Volunteer Experience in Senegal: INCREDIBLE!

Although I did a fair amount of research on volunteer programs before deciding to go with Projects Abroad, and even more research on the program and country of Senegal after deciding to go there, I still didn't know quite what I was getting into. In short, the experience exceeded my expectations in the most positive way, and I got more out of the opportunity than I ever thought I would.
The Projects Abroad staff was supportive and information from the first day I spoke with a representative before committing to the program well after my departure date from Senegal, even through this day. The on-site coordinators were always there to assist in times of need but were never overbearing. They always treated me as a friend, and with the utmost respect, making me feel comfortable in any situation while I was in Saint-Louis.
In Senegal, I had the opportunity to volunteer in both education and care placements, both of which I found incredibly fulfilling. Teaching English classes, I felt as though I was really making a difference in advancing the knowledge of eager learners of the language, and in the talibe center, I felt that what I did, along with the center coordinators and other volunteers, truly benefited the lives of children in great need. I would love to have been a part of more projects or continued my work at the school and at the center if only I had had the time!
I can still picture walking down the sandy streets, watching the little Senegalese children play football, and hearing them shout friendly greetings to me, as they did each day. Their voices, along with the kindness of my host family and all the Senegalese people who I came to know, and the great times I had with other Projects Abroad volunteers, I will always carry with me. I would not change a thing about my decision to volunteer with Projects Abroad in Saint-Louis, Senegal, and I recommend the experience to anyone.