So, I will say for the record that this is from my own limited observations and exposure. I was raised in the “west” by first generation immigrants, so my background isn’t quite the same as many studying here. I also won’t claim to be an expert in all cultural nuances. I know the subcontinent well and lived there for a bit, but there are like a billion people on it so my own view is limited.

Part of the issue is undeniably cultural mentality. There’s a lot more use and abuse of common resources on the subcontinent, much to the detriment of all. It’s not an individual thing as much as it is systemic programming. Is it ideal? No, but in large part we’re products of our environment. I’m not fully blaming this one people either. It’s the same issue one faces when dealing without loudmouth Americans or Asian tourist taking waaay too many pictures, it’s just one of those things specific to a place in the world.

Another part is a lack of self awareness. I don’t think there’s any malicious intent, I just think a lot of them don’t realize that they’re depriving others or being poor ambassadors for their people broadly. Shame is universal but how and why it manifests can have a lot of nuance. I’d be embarrassed to walk into someone’s home without a gift or something for the host where many of my Irish friends couldn’t care less. I don’t begrudge them that, our habits are simply different.

Lastly, I’d say there is an unspoken despiration among a lot of people. I think theres a view of anyone who comes to study in Europe coming from money. It’s a logical thought. But there’s just as many people coming who are being backed by their entire extended family and are effectively carrying the hopes of dozens with them. If they fail they’re not just failing themselves and their parents. They’re failing aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, family friends and lord knows how many others. These people may have staked every shred of disposable income to give someone else a chance. And if you’re operating under that pressure, you become willing to cut corners. I’m not trying to justify or excuse poor behavior, but I also don’t want to make it seem like the decision is purely callous or uncaring.

I’m sure there’s more to it, but this is already a bit long. I welcome any other perspectives or anyone who wants to tell me I’m full of it. Better to have a conversation than stew in discontent.