Bhutan – Land of the Thunder Dragon

Bhutan, the oldest Buddhist Himalayan Kingdom, has been isolated for centuries.  It is a magical place often referred to as the last Shangri-La due to its dramatic landscape and pristine natural resources.

Bhutan is committed to environmental preservation and maintaining its rich Buddhist cultural traditions as it enters a period of dramatic growth. In 2008, Bhutan had its first elections, moving from a monarchy to a constitutional democracy.

Program Overview

Wheaton’s Semester in Bhutan offers students a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in a culture rich with history.  As visiting students at Royal Thimphu College (RTC), students will have the opportunity to engage on a very personal level with their hosts in Bhutan.  This program is designed to allow for a broad range of interests and offers unique opportunities including: basic Dzongkha language instruction, living in RTC dorms with Bhutanese students, a practicum placement in a community based organization, and educational excursions.

Students will take four courses throughout their semester: an overview of Bhutanese Culture and Society, Introductory Dzongkha, a guided practicum experience, and one course from a selection of those offered by RTC.  Students will be awarded 1 Wheaton credit for each of these courses successfully completed.

The Wheaton Semester in Bhutan will be particularly beneficial for students interested in Environmental Studies, Sociology, Psychology, Anthropology, Asian Studies, Political Science, Economics, Religion, Women’s Studies, Music and Art, however students in any major will benefit from a semester in Bhutan. This program is set to run August 1^st to December 1^st 2010.

Course Descriptions

Contemporary Bhutan Culture and Society: This course will be facilitated by a Wheaton faculty member and will include lectures from experts in various areas.  The course will cover such topics as Buddhism in Bhutan, Economic Development and Gross National Happiness, Environmental Policy and Preservation in Bhutan, and Gender and Family Roles.

Practicum in Bhutan: Students will spend 8-16 hours a week at a field placement site and participate in a weekly seminar.  Possible practicum sites include: Royal Society for the Protection of Nature, Voluntary Artists Society of Thimphu, RENEW, a domestic violence intervention and prevention program, KUZOO, the English language radio station or the Youth Development Centre.

One RTC Course from the following: Introduction to the Environment, Eastern Political Thought, Demographics or Social Psychology.

Essential Dzongkha: This course is designed to provide a foundation for a better understanding of Bhutanese society.

Program Schedule

July 31^st: Group departs U.S.

August 3^rd – 8^th: Orientation

August 9^th: Classes begin

October 2^nd – 10^th: Educational Excursion

November 28^th: Group departs Bhutan

Program schedule and logistics subject to change.

Housing/Meals/Facilities

RTC has modern residence halls with double occupancy rooms, laundry, and lounge facilities.  Included in the program are meals in the student dining hall.

RTC also offers a library, bookstore, sports facilities, and high-speed Internet access.  There is an on-campus infirmary and a hospital near-by.  A RTC shuttle runs regularly between the campus and the center of Thimphu.

Application (Available from February 1, 2010)

For a complete application please visit the Center for Global Education. Applications must be complete before turning them in for consideration.  Applications will be reviewed based on interest, willingness to engage with the local community as project partners, and academic standing.  As with all study abroad experiences cultural sensitivity and a willingness to expand one’s comfort zone is a must.  In addition to the written application finalists will be asked to come in for a brief interview.  If you have any questions about the application process please feel free to contact the Center for Global Education.

Excursions

While the program is based in the capital city of Thimphu, Bhutan is a country rich in cultural diversity and environmental splendor.  So during the semester we will plan some weekend trips in order to provide students with additional opportunities to experience Bhutan’s natural beauty and the richness of its cultural heritage.  One of these may be a two-day trek.

In addition there will be a one-week excursion to rural Bhutan and field trips to Buddhist monasteries and monastic schools, governmental offices, traditional medicine clinics, as well as local artisan and handcraft centers.

Health and Safety

In addition to ensuring that students have a successful academic experience, students’ health and safety is our primary concern.  We have been strongly advised by physicians that due to the high altitude (8,000ft–10,000ft) students with certain health conditions should be advised not to participate in this program.  In order to provide the best educational experience for all students, applicants for this program must complete the Health Waiver Form to be signed by a travel health doctor or family physician.

