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Discover India
January 2-15, 2010
TRACK 1: MARINE/ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
TRACK 2: TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH SOCIAL WORK
Visit Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Auroville, Pondicherry, Mangalore and Andaman Islands
Join BCA on this amazing journey to coastal India! Start on the west coast in Managalore, the fastest growing coastal city of Karnataka, and finish in the former French colony of Pondicherry on the east coast.
The program offers an opportunity to experience India's rich culture, history and cuisine and serves as an introduction to BCA's India programs in Mangalore and Pondicherry.
Participants will enroll in one of two tracks: marine/environmental science or social work, which mirror BCA's program in marine science located in Pondicherry and BCA's program for social work located in Mangalore. Participants from both tracks will travel, interact and dine to together throughout the trip.
Download the Itinerary for the Seminar here
Download a Flier about the Seminar here
Track: Marine/Environmental Science
- Interact with faculty, researchers, and students
- Snorkel, scuba, and enjoy the waters of the Andaman Islands and the coral reefs of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.
- Learn about BCA’s field research programs at the Foundation for Ecological Research, Advocacy and Learning (FERAL) in Pondicherry, and College of Fisheries in Mangalore
- Experience India’s rich culture, history and cuisine
- Explore the wonders of India by touring temples and coastlines
About The Andamans
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are two groups of islands in the southeastern part of Bay of Bengal and are separated by the 10° N parallel. The Andaman group is larger of the two. These islands are known for their tropical rain forests, coral reefs and mangrove forests.
Given its location, the flora and fauna have Indian, Malaysian and Burmese origins. Several indigenous tribes still inhabit many of the islands. Initial settlers from mainland India were prisoners and indentured labor transported by the British. Today's population is a mix of several communities, mainly Bengali and Tamilian. Population growth, increasing tourist influx and development has put huge pressure on the islands natural systems.
Track: Transforming Lives through Social Work
- Meet faculty and students at School of Social Work at Roshni Nilaya, Mangalore
- Tour and visit Auroville
- Visit international field placement sites that include NGOs and agencies, schools and groups in Managlore that host BCA and Roshni Nilaya students
- Experience India’s rich culture, history and cuisine
- Explore the wonders of India by touring temples and coastlines
About Mangalore
Mangalore is the southernmost fast 
growing coastal city of Karnataka State and boasts a rich multicultural history. Beautiful and scenic, the city boasts lush green surroundings, the confluence of two rivers and a peaceful atmosphere. With a long history in maritime trading, Mangalore is still a major exporter of cashews and coffee. Trade has also led to all three major communities – Hindu, Muslim and Christian - settling down and contributing to its unique culture. The town has an old world charm of traditional tile roofs peeking through coconut palm groves amidst the newer apartment buildings that have been built to accommodate its growth.
About Pondicherry
A former French colony Pondicherry is situated on the east coast, about 160 kms south of Chennai. Pondicherry has grown substantially around the central planned area of boulevards and heritage buildings built by the French who ruled for almost 300 years. Its history and major attractions have brought about a curious mix of the local and international flavor to the streets of Pondy—be it cuisine, architecture or curios.
We hope you will join us to learn with experts about some of development’s impacts on India’s coastal ecosystem, interact with BCA’s partners who work with our students, and explore the scenery of coconut trees, beaches, temples and churches.
Accommodation, Meals and Fees
Cost is $2,250 (doesn't include airfare from U.S. to India)
Deadline is November 30, 2009
Cost will include seminar registration, ground transportation, two meals a day and accommodations and travel within India. Interested participants will need to purchase round-trip air tickets from the U.S. to India.
Contact Information
Robert William
Program Manager – India
BCA Study Abroad
50 Alpha Drive
Elizabethtown, PA 17022
rwilliam@bcaabroad.org
717-361-6600
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