Turning 30 and never have travelled before! Been in an academic bubble and stuck in my comfort zone.
Alumni Spotlight: Sam Willenburg
What inspired you to go abroad?
Why did you choose your specific program/organization?
I know Alex from UCT days way back when. Following him on Facebook and YouTube inspired me to take a leap of faith and pack my bags and get out there.
What was your favorite part of your host country/city?
Culture rich environment. Food, drinks, people...all so amazing and intriguing!
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
Submerging myself in the culture. Trying new things, meeting new people and being open-minded!
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
Very well.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
Come sooner!
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
Wake up - best coffee in the world - training/working - lunch at different places everyday - training/working - supper at a different place every night - trying to sleep in a city that doesn't sleep.
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
The excitement of new things, adventure, broadening my horizons and seeing how big the world is...and simultaneously how small it is too. We are all connected in some way.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
Hotel - OYO holiday hotel.
Central, close to everything.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Come with an open mind, be open to new people, new places and new food. Be flexible and be yourself.
Would you recommend your program/provider to others? Why?
Yes! Ninja Teacher is amazing. Great staff, great training, and amazing support and guidance.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
Open your mind.
Get out of your comfort zone.
Challenge yourself.
Become stronger.
Find yourself.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Not going home anytime soon.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Soul searching.
Traveling to challenge all you know and have come to believe.