Have you ever thought of getting away from the stresses of living in a large city while also contributing to the development of a “wonderful” country?  When I was given the opportunity to go to Bhutan and work at Royal Thimphu College, I didn’t have to think about it for long - although it meant leaving a very decent salary in Vancouver, for “volunteer” wages in Thimphu.  I jumped at the chance as I knew that opportunities in Bhutan do not come around very often, and it has been a country that I have wanted to visit.

As the Senior Advisor for Administration, Finance, Development and International Relations, it means that I am mentoring all the local, Bhutanese staff in the non-academic departments of the College.  I cannot say that my job nor the living environment does not present challenges, but I can say that my last 6 months have been among the most rewarding of my career (and I have been an expat. for over 20 years).  The Bhutanese people speak excellent English and with their lovely, calm demeanour, they are fantastic to work with. 

Living conditions on campus, while basic, are located in a very serene setting among the mountains.  It certainly does get cold at night during the winter months, and the oil heaters do not provide a lot of warmth, but it is an experience that I would not trade for the comforts of a Western home.  Shopping for groceries can also be a challenge, but it does make for some interesting pot luck dinners!

I feel that I am extremely lucky to have been given the opportunity to work in Bhutan – a county that is relatively closed to foreigners.  If you think that you would like to teach at Royal Thimphu College starting in August 2013, we will be hiring business, math, English, and other lecturers.  Check out our website at www.rtc.bt and then contact me at julia[at]rtc.bt.

All photos courtesy and copyright Julia Saurazas