AYLP/ABYLEP Bangladesh 2012-2013

Noting the Changes: Reflections by Sam L.

This educational adventure has meant a great deal to me. It allowed me to get out and see more of the world, not just as a tourist, but in a way where I could experience a culture I’ve never even dreamt of being apart of. I saw the impact that my lifestyle has on the environment and I was extremely affected on a personal level by this experience. Some of the lessons I learned from the trip were that even though we may live on the other side of the world I still have many similarities with the Bangladeshi people. I also learned that you should always try your best to get along with people you have disagreements with. I noticed on the trip that I had several similarities and differences with both American and Bangladeshi students. The similarities were a little surprising since we came from all the way across the world. The differences were something I had to put aside for the sake of working together with everyone. I learned that you have to move past them to move forward.

I also challenged myself by trying new foods. I don’t try many new foods and this trip gave me a chance to step out of my comfort zone in that way. I think my behavior moving forward will change in several ways. I now know more about how my actions affect the world, and this will change my ways. I will work harder to help protect the environment, even if it means changing my lifestyle. In the past I’ve recycled and done things in my personal life to help the environment and now this inspires me to go out and do more for my community as a whole. I will try and go and do the extra mile for my community and the environment.