As a result of participating in this Discovery Week course students will:
- Struggle with how to accurately document experiences.
- Explore how underlying societal structures affect everyday life.
Course Description/Itinerary:
An in-depth look at the evolution of democracy in Myanmar through the stories of artists, filmmakers, students and families.
- Day 1: Settle in and visit the beautiful golden Shwedagon Pagoda. Most Burmese will try to make a pilgrimage here at some point. Use this opportunity to hear the stories of the pilgrims.
- Day 2: Learn the subtle art of finding a story to tell. Explore the famous Bojyoke Market, strike up conversations at local tea shops, and interview local University students.
- Day 3: Visit a local monastery and give alms to monks. Screen Burmese documentaries and meet with local Burmese filmmakers. Head out to Inya Lake and strike up conversations.
- Day 4: One-hour flight to to Mandalay. Cross U Bein Bridge, and explore local village life in Mandalay. Interview locals and learn about the land rights issues playing out in Burma.
- Day 5: Explore a village where traditional life plays out as it did several decades ago. home visits where you’ll be able to experience a traditional Burmese lifestyle and interview families.
- Day 6: Meet various monks, young professionals and local journalists. Interview those people directly impacted by recent political changes. Reflect on the amazing experience you’ve had.
- Day 7: Bid farewell to your Burmese staff and connect to your international flight back home.
Requirements/Considerations:
- Myanmar is often very hot and humid.
- Be willing to be without your phone for much of the week.
- Sunday to Sunday
Approximate Cost: $2,000 - $2,500
Sponsors: Mr. Kamphuis and Mr. Kneeshaw
Course Location: Yangon and Mandalay, Myanmar
Course Category: Skill Development and Culture
Student Leaders: 1 male and 1 female that will be chosen through an application process of essay writing. Email course leaders for more information.
Additional Resources: This program is adapted from a longer program linked here and the original Rustic Pathways trip linked here.