An Internship in Bhutan: Lessons Beyond Money

As a Stanford Graduate School of Business student, I faced a difficult choice when it came to selecting an internship.

The school's international program, the Global Management Immersion Experience, required completion through either international work or coursework on global business. I received two internship offers. One was ideal: analyzing family office investments in Madrid. With my New York University background in finance and statistics, and years spent trading in Chicago, this seemed like a logical progression.

However, the other option was more unconventional—a month-long role as an IT consultant at a hazelnut farm in Bhutan.

Ever since visiting Tibet at 17, I'd dreamed of returning to that part of the world. Bhutan held a special allure. It was a personal versus professional dilemma; my heart beckoned toward Bhutan despite the impracticality for my career. Ultimately, I decided to follow my heart.

The Journey to Bhutan

In August 2023, after a 14-hour flight to New Delhi and another five-hour journey, I arrived in Bhutan.

My first Bhutan encounter included meeting the charismatic British CEO of Mountain Hazelnuts, who guided me to Tiger's Nest—the famed monastery requiring a strenuous two-hour climb.

Though I planned to embrace the challenges of discomfort without complaint, I found the second day notably tough—heat, sweat, and mud surrounded me, yet reaching the top was worth every bit of strain.

Subsequently, we undertook a lengthy journey to Lingmethang, where I'd reside above the corporate premises and work at the farm.

My work involved balancing a modest IT budget and bolstering backup security. It dawned on me that I was out of my depth initially. Yet, focusing intensely on problem-solving showed me I could adapt and learn.

Daily Life and Local Immersion

After work, I'd explore the village, enjoying local beer and momos with colleagues. Despite a simpler lifestyle which contrasted with Stanford's buzz, I found joy in it.

Living with fewer luxuries in the village didn't diminish my happiness. The absence of technologies I enjoyed back in Palo Alto made the beauty around me more appreciable.

Nights required battling mosquitoes, as the local culture did not favor exterminating them—a minor hurdle when my insect repellent ran out. Adjusting to mainly vegetarian meals was another small challenge.

Valuable Lessons

Now, back in New Jersey as an options trader, I reflect on how that internship, though not career-centered, enhanced my confidence in tackling unfamiliar problems.

The camaraderie I experienced at Mountain Hazelnuts, where collective effort trumped monetary incentives, was remarkable. Barbecues with singing and dancing nights fostered unity absent of complaints.

I wish to instill this ethos of loyalty-eclipsing monetary gain in my future workplaces. I don't regret choosing Bhutan and anticipate visiting again someday.