I’ve been in Phoenix for a couple days now since finals ended, and I can’t believe I thought these 6 days would be lax… It’s been a whirlwind planning two separate programs abroad since I’ll be studying for 3 weeks in Japan before flying straight to India! I’ve had an exhaustive to-do-list, so I don’t feel like I’ve had time to process that I’ll be exploring 2 incredible countries within the next 4 months. I know I’m thrilled deep down, but I’ve been so focused on preparing all my travel documents, shopping, running around minute clinics, and more that I haven’t had much time to breathe. Not sure if I’ll ever really feel “ready” to go, but I’ve always felt this way before going abroad.
With some networking advice, I was able to find an internship at Parodevi Pictures in Mumbai, India. Here, I will produce feminist videos and podcasts, and write articles about healthy attitudes toward bodies, sexuality, love, and relationships. The creator, Paromita Vohra, has led symposiums at the UMich on her films that dissect gender inequalities and perceptions in India. In India, conversations regarding love, sexuality, and femininity are often met with shyness and shame. So, Parodevi creates uplifting and entertaining online resources for women’s empowerment. They face the patriarchy through such a head-on, public manner, and are relentless, courageous catalysts for social change. Their ideologies are considered rebellious and therefore may attract opposition against their wishes. This is exactly why this area could use more passionate voices to fight for the feminist cause.
I’m still figuring out my housing situation, but that’s okay! I was able to talk to Sanchet on the phone (a student from Mumbai who completed a fellowship at U of M), because he’s been advising me through the housing process and suggested I stay with his family friends. He’s going to pass along the details on rent coverage, the contract, and room set-up. But, as of now, I know it’s a service apartment, and I may be living with another Indian-American female who is currently studying filmmaking in Mumbai! The family that would be hosting us lives in the apartment one floor above in this complex. Sanchet told me he lives in this area too (Andheri West), and that he really enjoys it. I’ve heard it’s a lot like Los Angeles, but I definitely still don’t know what to expect.
I definitely feel overwhelmed and rushed right now, but I know this summer will be more than worth the loss of down-time in winter semester. I’m so grateful for this opportunity through SISA, and the help I’ve received through the advising process (shout-out to Janelle, Morgan, and Ariana!). These ladies have not just been logistically helpful, but emotionally encouraging.
Well, I’m off to Japan the day after tomorrow! It’s beyond my wildest dream what’s truly in store for this summer, but I can’t wait to find out what it’s like to explore how working in the creative entertainment industry can help to promote positive ideologies in society.