The TEXT Program

Tibetans in Exile Today | Study Abroad In India
Testimonials: Lessons in Compassion

Our Mission, Your Project

The TEXT Program, an acronym for Tibetans in Exile Today, is an oral-history project designed to record the stories of the Tibetans who are currently living in exile in India. The Program primarily focuses on Tibetans who left their country in 1959, but who still have vivid memories of traditional Tibetan culture—a culture that is being steadily eradicated.  Each Tibetan has a unique story to tell, and this program offers them an opportunity to share their stories with the world. The TEXT Program has recently begun interviewing younger Tibetans as well, and the result is a wide of array of perspectives from the Tibetan diaspora.  Assisted by professional videographers, each student who travels with us will design, conduct, transcribe, and help edit an interview that will be permanently archived and available to the public on our YouTube channel.

What Our Students Are Saying

Eamon Lauster

Eamon Lauster

I had never left the United States before going on the TEXT program, and then I wanted to never go back.

A Special Note from the Dalai Lama

“His Holiness the Dalai Lama was pleased to have been able to visit the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and to know about The TEXT Program. He feels involving the students in this program that records the life stories of elderly Tibetans in exile will enable them to understand the challenges faced by Tibetans and how these are met. Through the process, the students will have a better understanding of the impact of the Tibetan Buddhist culture of nonviolence and compassion on the lives of the Tibetan people through the ages. He wishes your project all success.”

Chhime R. Chhoekyapa
Secretary to His Holiness the Dalai Lama
May 27, 2011

Destinations along the Way

While in India, students will do far more than compile an oral history.  They will also visit some of India’s most popular destinations, like the Taj Mahal, but they will also spend time at other locations, such as Drepung Loseling Monastery, a large complex in south India that Westerners rarely see.  This trip, with its unparalleled access to these places, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Agra, India
Iconic Taj Mahal

Goa,India
Renowned Beach

Dharamsala, India
Sacred Vistas

Question: What Are Your Hopes for Tibet’s Future?

The TEXT Program traditionally ends its interviews by asking the interviewee what his or her hopes are for Tibet’s future. Watch our videos to see some of these extraordinary responses. And remember:  you can become a part of this evolving history of a people in exile struggling to regain their homeland.  We hope you will join our group!

Come Listen!

Select Media Accolades

1. The TEXT Program Featured on ESPNU

Watch the aired Clip!

2. The TEXT Program: Winner of the John A. White Award

Read about our Achievement!

A Look from Previous Years