I heard about this program through a friend and one of my main concerns before embarking on this adventure was is it safe. Therefore, knowing that someone went through this program and that they had a good experience gave me courage to do it myself. I was also interested in teaching kids English because I had previous experience with it and I really enjoyed it. Moreover, I think that organic farming is very important, so I wanted to try that and I wanted to explore a completely different country than my own.
Alumni Spotlight: Dinka Gojun
Dinka is a Croatian girl who studies in Scotland. She loves traveling and getting to know new people and different cultures.
Why did you choose this program?
What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
I contacted the organization that I was going to volunteer with directly, so I didn’t have any help from my university. The help that I received was all from the organization and they helped me with figuring out if I needed vaccinations, a visa and transportation. Any questions or worries that I had were answered.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
I would definitely suggest having a driving license is a plus because the best way to get around a place like Bali is with a motorbike. Definitely be cautious of your surroundings because it is a new environment. However, I would also advise them not to worry too much and to enjoy themselves as much as possible.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
I usually woke up around 7 in the morning and the sun was already shining. Then I would eat, have coffee and get ready. Once I was ready, I would walk to the farm which was a 25min walk (I suggest going with a motorbike) and I would be there around 8am. Then I would do some gardening or help around with whatever was needed. Afterward, I would go back home and see if I could help with anything in the office, if not then I would enjoy my free time. In the afternoon, around 4pm I would go back to the farm and teach the local children conversational English. That would end around 5.30-6pm and then I would have more free time.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
I mostly feared if I would be and feel safe since I was a young girl traveling by herself. However, once I have arrived and the people who lead this program showed me around and guided me to where I needed to go and what I needed to do, I figured my way around and how to get to places. Honestly, at no point did I feel unsafe and that made me even happier.
What's your advice to other volunteers?
I think that a very useful thing to know when traveling to Bali is the application called GOJEK. You can order food from it or a ride whether it be with a motorbike or a car. I’ve used it countless times to order food and get around since I don’t have a driving license and it’s quite affordable. It’s definitely worth a download!