Alumni Spotlight: Kent Mathiasson

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Kent Mathiasson is a 45 year old male from Sweden who volunteered in Galapagos from October 8 to October 27. After spending 13 years in school, he started to work at his parent's supermarket which he eventually took over and ran for 11 years. After 25 years of working, Mathiasson is now ready to start studying again.

Why did you decide to volunteer abroad with GET Ecuador in the Galapagos?

I booked my trip through volontarresor in Sweden and they are the ones who contacted you for the trip to Galapagos. I'm glad they used you because you (through Karla) really took care of me. With phone call just to check in so that everything was okay and fixed when something didn't work out for me. So thank you so much. If I'm ever going back to Ecuador and need any help I will contact you.

Describe your day to day activities as a volunteer.

My day as a volunteer took place on San Cristobal island up in the mountains in a reforestation place run by Jatun Sacha. Several days we cut down Mora (Blackberry a plant that don't belong on the Galapagos). But sadly it didn't rain on my two weeks there so we couldn't plant anything instead we improved the place with a volleyball court and a campfire. Not really what I expected but I didn't mind. We had a lot of fun there.

What made this volunteer abroad experience unique and special?

The one thing that mad this trip so unique and special was that it was on the Galapagos. If I would describe paradise with one word it would be Galapagos.

How has this experience impacted your future?

This trip has made a huge impact on me and my future. I have thought of become a vet for a time and during this trip a decide to go further with the plans. Just a few days ago I sent in the applications. I see if I get in.