I included this post in my portfolio because I think it shows that I am able to effectively utilize a conversational and engaging tone while still accomplishing my literary goal (in this case to explain why I want to visit Tibet).
On Tuesday we looked at the portfolio of a Penn Student who spent a gap year traveling in Tibet. Needless to say, I am so incredibly jealous it hurts. I can only imagine spending a whole year exploring the corners of the world and discovering myself during that critical transition time between high school and college. If anyone wants to fund a slightly delayed gap year then hit me up pretty please.
Aside from awakening the full fury of my envy, the student’s description of her gap year incited a new curiosity in me. I have never really had much interest in visiting Asia, but the pictures that the student posted of her travels were exquisite. Obviously, I went home and proceeded to google pictures of Tibet. All I can say is I will be one unhappy camper if I never have the chance to visit Tibet. The images I came across depicted scenery completely different from anything I have ever witnessed in person. Sharp mountain peaks and sprawling palaces blew me away. For instance, the Potala Palace is awe-inspiring and Mt. Everest pretty much speaks for itself. Lake Manasarova is another must-see, as well as the Tashilumpo Monastery. I hope I have the chance to visit all of these places!
The Lake
The Palace
The culture is utterly different from American culture as well. Visiting Belgian last summer, I didn’t experience culture shock even though I only spoke English. However, I believe that traveling to an Asian region such as Tibet would completely throw me for a loop. It would be exhilarating to be thrust into a culture where I had no familiarity with the customs, people, or mannerisms. For example, it is considered impolite in Tibet to spit in front of others or clap your hands behind someone’s back. Imagine if we thought it was rude for Major League Baseball Players to spit while playing? Tibet sounds very quirky, and I think I would fit in pretty well.