In the increasingly competitive world of academics and employment, it can feel like there is a set path you must follow. Backpackers break from this status quo by exploring the world and, in doing so, themselves. By conducting archival research, surveys, interviews, and an ethnography in Panama we investigated the connection between backpacking and developing a sense of purpose. Our findings indicated that, although backpacking does not always directly affect purpose, it does have a positive impact on confidence, worldliness, and independence.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Varano, Lucas
• Fongeallaz, Connor
• Strogach, Terry-Kathryn
• McKinley, Bryce

Subject

• Health
• Community
• Culture
• Well-Being

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-101223-120849
• 114007

Keyword

• Ikigai
• Purpose
• Panama
• Backpacking
• Tourism
• Travel

Advisor

• Davis, Curt J.
• Burrier, Grant A.
• Chiarelli, James A.

Year

• 2023

Center

• Panama City, Panama Project Center - IQP

Sponsor

• Dr. Grant Burrier, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

UN Sustainable Development Goals

• 3 - Good Health and Well-being

Date created

• 2023-10-12

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Source

• E-project-101223-120849

Rights statement

• In Copyright

Last modified

• 2023-12-04