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"Instead of just questioning how to change things, we simply come every day and act. We follow our instincts, get to know the children as individual people, and know that all of the wonderful and productive things we are doing to challenge the kids and the system are nothing but a drop in the bucket-- but that's ok, because every moment with these kids, all of the time both frustrating and miraculous, is fulfilling and joy-inspiring."
- Sofia, Goucher College
India is not just a country; it is a sub-continent. The diversity of cultures, languages, religions, classes, and castes is immense. One of the most ancient of civilizations, India struggles today with all the issues and concerns of the contemporary world. The city of Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is rich with cultural and intellectual opportunities but is also challenged by extremes of wealth and poverty, and by rapid population growth. You will have a very real and profound experience as you encounter the conditions under which many Indians live, study Indian history and culture, and provide direct human care to those in need.
In India, IPSL offers intensive, 3-week sessions in January and August, as well as fall and spring semester programs which begin with the 3-week session. All students begin the program in Kolkata, serving at Mother Teresa's Homes, providing care and support to destitute children, women, men, and the ill, or in other service placements if they choose. Your volunteer service immerses you in the culture and deepens your understanding of Indian society in a way that goes beyond that experienced in traditional study abroad programs.
3-week Session (August or January) - includes semester students
You provide basic care to the needy of Kolkata, study the cultures and issues of India under the guidance of the Program Director and other faculty members, and visit other Indian cities and villages through field trips. Specific locations may vary by season and year. The early days of the January/Spring program will introduce you to Delhi/New Delhi, the capital. This includes an orientation to India, field trips around Delhi, and a visit to Agra and the Taj Mahal. Because of the intense heat in Delhi in August, the August/Fall program includes instead an extensive trip to the ancient sun temple at Konarak on the Indian Ocean and neighboring historic sites. Leading artists, film directors, and scholars are guest speakers for both programs.
Semester Session (Fall or Spring)
In addition to the 3-week session, semester students pursue another ten weeks of interdisciplinary study, and may continue serving at Mother Teresa’s or work in another agency providing educational and related services to people in need.
