A Life Changing Volunteer Experience

The impact volunteering in Vietnam has had in my life is profound. I signed up for my trip 6 months before taking off, spending weeks researching for an organization with a strong reputation. I found that through IVHQ International. They had several programs available, but I ultimately chose Vietnam as my Grandfather served as a Green Beret during the war and the things he experienced wounded him badly. I knew this country would have an impact on me, but I vastly underestimated just how much.

First: the support we received before, during, and after were of the highest quality. Questions were answered promptly, the Facebook pages also gave us a community to connect prior to arriving. In country, it was the perfect mix of help and independence. The Green Lion team was nothing short of phenomenal in their care of us. The accommodations and the food (my goodness was the food amazing!) were high quality.

Second: the placement. I was a medical volunteer and immediately felt at home in the hospital. It was an eye opening experience and I connected with patients at the level I need to be a successful doctor, with a language barrier in place even. I learned more than I could have ever dreamed when I first booked the trip.

Finally, the people. I went at a time the accommodations were filled with people. I formed so many wonderful friendships, even being an introverted person. I met people from all over the world, learned about their homes, their dreams, and know if I ever visited, they would gladly meet up.

If you are on the fence: simply do it. Sign up. Fundraise through the website IVHQ provides. You will not regret joining this organization in the slightest.