Written by William McCall Symms, 2023-24 Latitudes Student
This semester has been an immensely enriching learning experience for me. Following a consistent schedule has been both demanding and enjoyable. Every day involves going out to collect data and conduct field research, not only on elephants but also on other species negatively impacted by humans, with the main focus being to reduce human-wildlife conflicts.
A great part of this experience is how much I get to look into the lives of the locals because if we want to help the animals, it’s important to understand how the locals perceive these problems. Throughout my time here, I have even had the opportunity to work with many of the locals, leading to many friendships. The staff and locals in this area are extremely kind and always willing to help with anything I might need.
I think being in such a rural area has provided me with an extremely authentic experience. Every day I start with a morning activity ranging from dozens of different activities such as interviewing villagers or building a butterfly garden, and I’ve even had the chance to initiate new research projects. After a lunch break of fresh homemade food, we go out every afternoon to search for elephants and gather data. Thus far, I’ve seen hundreds of elephants and learned something new every time I see them.
Challenges and Growth
Something that has challenged me throughout this experience is adapting to the customs of rural Sri Lanka. It is so different from my home environment and even other parts of the country, such as the cities. Understanding how to respond, behave, and even express gratitude has been something that I have been trying to figure out. Now that I’ve been here for some time, I believe I am much better adapted, but it took a while to learn and get used to these things.
One other thing I’ve found challenging is that I am the only one here staying for so long. I’ve met and said goodbye to so many people already; even staff have left in the time I’ve been here. While I find making so many friends very rewarding, it’s a bit challenging to say goodbye as quickly as I meet people.
Highlights of the Journey
Some highlights so far have been from my travels on the weekends. While I’m here volunteering, I get the weekends off to travel around and see more of Sri Lanka. I have explored most of the east and central parts of Sri Lanka and even had the opportunity to travel to the coast and stay at the beach.
One of my favorite parts of traveling around Sri Lanka has been visiting all of the temples I come across, with everything from cave temples carved into the side of mountains to the last remaining part of Buddha, his tooth. I have plans in the future to head to the south, where I’ve heard there are beautiful beaches and delicious food.
Overall, I think it has been a very important part of my trip to move around and see all the different parts that Sri Lanka has to offer.
Surprising Discovery
I think something that surprised me a lot has been how kind everyone is here. Not just the staff, but anyone you meet and talk to is always extremely kind and generous. This has really helped me, especially when asking for directions or suggestions. I also notice this is especially present when interacting with smaller villages; they seem to have so much trust in each other and everyone they meet.
Because I’ve been doing such hands-on research here, it has helped me learn so much about conservation and data collection. Talking and exchanging information with other people has also taught me so much. I believe many of the things I’ve learned here can help in any sustainable context I might come across in the future.
Inspired by William’s gap year? Learn more about the Latitudes Year and carve out your own journey!
