Awesome trip

The PMGY trip was nothing like I've ever done, it was my first time travelling alone and my first time in Sri Lanka and being with the program definitely was a memorable experience. Departure support and preparation for the trip was convenient and informative with the web seminars and sharing profiles on facebook so we could easily socialise. When I arrived the PMGY coordinators were very welcoming and helpful. The accommodation was well maintained by Sister and a very friendly environment. I would've liked more freedom with exercise activities as being in the house in between projects and at night and especially those just doing one project can get quite boring just sitting around. There were activities such as watching movies and playing card games available as well although which were great. Another useful recommendation would be to have just one computer or laptop lying around for volunteer use as many of us needed to check emails or skype family or send through university applications or like me, pay for the extra weekend trip which was difficult to do through the phone. I loved meeting new people, it was difficult to mix with those already there though I made some great bonds and made two very close friends! I worked on the elephant project, teaching kids English and did a day pass of turtle conservation. It was great that they allowed me to do the afternoon project on top of the initially booked elephant project as I would rather fulfil the experience and be busy all day. The projects were shorter than expected and to be truthful, the elephant project was a little beneath what I had expected. We cleaned the resting area, walked with the elephant and scrubbed the elephant clean in the lake. I was looking forward to the veterinary check up but that wasn't included and the project can get quite mundane for two weeks, although I understand with such great creatures it is difficult for young volunteers to contribute and interact too much. The teaching project was my favourite, it definitely felt like I was making an impact on the children and their education. I love that it was driven and dependent on the volunteers to organise and teach the class. It was heartbreaking to say goodbye to the children and I miss them all very much! The turtle experience was also amazing. We cut up fish, fed them, washed them and cleaned their water tanks. It was more hands on than elephants, more participation and chores to do which was great! The drive there was short and you could easily see the benefit the conservation program was doing for turtle populations and species. I did two weeks of the program and then did two weeks of travelling Sri Lanka which I think was a really good mix of volunteering and being able to see Sri Lanka. My advice to new volunteers would to definitely get in touch with ex-volunteers or even set up a list where ex-volunteers could put down their name to help out others on facebook as this is the most valuable source of advice you could get. Although the handbook was very detailed and helpful, there were a few tips, opinions and advice I would have liked to have known before I started for example what each project was like on a personal level, things to pack, things you don't need etc. The program is perfect for first-time travellers especially younger people in their 17, 18 and 19s. Overall, the experience was an incredible and unforgettable experience that I will treasure for life. The result of volunteering for worthwhile causes broadened my understanding of a different culture and lifestyle to my own and gives you a new perspective and appreciation of different worlds. Thank you so much for the opportunity!