow close with your fellow students. Most of my time was spent with the other students, since opportunities to make friends with locals were limited. This is an incredible program, but it’s also what you make of it, you’ll have to push your boundaries and step out of your comfort zone, but that when I learned the most about myself. This experience will stick with me for the rest of my life, and I honestly wish I could do it again. The program gives you the perfect balance of independence while still being a safety net whenever you need it. Also, you will never go hungry here. If I could give one last piece of convincing evidence to join this program, let the food be it!

This program was absolutely incredible! While studying in India is less common and there are many prejudices against the country, I’ve found it to be the most welcoming, safe, and impactful place that I’ve visited. The classes are engaging and are integrated into day- and week-long field excursions across India. The opportunity to live with a host family is a rare chance to truly experience the culture outside of the classroom setting. While the experience was daunting at first, I found myself becoming a part of their family and community. The Independent Study Project, which I completed at the end of the semester, was a great way to get hands-on experience with research and working in a clinical setting (as I partnered with a healthcare organization). This program challenges you in all the right ways, pushing you to learn about yourself, step outside your comfort zone, and truly become immersed in the Indian culture. You should absolutely apply!