All of tumblr.com has already been blocked by the Chinese government, and (sadly) with only a week left in China, I think I can start giving everyone a better idea what I have been studying over the last month. Here is the abstract for my paper:

Abstract:

            Though Tibetan nationalism is dwindling in Tibet (by Tibet I refer to the three provinces of Lhasa, Amdo, and Kham in China and not in reference to The Tibet Autonomous Region), Tibetans have established Diasporas in India with extreme national pride. For the Tibetans who aren’t born in India, others will make the pilgrimage to learn more about their culture. The situation in India is appealing from an educational and even a fiscal standpoint, so some choose to linger or even start a new life. However, most Tibetans have pushed aside the so-called opportunity of west, so that they can return home in China. Unfortunately, they find upon return that their education in India does not help them improve their life and must deal with more adversities than expected. Dealing with issues like unemployment and ever-changing family roles, many Tibetans struggle to live in their own country. Using Shangri-La as a case study, this paper focuses on: the quality of life in China for these returning Tibetans; Shangri-La’s yield of success to Tibetans; and proves the pilgrimage a process worth undertaking.

Let me know if you are interested in reading more by emailing me at:

henry.mckenna@coloradocollege.edu