Students Explore Sustainability and Culture in India

From the Taj Mahal in Agra to the countryside of Maharashtra, York College students and faculty explored India through a 10-day study-abroad experience focused on environmental, social and economic sustainability.

Led by Health Science professor Dr. Efstathia Korkou, the program took three York students -- Segrid Scotto, a Public Health major; Sadeeq Nathanel, a Psychology major; and Igyeicy Barriola, a Health Science major -- across several regions for academic sessions, cultural excursions and hands-on learning. As part of a CUNY-wide cohort, they also connected with students from colleges across the University.

For Barriola, a session on patient rights at KIMS University strengthened her desire to pursue nursing. “It’s about human decency.”

Nathanel said he got “an additional take from students in the high school and colleges as well as the small children. “though not speaking English, we connected through games and ball.”

Meanwhile, Scotto said a session on patient rights at KIMS University reaffirmed her desire to pursue nursing and advocate for patients.

Dr. Korkou called the trip “a truly once-in-a-lifetime educational experience,” saying students gained a deeper appreciation for India’s diversity while experiencing sustainability beyond the classroom.