Important Dates/Deadlines

February 10^th, 2010 – Program Information Session

March 5^th, 2010 – Application deadline

April 8^th, 2010 – Confirmation of participation due

For a pdf version of this information please use this link.

https://wcweb.wheatonma.edu/upload2/docs/w00125654/bhutan_flyerv2.pdf

*NOTE* The file listed above is scheduled to be deleted from the server on Mar 11th 2010 so PLEASE download the file locally.

On their final day RTC and Wheaton faculty came together for a group photo

Bhutan.  RTC is the first private college in Bhutan accepting its first class of students this last August.

The four day workshop was conducted as part of Wheaton’s developing relationship with RTC as Wheaton prepares to begin offer a semester long study abroad program there.  In preparation for this workshop Professor Bianca Cody Murphy and Professor Bruce Owens conducted a needs assessment in November.  The workshop is one of the first steps in demonstrating Wheaton’s commitment to developing a true collaborative partnership with RTC and Bhutan.

Over the course of the four days faculty from RTC and Wheaton discussed a wide range of topics including teaching styles, how to motivate students to read critically, assessment options and eliciting classroom discussion.  The photos below provide a glimpse into the activities for the week.

Alfredo Varela, Dean for the Center of Global Education pens the RTC/Wheaton agreement

This most recent visit was part of a process spanning many years as Wheaton has worked to develop a close relationship with the nation of Bhutan.  This past November Professors Bianca Cody Murphy (Psychology) and Bruce Owens (Anthropology) conducted an assessment of Wheaton’s proposed partner and laid the groundwork for the faculty workshop which was the first step in the college’s commitment to build a true partnership and help support the fostering of liberal arts style education in Bhutan.

Royal Thimphu College is the first private institution of higher learning in Bhutan and is committed to fostering critical, creative thinking. RTC accepted its first class of students this last August and was the brainchild of Dasho Tenzing Yonten, founder of RTC.  Through Wheaton’s partnership with RTC, Wheaton plans to send 8 students to RTC to spend the fall 2010 semester.  Students will take four courses including a course on Bhutanese society and culture and a practicum based course where students will be placed in local service organizations.  Professor Bianca Cody Murphy will serve as the first program director.

Delegations from both campuses exchange signed agreements. Pictured in the photo (l-r) are Professor Matthew Evans, Professor Hyun Kim, Dean Alfredo Varela, Dasho Tenzing Yonten and Dean Shivaraj Bhattarai.

Students interested in applying for this program should contact the Center for Global Education (ext. 4950).  Applications will be available starting Feb. 1 2010.

Group Photo of 2009 Wheaton College/UWC retreat participants

United World College (UWC) was founded on the principle that “education should be a force to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future”.  UWC students carry with them a special mission to follow through on these ideals.  Last year, Wheaton College with support from Diana Davis Spencer ‘60, Trustee Emerita, and the Shelby Cullom Davis Foundation, provided a forum for UWC students to engage in a weekend of discussion designed to reconnect them with core UWC ideals.  This year continued this “new tradition” and built on the success of last year. Once again we are grateful for the support of Diana Davis Spencer ‘60, Trustee Emerita, and the Shelby Cullom Davis Foundation.

Moving Forward

Keeping in mind the goal of building on the discussions of last year, the program sought to help students develop some hands-on skills necessary to actively engage with real world problems.  In addition, facilitators raised important questions about individual identity and social responsibility as well as providing the opportunity for UWC students to strengthen their networks with each other.  It is these connections that we believe will serve as the basis of future achievements.

Retreat Facilitators

Two very accomplished individuals facilitated this weekend as they sought to challenge participants’ perceptions of themselves and assist them in “expanding the realm of the possible”.  Both brought a rich wealth of knowledge and experience and raised questions about self, and the responsibility of privilege. In addition, they provided students very practical advice about the planning and implementation of grassroots projects.

