Friday, September 11, 2015

AIESEC Alumni from Russia speaks on her experiences with Explore Sri Lanka 7.0

My decision to apply for an internship in Sri Lanka was not very well-planned and like all of the best adventures in my life it happened to me unexpectedly. And it makes me feel even more grateful for the experience which I’ve gained here.

«Explore Sri Lanka» is a project focused on cross-cultural understanding. Overall, 21 interns from different countries have traveled around Sri Lanka in order to create promo-materials for the island and get to know an unfamiliar culture. During the project one is able not only to see the sightseeing places of the country but to feel its soul. Here I was not a tourist, I was an explorer. During my small discoveries every day I have learned from locals and people from all around the world. For example, how to accept different cultures so easily, how to love nature, how to be more open minded towards strangers.

I don’t know how important my impact on this country was, but Sri Lanka has definitely influenced me and this experience has helped me deeper understand who I really am. My first cultural shock has happened to me in Sri Lanka. Differences between my home and this host cultures are significant. Now I used to the crazy traffic, kind locals, hot humid weather, monkeys, breathtaking sunrises, cheerful kids, rice, tender ocean and local music. I got used to everything that Sri Lanka offers and fell in love with the country.  

Yana Dudchenko, Russia
AIESEC Alumni
Explore Sri Lanka 7.0.


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