Volunteering abroad is the perfect way to see a new place, learn about the culture and have a meaningful holiday. A lot of small non-profit organisations accept volunteers on a rolling basis, whether for a day or a few months. Language schools and travel companies generally offer assistance for interested volunteers in finding the right organisation. Among the many benefits of volunteering abroad, a few stand out above the others:
The opportunity to learn new skills
Depending on what you’re looking to do, you can end up learning about construction, agriculture, health issues, teaching and a host of other things.
Learn, practice or perfect a new language
The best way to pick up a new tongue is to surround yourself with people who speak it!
Make genuine friendships
Helping those who are less fortunate is a great way to build friendships. You can meet like-minded people who also enjoy helping others. The people you end up working with – whether you are helping them or helping with them – will create an experience that you’ll never forget!
Authentic experience
Familiarising yourself with other people is a great way to experience their culture. When people see you doing good work in their community they want to get to know you better, welcome you into their homes and introduce you to their family. General tourists don’t get to see the day-to-day in most countries but volunteers get the real scoop.
Set you apart for job
People who volunteered abroad stand out as interesting and well-rounded individuals to potential employers.
Improve your confidence
Going abroad challenges you to be independent and friendly, two characteristics that will improve your vision of yourself and your outlook on life.
The best advice to enjoy your experience: leave your expectations at home. Your experience of volunteering abroad will be more difficult, more tiring and more fun than you will expect before going. Don’t let expectations that are wrong stop you from enjoying the experience once you arrive. Do your best to adapt to the circumstances and accept every situation as a new opportunity to learn something.
For more information, visit asgereenasitgets.org.
(Featured image: Juber Al-haddad)