Peter Dalglish

Founder of Street Kids International, Mr. Dalglish is a leading authority on working children, street children, and war-affected children. A graduate from Stanford University and Dalhousie Law School, Peter Dalglish organized an airlift of food and medical supplies from Canada to a starving African nation.  In 1986, Peter Dalglish began the Sudan’s first technical training school for street children, funded by Bob Geldof of Band Aid. In the same year, he set up a bicycle courier service run entirely by street children in Khartoum.  In 1988, in recognition of his efforts on behalf of destitute African children, he was selected by the Junior Chamber International as one of the ten outstanding young people of the world.

Kenneth Williams Ed.D.

Professor Williams is an Assistant Professor of Intercultural Service, Leadership, and Management at World Learning, School for International Training Graduate Institute.  Dr. Williams completed his doctorate in organization and leadership at Columbia University. He teaches Social Identity, Organizational Behavior, and Practitioner Inquiry.  Williams has taught and lived in the U.K., Bermuda, Bangladesh, Thailand, Bermuda, Jamaica, and the United States, as well as in Barbados, where he founded a number of small- and medium-sized enterprises.

Friday – October 9th

Events began at Wheaton College with students checking in on Friday evening.  Starting at 2PM students arrived and reported to Wheaton College’s Balfour Hood Atrium.  There they were greeted and received their welcome packet.  Students who arrive before 7PM were given a tour of the new “UWC House” in the Davis International House, which was recently refurbished thanks to the generosity of Diana Davis Spencer ‘60.  Food and refreshments were provided as students gathered.

Friday – October 9th – (cont.)

Later in the evening there was a brief introduction by Alfredo Varela, Dean for the Center of Global Education and a welcome by Linda Eisenmann, Provost.  This was followed by a presentation by recent Wheaton Alumnae, Ann Kwan ‘09.  Ms. Kwan one of the founders of this retreat, discussed the role networking has had in generating opportunities in her life after Wheaton and provided some practical tips for students looking to take the next step in their careers.

Buses left for YMCA Camp Burgess on the Cape at about 8PM. Upon arrival the 60 participants (57 students and staff) from 15 colleges and 25 countries engaged in a series of ice-breaking exercises in preparation for a weekend of focused conversation.  While most came from colleges in the Northeast, one group of students drove over 14 hours form Earlham College in Indiana to be with us this weekend.

Saturday – October 10th

Morning/Early Afternoon –

After some student initiated warm-up sessions, Peter Dalglish began the day by raising questions important to the professional and personal development of all those committed to world peace and social justice.

Who am I to think that I can make a real contribution or change? Can I choose not to make a difference? If change affects the “status quo” for my friends and family is it worth the risks?  For many UWC students these questions challenged the very core of their beliefs and forced them to examine the structure of the institutions they came from.  Presenting examples from his rich vault of experiences “Peter” made a compelling case for confronting “the way things are” in exchange for the possibilities of “what should be”.

Kenneth Williams followed this session by introducing “The World Cafe” – a technique for engaged conversation. This provided a space to work through some of the questions raised by Peter and ensured that everyone actively contributed to the discussion. Students were also able to address their own specific areas of interest such as child labor, the environment, and women’s rights.

Leadership and Team-building

Later in the afternoon everyone participated in a series of physical team-building exercises.  Because the networks created now serve as the basis of future accomplishments, these exercises gave participants the opportunity to build bonds of trust and mutual respect. This is part of the Camp Burgess & Hayward experience and was lead by their Leadership staff.

“Round the Tables”

Energized, students were ready to continue tackling the difficult questions presented earlier in the day.  So over dinner they divided themselves into three groups: 1)UWC topics and issues, 2)Identity, class, and social justice, and 3)Looking beyond the UWC college experience.  For about 90 minutes participants moved from table to table contributing to each discussion.  President Ronald Crutcher and Betty Neal Crutcher, who had arrived earlier in the day, joined in these discussions.  President Crutcher also took the opportunity to welcome the participants and to thank Wheaton students for all their hard work in organizing the retreat.

“Together We Will Move with the World”

After a full day, everyone gathered for an evening of celebration and rejoiced in the new friendships created, the discoveries made, and the opportunities that await us.  An “open mic” session provided the opportunity for creative expression of the emotions and ideas generated throughout the day.

Sunday – October 11th

What to do? How to do it?

