Alumni Spotlight: Laura Olivieri

Laura Olivieri volunteered in Albania from August to September, 2011. She is from Luxembourg, and living and studying in Vienna (science of teaching and education).

Why did you decide to volunteer with Love Volunteers in Albania?

Laura: I chose the program with Love Volunteers because it seemed serious and it did not cost as much as other programs. As I didn't want to travel long distance, I chose Albania and I thought it would be a good opportunity for my first volunteering.

views of a river in Albania

Describe your day to day activities as a volunteer.

Laura: As the program was not going on I had a lot of free time. On some days I went to a kindergarten where they didn't really need me, on other days I traveled. Sometimes I tried to find other programs which I could join... It was depressing finding yourself somewhere where you are not needed at all and where no program is going (as you expected it).

What made this volunteer experience unique and special?

Laura: I met a lot of nice people and I learned a lot.

How has this experience helped you grow personally and professionally?

Laura: All in all I enjoyed the time but it was definitely not worth paying money for a programm which is not going on at that time you are in that country. Not to forget is that it is more difficult to meet any locals while you are not working on a program/project.