Volunteers Abroad Reviews and Feedbacks

My Favorite Memory: We painted a huge tree mural with all the students from the 3 schools in the slum. The kids put their handprints on it as leaves J they loved it! The whole community came and watched. Next to it I wrote “The Beautiful Children of India”. Now they have something nice to look at outside the school’s window.

I was surprised that: The description on the site was a bit different from the actual program. I wasn’t expecting the school to be so remedial. Also I didn’t know there were so many other people who would be living with me who came from other organizations. I was happy to be there and I really enjoyed it, but it would have been nice to be more prepared.

Most difficult experience: It was definitely the first day. I had a 3 day journey to get there, and was exhausted and smelly. Then I landed in Jaipur late and the coordinator wasn’t there to pick me up. I’ve never felt so lost and scared in my life. I had never been away from home alone like this, and I had culture shock on top of it. I found a phone and after finding some people to help me I was able to connect with the coordinator. That first day was rock bottom, but after that I fell in love with India and I don’t regret going at all. In fact, I’d go back.

Lessons learned: I learned a lot about being humble, and the importance of going to other countries where I am a minority. Americans tend to stay in their comfort zones, expecting everyone else to change and to make the effort. It was a big wake up call to go to a third world country and have poor toot toot drivers know more languages than me. Volunteering in India made me want to use what little power I have to help people and most importantly, to listen to their stories and their struggles. It’s not all about us.

Tips to other volunteers: Don’t hold back because you’re afraid! J The things we fear are not near as big or scary as we think. Sightsee, take pictures, wear that culture’s clothing, and give volunteering your all. You are there for a reason. Love the children and the adults. Learn about their struggles and think about how you can help them. You will meet amazing people and see amazing things. Hold them close and tell all your friends when you get back J

Testimonial: I am 18 years old, a girl, a disciple of Christ, from the United States. Everyone was surprised by my decision to travel alone halfway across the world to a third world country instead of going right to college. But I felt led by God to do it, and I am soooo so happy that I went. India is a beautiful place. It’s not always easy there-nothing is reliable. But the people are sweet and welcoming. The children blossom under any care or attention. I have such a passion for these people and their country. I want to help the people in the slums. They were so kind to me. If you are young, or old, beautiful, or ugly, a boy, a girl…whatever…and you are thinking about volunteering, DO IT. Just humble yourself and go. There are things you have that can help other people, and there’s no doubt in my mind that if you keep your heart open, you’ll grow too.

Willing to speak to others: Yes