Early Sunday morning, Peter Dalglish re-engaged with participants.  This time the group focused on specific projects areas and conceptualized concrete avenues for taking on some daunting issues such as dwindling water resources, child labor, human trafficking and unequal access to education.  Focus was on practical issues such as engaging stakeholders, identifying resources, and making decisions about the organizational structure of a movement.

UWC “In Action” -  Poster Session

Participants were invited to share projects they have worked on since leaving their UWC campus or ideas for projects they hoped to create. This open forum was designed to provide an opportunity to network and raise awareness about issues of importance.

The Center for Global Education says, "Welcome to Wheaton!"

New International Student Orientation 2009

Arriving from places as far away as China, Bhutan, Japan, Nigeria, Botswana, Bulgaria, Ireland and Italy over 50 new faces arrived on the Wheaton College campus over the last two days.  While the majority of this group is made up of new first year students, it also includes four exchange students (from Germany, Ireland and Botswana) and six Foreign Language Teaching Assistants (from Spain,

Students from around the globe gather for their first meal in Emerson

Italy, France, Argentina, Russia and Germany).  This year’s international student population reflects an increase of about 40% from last year.

Here to welcome the students to Wheaton College and the U.S. was a dedicated group of International Orientation Assistants (IOAs).  This group of students took time off their summer break to return to campus early in order to make sure our new friends from around the world received a warm welcome.

This year in order to make the transition more seamless, the Center for Global Education (CGE) provided a scheduled van pick-up at Boston Logan Airport.  Also in collaboration with the Office of Student Life, the CGE was able to streamline the check in process, so after what was almost two days travel for some, students could be taken directly to their rooms.

Students arrive to campus and possibly the U.S. for the first time.

As international students, issues regarding visa status, their ability to be employed, getting a driver’s license or even purchasing a cellular phone are all very different from our domestic student population.  So over their first two days at Wheaton, this global group of students engaged in activities and presentations designed to introduce them to the variety of resources and opportunities they will have during their studies here at Wheaton.  In addition, discussions of cultural diversity and possible adjustments issues took place.

While these students have a special place in the hearts and minds of the staff of the Center, one goals of the orientation is to make our international students aware that here at Wheaton College many doors are open to them.  So we hope you will join us in welcoming this new eager group from around the world.

The photos shown here provide only a partial glimpse into all that took place over the their first two days but will hopefully  server as introduction to some of the new faces you will see on campus.

From the start IOA, Rebecca Proctor begins answering questions

After checking in the new group of international students are given a tour of the campus

IOAs help students check-in as they arrive

Jill Ostrowski, C.G.E. Associate Director and International Student Advisor offers insight to one of the new students

IOA, "Kachi" Udeoji directs Soki Yoshida and his parents around campus

Students sponsored by C.G.E., The Marshall Center and Academic Resources gathered in Emerson for lunch before beginning an afternoon of orientation presentations.

Their "first taste" of college life at Wheaton

As the afternoon proceeds students are "oriented" to life at Wheaton

In any language it means the same - Welcome!

Center for Global Education Open House

Tuesday, September 8, 2009 from 1:30 – 3:00 pm at the CGE buildings 5 & 9 Howard Street. Stop by the “NEW” Center for Global Education offices at 5 & 9 Howard Street! Tell your friends, too!

International Student BBQ

Friday, September 4, 2009 from 12 to 2:00 pm at the CGE, 5 Howard Street. Join the CGE staff as we enjoy hamburgers & hot dogs together with our new and “veteran” international Wheaton students! This event is for our new and returning international students.

Welcome Back Dinner & Slideshow

Thursday, September 10, 2009 from 5:00 – 6:30 pm in Faculty Dining/Emerson

For students returning from a semester or year abroad this your official welcome back to the Wheaton campus from the Center for Global Education.  Please RSVP and send your slideshow photo (.jpg format) to globaled@wheatonma.edu by Friday, September 8, 2009

Slideshow: Students should electronically submit one photo (.jpg format) of themselves from their abroad experience to globaled@wheatonma.edu no later than Tuesday, September 8, 2009.

