I like the idea of imparting whatever knowledge I have to those who need it, and I found in the "after school support" program what I was aiming for. I am into analyzing things around me – people, their reactions, etc. I want to know the why, how, and what.
The experience of teaching children abroad in a different culture was a demand. Additionally, I chose this program because of the affordable program cost and positive reviews about it.
The follow up from IVHQ was great. The provider took care of airport pick-up, accommodation, one cooked meal per day available in volunteer's accommodation, as well as daily pick-up from residence to placement and back. The local staff in Romania have supported me in many ways to overcome culture shock on my first volunteering experience. On my own, I had to organize flight ticket and apply for the Visa.
It's fun! At the same time, you are volunteering to benefit the program you are engaged in, and also yourself. Prepare yourself before you participate. If you are well prepared, it will be an advantage to you and to the program.
The day starts by waking up at around 7:15 AM, then walking about 5 minutes where we meet with one of the local staff at 8:10 to drive us in his van to the placement. The camp starts by 9:00. At 10:30, a snack break until 11:00, then from 1:00 to 2:00 PM lunch time. Normally by 2 PM, the van comes to pick up those who want to go back to their accommodation, while there is an option to stay in the camp with the children till 5:00 pm; one of the local staff will drive you back to your residence.
My biggest fear was that I might not be able to achieve the required objective, and fail to do things right. Most importantly, I was afraid of the impact and effect that will my failure will leave on both sides. Thankfully, the local IVHQ team was so kind and supportive, and they put me at ease. Their support and assistance greatly helped me pass my volunteering experience successfully.
Probably, it’s that I should’ve invested more time studying topics about children, their concerns, and their psychology before traveling. That way, I could have had a better understanding of how they think and their perspectives on different matters. However, I am really happy that the feedback on me was good, and my experience in the "after school support" program was successful.