Program Reviews

I was posted in Pisac, Peru at Ccochahuasi Animal Sanctuary. I had volunteered at a veterinary clinic at home in Houston, but I had no idea how to care for exotic animals. Thankfully, the staff were incredibly nice and showed me how to do everything. I already was fluent in Spanish coming into the program, but while I was in Peru I was able to solidify my language skills through complete immersion. I stayed with a host family in Cusco, who made me traditional Peruvian dishes. On the way home from work, I would often tour the city and try to eat new things or bargain with street vendors. I am so thankful that I did this program because it encouraged me to be independent and create my own sense of identity.

Volunteering with United Planet and ICYE-Denmark was hands down one of the best experiences I've been a part of. From the beginning with Pre-Departure Training United Planet made sure I was prepared for every possible scenario and answered all of my (many) questions. Even after I had departed for my year long quest United Planet was there to lend support, with Meggie (the long term coordinator) checking in each month to see how I was doing. Also, the ICYE-Denmark team did an amazing job of making sure their volunteers were safe and taken care of; every three months we had mandatory weekend check-ins in Odense where the Danish ICYE-volunteers would gather the exchangees and help them through different things like conflict management, every day struggles, homesickness, culture shock, etc. At first I was hesitant about going to Denmark because it wasn't my first choice country but ultimately I'm glad I went because it turned out to be the right country and the right experience. I had the opportunity to volunteering as an English teaching assistant in a Christian school in Copenhagen. From the moment I arrived at the school I was embraced with open arms and treated like part of the community. I was given the chance to be a part of almost all of the English classes for grade 3 through 9 and was part of the after school program with the younger children. As someone who hopes to have a long career in teaching English, it was amazing to be a part of this small school and to experience first hand what the education system was like in other countries.

In addition Denmark is such a rich and exciting country that is filled with so much to see and do. Copenhagen has such a rich history to explore and a vibrant culture; there was never a dull moment and simply walking around the city was enough to entertain me. In addition I was given the chance to explore other areas of the country from the abandoned World War 2 bunkers, to the author HC Anderson's house, and I even got to stand at the highest point of the country where two different oceans merge into one!

Overall United Planet and ICYE-Denmark go out of their way to immerse you into Danish culture and give you the full Danish experience during your stay. From a traditional Danish Christmas, to Fastelavn (the Danish version of our Halloween), to every day life and learning the Danish language, I walked away from the end of my program feeling like I truly created another home for myself in Denmark, bonding with a country and making friends that I know I'll stay in touch with.

I had an amazing time over in Ghana. The first night you will stay in Accra and be able to explore the city with the in country coordinator. From then on, you head to the location where you meet the host family and tour the hospital. I stayed with Mercy and her family and they were amazing! For volunteers, you have our own part of the compound with two rooms, each with at least four beds, and two bathrooms. The organization at the hospital was a little lacking, however if you have the personality to take control of the program, you will get the most out of it.

We went into a bat cave that was a little nervewracking, would have been nice to have a helmet with a flashlight on there or something of that nature but a ton of fun! Taking risks is the best thing you can do for yourself. I am sure the program will be improved to include more sightseeing or include equipment for a better experience in the cave.

The basketball game with the locals was also fun!

My trip to Ghana was great! My coordinator was super helpful and always very quick to reply. They got me connected to the supervisor in Ghana, who picked me up when I arrived and took me to my host family, whom I stayed with for 2 months. I volunteered at the Volta Regional Hospital and was able to witness many different procedures and treatment practices that I never would have been able to anywhere else. The people there were very friendly and welcoming even despite the fact that I was only a temporary visitor. By the end of my trip, I felt comfortable enough to stay much longer.

I had a blast In Switzerland. The people I met and the times I had there are unforgettable. I didn't have one moment where I really missed home due to technology, so when they tell you at some point you'll hate it I don't really see that as an issue. I also had some issues in the area of the Swiss ICYE and it wasn't major so it didn't really change my feelings on how the trip went. I still had the best year of my life abroad in Switzerland and it wouldn't have been possible without United Planet!

We spent a day at a clinic in the south of Quito and it was truly a life changing experience. This clinic has an adult day program, children physio, adult physio, rehab, doctors visits and more. The didn't have very much and made do with whatever recourses they had available. They were SO very appreciative of any and all donations. We could not speak any Spanish but they will welcomed us with opened arms! The adult day program was my favorite. The people that go there so not have a lot of money but with their happy spirts and warm hearts you would never be able to tell. Truly life changing and eye opening!

It is coming up on a year since my China Summer trip and I still have dreams of returning and still talk with many of the people I met there, including my Chinese students as often as possible - there is a significant time difference. I made lifelong friends, saw the most amazing shooting stars, and have memories that I wouldn't trade for anything. The trip helped me grow and gain so much independence. I feel like I was able to make as much of an impact on my students as they did on me. I can't wait to go back someday!

Traveling to Ecuador for this service trip was the first time I have traveled out of the country and I could not have been more happy with my experience. The people, the culture, and the general attitude of Ecuador was so welcoming and fun. I would definitely recommend this service trip to pretty much anyone who wants to serve while traveling! Also, if you are not fluent in Spanish, THAT IS OKAY! I knew very little Spanish and did not fell ashamed or unwelcome because of it!

My favorite experience there, was being able to help the local villagers with everything they did. We helped them construct tunnels that would be used to route the water pipes in order for the villagers to get easier access to water. My experience was made better do the plans that were set up by United Planet. They made everything easier and fun. My favorite thing that I did in Ecuador was interact with the local kids.