Returnees’ Reunion Gathering

Thursday, September 17, 2009 from 5:30 – 6:30 pm in the Center for Global Education, 5 Howard St.

Feeling a little anxious?  ”Home” just a bit different than you remember it?  Not quite sure how to share all those great experiences you had while overseas?  Join other study abroad returnees in sharing the experience of returning to Wheaton and learn about resources for your next work, intern and/or study abroad opportunities. Bring an artifact or photo from your host country to share with other students. Delicious pizza will be served also!! RSVP by Noon, Monday, September 14, 2009.

Peer Advisor Program – Peer Advisor Applications are due by Friday, September 11, 2009

Mandatory Training: Tuesday, September 15, 2009 from 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm in the PDR I & II

Now that you’ve studied abroad – you know it is an experience everyone should take advantage of – here is your chance to make that happen.  The Peer Advisor Program is a great way to share your experiences with other students and build your resume! You should plan to send or bring a photo of you in your study abroad location to display in the CGE.

Applications can be found on the CGE Website: http://www.wheatoncollege.edu/Global/pdf/PAApplication.pdf

Norton Public School Visits

Are you interested in presenting your study abroad experience in a Norton Public School Classroom (K-12)?  Norton students will be interested and excited to hear about your experiences, while giving you a chance to contribute to the community, motivate and encourage them to study a foreign language or to see the world! International students are also invited to talk about their home countries.  If you have any questions, contact Valerie Desmond (desmond_valerie@wheatonma.edu)

Study Abroad Fair

Friday, September 18, 2009 from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm in Balfour Hood Atrium

For students returning from a study abroad experience this is a chance to reconnect with your study abroad program and meet with representatives as well as current Wheaton students who are exploring the possibilities for studying overseas.  For students new to Wheaton and want to find out about all the great international opportunities this is an excellent chance to see the full range of program Wheaton has to offer.  Representatives from many of our programs will be on hand to answer questions and give you all the information you need to plan your study abroad experience.

Returnees & International Students Pot Luck Lunch

Friday, October 16, 2009 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm (Location: TBA)

Have you met with international students on campus?  You may find someone from your host country!  Do you remember how you felt when you arrived in your host country?  Meet students who have just arrived in the U.S. and are looking for new American friends.  Let’s cook a dinner together and have a fun evening!  This event is for returning study abroad and international students.

Major Connections in Math/Computer Science

Thursday, October 22, 2009 (Time/Location TBD) Come to meet Wheaton alums who will speak about their Math/Computer Science major. Enjoy a reception following this discussion. For more details, contact Elizabeth Hallowell at the Academic Advising and Career Services Center, ext. 3797.

Major Connections in Women’s Studies

Thursday, November 19, 2009 (Time/Location TBD) Come to meet Wheaton alums who will speak about their Women’s Studies major. Enjoy a reception following this discussion. For more details, contact Elizabeth Hallowell at the Academic Advising and Career Services Center, ext. 3797.

Coming February 2010:  Annual Study Abroad Re-entry Conference

More details to follow via email from the Center for Global Education

Meet study abroad returnees from around New England; learn about work, volunteer, internship, and teaching abroad opportunities.  There is a minimal cost (approximately $10.00 ($15.00 at the door) and must be paid by check or money order made out to NAFSA Region XI.

Study Break with International Students & Peer Advisors

Friday, December 11, 2009 from 2:00 – 4:00 pm at the Center for Global Education

Take a break with international students before the final exams!

This week in addition to practicing Tai Chi students experienced firsthand the long practiced TCM treatment of “cupping”.

Wheaton student participate in TCM "cupping" treatment

Cupping is used to release “heat” form the unbalanced system in the body,and it is also used to relieve pain and to remove poison. A cotton swap soaked in alcohol was lit and the flame was put into a glass cup for half a second. The cup is then quickly put on the the skin. Since a slight vacuum is thus created, the cup will be stuck to the skin. It can be made to glide in a large area on the vasoline treated skin or stay stationary for a period of time. The skin under the cup will then turn red or purple due to subcutaneous bleeding which in turn will release the “heat” or “poison” in the blood.

