Would-be doctor bids for year-long Indian venture
Published 3 Dec 2009 06:00
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FOR the average school leaver, gap years represent unabashed globetrotting in foreign climes... but not so for one compassionate Dunbar Grammar School pupil.
Head girl Ysabelle Thackray, 16, has delayed enrollment to a medical degree at Glasgow University to undertake a year-long stint helping disadvantaged Indian children.
"We got a talk in school from [gap year charity] Project Trust," said the teenager (pictured) who lives in Cockburnspath. "I knew I wanted to take a gap year because I would be quite a bit younger than others going into university just now."
The S6 pupil, currently studying for her Highers, must raise almost £4,500 to turn her Indian dream into a reality and has planned a series fundraising ventures to achieve her goal.
"I am more nervous about raising enough money than I am about going," she said.
"I'm really looking forward to experiencing a completely different culture and learning about the traditions, festivals, dress and food in India. I anticipate returning a more mature and confident person with skills which will benefit me in both university and life in general."
But as a Westerner who finds spicy food unpalatable, the big-hearted youngster knows she will have to adapt if she is to enjoy her experience to the fullest.
Ysabelle expects to be teaching children aged 5-18 in rural India but may be seconded to help with a medical project - in keeping with her goal to become a doctor.
"I also hope to take up a another project which will involve me in the community, for example working in HIV education workshops," she said. "The project will allow me to work with the community without replacing local employment."
To pay for the trip with Project Trust in August, Ysabelle has arranged a ceilidh next Saturday (December 12) at the Haddington Corn Exchange from 7pm-11pm with live band 'Lightening Jack and the Riverbugs'. Tickets cost £5 (£4 for under-18s').
Later next year she also plans to compete in the Edinburgh Chris Hoy half marathon. To sponsor Ysabelle email her on yzzy@hotmail.co.uk
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