Gonpo Lama ’12 – Religion and Sociology double-major
Gonpo Lama ’12, although ethnically a Tibetan, was born in Kathmandu, Nepal. The son of refugee parents, he has spent most of his life moving from country to country. Having completed his middle school in Nepal, high school in India and currently pursuing his undergraduate studies in the United States, he speaks several languages apart from his native Tibetan. These include Nepalese, English, Chinese, Hindi, and a smattering of French. Apart from his proficiency in languages, he also dabbles in music as a baritone in the Williams College Concert Choir and a bassist/guitarist in the Williams College All Acoustic Alliance. For the 2010-2011 academic year, Gonpo Lama was selected to be a Junior Advisor (JA) for the Class of 2014 and the co-Chair of the Williams College International Club.
Growing up in a Buddhist family, in a country predominantly Hindu, and educated in a Presbyterian Christian school, Gonpo has always been interested in different cultures and societies, which explains his decision to dual major in Religion and Sociology. He hopes to continue his education in upon graduation, although he is unsure of whether to pursue his interests in academia, policymaking, or through non-governmental organizations. However, he is committed to specializing in refugees and diaspora communities in the world.
Gonpo Lama is currently finishing his third year in Williams College and is a student lab monitor at the Language Laboratory in Hollander Hall.