Professor Ed Tong also added:

Students on the herb brewing "assembly line"

“We also did Herb brewing yesterday and massage today. Five herbs were brewed together in separate containers on a large scale in the hospital. You can see Wheaton students working on an “assembly line”. After it was done, we all drank the brewed medicine which help us to supress the “heat” and balance our Ying/Yang energies.”

Students are shown practicing the martial art of Tai Chi

A group of Wheaton students are currently in Kunming, China with Professor of Biology Ed Tong participating on a three-week program studying traditional Chinese medicine.  This is the first time Wheaton is offering this course (Introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine – BIO 298).

Students will be introduced to traditional Chinese medical practices and the philosophy of Chinese medicine. These include herbal remedies, medicinal preparation, Chinese Tuina massage, acupuncture, moxibustion and other traditional therapeutic treatments. In addition to regular lectures, students will have daily interactions with Chinese medical doctors, students and hospital staff; participation in various hospital activities; and educational excursions to observe rural medical practitioners of several minority groups. Regular discussions sessions also will be held to determine connections between Eastern and Western medicine.

a model of the human body indicating acupuncture points

Based in the city of Kunming in Yunnan Province, China, and run in conjunction with the Yunnan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the program provides an introduction to the ancient philosophy, theory, history and practices in traditional Chinese medicine, one of the world’s oldest, best-known and most-developed medicinal systems, placing it in the social context of modern China.

On a recent outing, Wheaton students learned about and practiced the martial art of Tai Chi (see above), which is known for its ability to maintain a healthy circulation of energy throughout the body.

Wheaton’s program in Kunming is one in a portfolio of faculty-led study abroad programs the Center for Global Education offers in the summer and over the January break.  This coming year in addition to our TCM program the Center is planning to offer the following programs: Greece: Of  Minoans and Mycenaean’s – An Archaeological Exploration of the Greek Bronze Age (Classics 398); Trinidad and Tobago: Innovative Music Traditions of Trinidad and Tobago (Music 204); and South Africa/Botswana: Witnessing Contemporary African Society and Culture (Interdepartmental 298).  For more information regarding our faculty-led programs please contact Jill Ostrowski, Associate Director at the Center for Global Education (ext. 4950).

As everyone has heard in the news, a new North American strain of Swine Influenza has appeared and there have been confirmed cases in the United States, Mexico, Israel, Spain, United Kingdom and New Zealand with reported cases in several other countries.  While there have been a number of deaths related to this disease it is good to keep the current situation in context. 

According to the Center for Disease Control over 13,000 people in the U.S. have died of related complications since this January as the result of known flu strains.  “Regular” flu strains are responsible for approximately 36,000 deaths a year in the U.S. alone.  So while we need to remain vigilant and cautious about how this new flu virus spreads we should keep in mind that known flu strains present similar risks. 

We should take this opportunity to remember that there are some very basic steps we can take to prevent contracting or the spread of this and other diseases.  Below there are several links that provide information regarding best practices and other information about this new strain of influenza.

We have made arrangements for our students who were studying in Mexico this semester to return home. This decision was made when the Mexican government, in a move to prevent the spread of the disease, decided to close all university campuses.  Arrangements have been made for students to complete their coursework here in the U.S. and receive credits for the courses they successfully complete.  All the students were healthy and had been practicing the appropriate precautions in order to prevent contracting the disease.  Had we been able to assure the safe and successful completion of their term in Mexico, we would have allowed them to remain in Puebla. 

We also know many of you are concerned about being or traveling abroad during this period of heightened awareness. We want to assure you that the Center for Global Education is constantly monitoring the situation and will be providing updates as relevant information becomes available.  Should you have any questions about being abroad we invite you to contact us and we will be happy to speak with you about your travel plans.  Students currently studying abroad, or planning to in the summer ‘09 or fall ’09 should remain in contact with the Center for Global Education for information updates. 

The Center for Global Education can be reached by phone at 508-286-4950 or e-mail at globaled@wheatonma.edu.

Helpful links for more information about the North American strain of Swine influenza:

http://www.pandemicflu.gov/

http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/index.htm

http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/

http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html

http://apahelpcenter.org/articles/article.php?id=194