First Impression, June 2009
Ms. Karen Fan


It’s been almost a week since I have arrived in India, and I am still in astonishment and disbelief to actually be here. While India was almost everything I expected it to be – the colorful markets, the beautiful forts and temples, the busy streets, the archaic buildings – being here is almost surreal. I don’t think I fully grasped the fact that I was in India until I saw cows roaming the streets and rickshaw drivers were calling at me every few minutes for a ride. While arriving here was indeed a culture shock for me, I am slowly adjusting and nevertheless curious to learn more about this country.

My two-month visit here in India will entail volunteer work with Sambhali Trust, which has made a wonderful impression on me so far. When I arrived at the Durag Niwas guesthouse where Sambhali Trust conducts its work, Govind and his wife, Mukta, warmly welcomed me. Mukta marked my head with a traditional bindi and adorned my neck with flowers. Afterwards, Govind showed me to his office, where we discussed the details of what Sambhali Trust does and what I could contribute. Hearing him passionately talk about his organization and what they do for the Harijan women reminded me what attracted me to this organization. At the end of the meeting, we decided that I would be working on a microfinance proposal for the Sherni Project and teaching English to the girls – a plan that I am excited to be a part of.

The last few days, I have already begun to develop a daily work routine. In the mornings, I work on the microfinance proposal for the Sherni Project. Another volunteer and I are now are currently finishing up a needs assessment survey for the prospective Sherni Project candidates. In the afternoons, I eat lunch with the girls and spend time with them. They are all friendly and amiable girls as I have spoken, laughed, and danced with them. Next week, I will begin teaching them English, which I am looking forward to.