USAC India: Bengaluru- Culture, Society, Global Perspectives

North India is much more well-known than its southern counterpart, but I truly believe every student should experience living in Bengaluru and the beautiful South India. This is not necessarily a beginner-friendly nation to travel or live abroad in, but if you have travelled alone before or if you are looking for adventure and challenge, this is the place. India has many religions, cultures, languages, and medicinal systems sharing space and co-existing peacefully. It's colorful, full of flavor, and easy to find vegetarian or even vegan options (that actually taste amazing!). Money-wise this is the most affordable program you will find. The most expensive part will be the plane ticket over, but after that most meals are maybe 2 US dollars, and you can get any souvenirs or clothing for very very inexpensive prices if you practice bargaining like a local! Don't miss out on this chance because India seems overwhelming or intense. Instead, embrace the unknown and learn something new about yourself and India. The locals are always excited when people are in South India to genuinely experience and ask questions about the culture, so you will have so much support!

This program was packed full of classes and lots of travel to see amazing things. When it came to the living situation on campus I will say it could be improved but I’m not mad as I didn’t have to share and I got to have free time. I do wish there was more known around the campus as there were several places I wasn’t able to go much later in the trip since I didn’t know abt it. The people were one of the best parts of the trip and I felt like I was able to be myself fully.

I had a fantastic semester with USAC in Bengaluru. The program is well organized and the staff are absolutely amazing and more than willing to help you with anything. I enjoyed the classes and learned valuable and applicable information from excellent professors. The apartment accommodation was so nice and in a great area. My time in India was incredible and helped me grow as a person. India is a beautifully complex society and navigating through it challenged me to look at my life and how I want to spend it. It helped open my eyes to what I find most important. Learning about the many facets of Indian culture and society helped broaden my perspective and understanding of this world. Another plus of the program is that there is ample time to travel around India and the resident director will always give great advice. I was able to trek in the Himalayas, visit the Taj Mahal, explore ancient temples in Hampi, and chill on the beautiful beaches of Goa. India is extremely diverse and anyone can find a great adventure. Living in India you learn how to be flexible and adaptable. The culture is extremely different from the West, which makes it the perfect environment to grow personally and become aware of your cultural biases. India definitely is not the easiest place to live, but if you come with an open heart and a willingness to grow you will have the time of your life.