The dilemma

Like many others, I was also in great dilemma on the decision of going to student exchange to Europe or not. The initial trade off was all the positions of responsibility and the numerous competitions which happen in this part of the academic year. I somehow, managed to take a decision and chose Belgium as my destination for these 3 months in March 2009.
In the previous 2-3 months, I developed quite a lot of anxiety over my decision over exchange and have pondered over the thought of even skipping it. I could not reach to the conclusion if the reasons were significant enough to leave Eurotrip opportunity. Today, after spending 2 weeks in Belgium and packing for Switzerland tomorrow, I came to some other conclusion related to it. The previous reasons were very important but the exchange experience is very very nourishing.

I have heard people saying that Euro trip could be made in 20-25 days with less money expensed. The problem is that till you do not stay at one place for few days, you neither know about the culture, the people of the place , nor do you enjoy it to the fullest. While living in a student hostel with students of different nationalities and color, I am learning a new way of living your life. In India, we believe that Europeans are rude and do not care much amongst themselves. Atleast till now, my experience is totally opposite. The people here have helped us much more than than what we guys help steppers in IIM Calcutta. (except few nice girls :P)

The culture of giving respect to pedestrians and saying hello to everyone on the road is just too different from India. The differences between both the cultures make my stay here worth the money spent and the reasons which I overlooked. :)

Cheers!