- August 25, 2022
Learn about Pratik's summer in Nepal!
Pratik (B.S. Computer Science, Economics, and Data Science '25) spent his summer in Nepal working on an educational pilot program that equips secondary school students from socioeconomically disadvantaged groups with digital literacy skills such as Microsoft Office and the basics of computer programming. Read more about Pratik's summer in the interview below!
Can you tell us more about your independent research?
I am currently working with high school students in one of the government schools in Nepal. The project revolves around providing computer programming skills along with soft skills such as writing essays and public speaking to high school students. During the program, students learned about the basics of programming, such as web development, and they were matched with external companies for an externship where they learned about how the products are developed and how successful companies are managed and financed.
Lab and interactions with students at school
What have you been enjoying about your day-to-day work?
Since the school is located in the village, it is amazing to be far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. I am leaving near the school itself so the commute only takes around five minutes on foot. After-school talks with the students are probably my favorite part of the experience. Students ask about my journey, and I listen to theirs. Going on a hike on a nearby hill, sharing and debating each other’s philosophy is always amazing.
With students at school
Have you visited any new places?
I, along with my friend, went on a trek to the Langtang region. It was a seven-day trek along the mountains to the Tibetan region near the China border. It was breath taking to see human settlement and community at such a high altitude. People in this region spoke Tibetan/ Sherpa language, used horses and mules for transporting goods, and domesticated Yaks for their dairy products. We reached an altitude of 5033 meters (16,512 ft.), setting a new personal record for my high-altitude adventure.
Langtang Region