Youthlinc’s Global Community Leadership (GCL) piloted a new program this summer and recently returned from an inspiring two-week expedition in the Langtang National Park, Nepal. This immersive study abroad program, a collaboration between Youthlinc, Utah State University Outdoor Programs (OP), two Nepali organizations (Insight Himalaya and Waves for Water Nepal) aimed to provide students with a deep understanding of the trekking industry, distribute water filters to villages, and experience the majestic Himalayan landscapes. Students enrolled in the program received University undergraduate course credit focused on global outdoor leadership.
The team was led by OP’s Associate Director, Dan Galliher and Youthlinc’s Global Community Leadership Director, Jessica Roueche. The group, consisting of one support staff in OP and nine enthusiastic USU students, then embarked on an 11-day trek through the heart of the Himalayas, covering approximately 70 miles across diverse terrains.
Service-Learning and Personal Growth
The trek took the team to an elevation of 16,980 feet, presenting challenges and breathtaking views. From riverbanks and waterfalls to the remnants of the 2015 earthquake in Langtang Valley, the students encountered a range of environments. Brennan Harris, a USU Outdoor Product & Design student, reflected, “This met my expectations by helping push me to do things that I never thought I could handle. I learned that even though things are tough, if you push through, there are always rainbows on the other side.”
The journey wasn’t just about the physical trek; it was also a cultural exchange, embodying diplomacy through service. The team learned from local porters, trek guides, cooks, and Insight Himalaya team members. Binod Rai, the co-founder of Insight Himalaya and Youthlinc’s Nepal Program coordinator, shared insights into the tourism industry and local culture.
A significant part of the program focused on promoting diplomacy through service with the collaborative efforts of distributing water filters to three villages along the route. This experience profoundly impacted the students. Justin Blaylock noted, “I wanted to gain a global perspective, and I did! As we talked with our Nepali friends, I found that people across cultures are not so different. We are all just humans trying to make it in a challenging world. Seeing the joy and excitement in Nepali people’s faces as they accepted water filters made me so happy and made me want to help people more.”
The team’s itinerary also included tours of Bhaktapur and the Stupa in Kathmandu, enriching their understanding of Nepalese history and spirituality. The journey was not without its hardships, but the challenges forged strong bonds among the team members. “I grew so much as a person here and will look back at this experience as something I will never forget. Highly would recommend this to anyone interested,” said Jason Murdock, a USU student.
Looking Forward
The success of this program has paved the way for future expeditions. GCL and USU’s Outdoor Programs are committed to continuing this partnership, offering students unique opportunities to engage in service, adventure, and cross-cultural exchange. As they plan for next year’s trip, they hope to inspire more students to join and experience the transformative power of global service learning.
For students and stakeholders interested in joining next year’s expedition or learning more about the program changes, stay tuned for updates and opportunities to get involved in the upcoming fall semester. This journey promises not only to challenge your physical limits but also to expand your global perspective and create lasting memories with the Nepalese people, culture, and landscapes.
This transformative trek was more than just a journey through the mountains; it was an adventure of the heart and mind, leaving an indelible mark on everyone involved.
