A Summer Well Spent

I lived in Uganda for two months this summer and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I'm a college student and I really found the IVHQ program to be affordable, not to mention the support from the international staff and the local staff. My questions were always answered promptly and I always had access to any information that I needed. I really appreciated how approachable and communicative the staff was, especially since I was a woman traveling alone. I always felt very safe.

While in Uganda, I served at Royal Nursery and Daycare, a day school for children ages 3-9. The children stole my heart, the the needs of the school were numerous. I did what I could to help, really trying to listen to what the teachers needed, and I can only hope that future volunteers will do the same.

I also got the chance to travel while in country. I took multiple day trips to Kampala and Entebbe, since the program house is located on the main road between the two cities. I went to a Uganda soccer game. I went whitewater rafting on the Nile River in Jinja. I took a weekend hiking trip to Sipi Falls. I went to the botanical gardens and wildlife conservation center in Entebbe. I went shopping at many different craft markets.

The friendships I formed locally and with other volunteers are ones that I cherish. I got a cold while I was there and had to stay home for a few days and the local staff took such great care of me, making me special food and taking turns checking on me. It meant so much to me. overall, the program was a wonderful experience and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an opportunity to serve others while getting to travel and go on adventures. My only regret is that the summer ended so quickly.