I N D I A

2009 In the summer of 2009, after graduating with my BFA, I traveled to India for a month as a continuing ed student for an experiential class about Indian cultures, specifically in the northern Himalayan region of Ladakh. I arrived in New Delhi jet-lagged but wide eyed. This was my second international trip, my first had been to Ireland 5 years prior. I had only done some reading about the culture of Ladakh because my professor was well versed in various Indian customs and even spoke some Hindi. I did not, as some friends suggested, watch “Slumdog Millionaire” before going on this trip. I didn’t want a tainted, western view of a country that is so multifaceted and diverse. My frequent visits to New York City from DC could not have prepared me for the hustle and bustle of New Delhi. Driving the Blue Ridge Mountain Parkway through Virginia did not prepare me for the vastness and diversity of the Himalayas. What I appreciated most was my exchanges with people. Half the time we didn’t speak the same language but it reminded me how little that can matter when two people are simply interested in connection. It was impossible to capture every amazing moment I experienced; I don’t think I took enough photographs, but this is a selection of my favorites.