The Language Barrier
By: Skyler Stowell, Penn Nursing ’20
United Helping Hands Nepal – Kathmandu
For some reason, when I came to Nepal, I thought that the people would speak more English than they do. I knew that the children went to English schools, so was prepared to be able to easily communicate and plan activities with them. While some of the older boys can speak English pretty well, many of the children know little English. Even the house mother barely speaks it. Therefore, the first week, I found it very difficult to adapt and be able to communicate. It was frustrating to try to help the children with their homework when they didn’t understand what I was teaching. It was hard to not be able to really communicate with anyone. I felt a bit lost! I truly can imagine how visitors to America who do not speak English feel now. It was a great lesson in culture. Now, I have started to find other ways to communicate and connect with the kids. For example, I can demonstrate to them how to do a homework problem or how to play a game, and they will copy. They are very fast learners. We also have been communicating through song and dance. Often they will teach me Nepali songs and dances, and I will reciprocate by teaching American ones. It is quite a beautiful exchange of culture. This experience has taught me that there is so much more to friendship than language and talking. I am able to laugh, play, and teach the kids without little words at all. Still, I have developed a wonderful relationship with the kids, and they have welcomed me into their family, even calling me “Didi,” which means “older sister” in Nepali. As I help them with their English, I am excited to watch them learn and grow, however, I came to the realization that I should not expect them to learn my language to be able to communicate with me for it is I who came into their country, not the other way around. And, once I was able to break down the “language barrier” and find other ways to communicate, I was able to truly see what an amazing culture of which I have been privileged to be a part.
The Global Research and Internship Program (GRIP) provides outstanding undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to intern or conduct research abroad for 8 to 12 weeks over the summer. Participants gain career-enhancing experience and global exposure that is essential in a global workforce. Placements and funding awards are available.