I chose The Maji Safi Project because the water crisis is a growing problem in the world today. I wanted to go to Tanzania to help and learn more about it. Also, it is a Critical Issues program so it is based around the service work and the water crisis. Also, I wanted a trip that was more focused on service.
Alumni Spotlight: Lauren Goll
Lauren is a 16-year old who first discovered her love for traveling on family vacations. She loves seeing new places and learning about different cultures.
Why did you choose this program?
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
Rustic Pathways assisted me with the packing list and flying to Tanzania. The packing list that they gave us was super helpful and had everything I needed for the trip. They had flight leaders that I met with in the airport, and they flew with us. I only had to organize a ride to the airport and apply for a visa, but if I needed any help with my visa, Rustic would always offer help.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
Don't be nervous. I was really nervous going into this trip like I am with all my Rustic trips, but this one was totally different. The people who come on this trip are the most amazing people you will ever meet. The same goes for the leaders. The leaders will also help you if you’re having any trouble adjusting to being in a new country.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
A day when we were doing service would usually start with an 8 AM breakfast before being driven over to Maji Safi where we would check in to see what work we needed to do. Then we would drive over to the service area if needed. Then, we come back to Maji Safi for lunch. In the afternoon, we would play games with school children. After that, we would have dinner and then all hang out before bed.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
My biggest fear was meeting new people. However, as soon as I started to meet my group, that fear went away immediately. My group was really genuine and down to earth. We became really close in the first few days of the trip, and I was able to get really comfortable around them. Also, we all got along really well together.
How do I know if this is the right program for me?
This program is for people who really love service and who really want to make a change in the world. It's also for people who love the environment and want to learn more about the water crisis. If this sounds like you, I encourage you to go on this trip. It will be so amazing!