Having never visited any part of Asia, I am sadly lacking in knowledge of this beautiful part of the world. Unfortunately, I am aware many places in Nepal do not have nearly the same living and working conditions as we enjoy in Western Europe. This, I would not have known - and would not have ever experienced had it not been for this trip. I would like to help in any way I can, which will include helping to rebuild facilities that have been damaged by a recent earthquake.

There are other positive aspects of the visit as well - I may grow to know the others on the trip perhaps almost as well as I know siblings. I will be pushed to my limits - walking for extended periods of time does not come without effort for me - but my peers will also be strained. This will establish a deeper connection between us as we will see each other at our breaking points. It will then teach us patience and how to aid someone who is struggling to physically (or even mentally) continue. During my exam years, this knowledge of how to deal with my own stress and others’ will be essential.

Furthermore, as someone who speaks only English but loves languages and is learning another, the immersion in a foreign tongue would be a very beneficial experience. Finally, as my group will visit Nepal as representatives our school, area, and indeed Scotland, we must take on a responsibility that we previously haven’t experienced.