Experience of a lifetime

This was my first time traveling outside of the country. My parents and my self were scared but I wanted to go so bad.
Loop abroad sent weekly emails about things to pack and FAQ and even the travel alerts.
My flight took off from Salt Lake City Utah to jfk airport on Friday july 11th. We were scheduled to leave jfk on Saturday morning.
We got on the flight to Thailand and I was so scared but I felt so safe. They made sure we were all comfortable and ready for the long flight.
We landed in Hong Kong after 16 hours of being in the air and then had a little lay over. Then we flew into chiang Mai Thailand.
They let our parents know we were there safe. The next 2 weeks were all about learning, and exploring.
We stayed at the elephant nature park for 1 week which was the coolest experience ever. We were literally sleeping with the elephants outside our door. We learned a lot about elephants. How many people get to say they have bathed with an elephant in the wild? Not many. But I did. We splashed with them and bathed them for hours. After our week there we went and stayed at a hostel that loop abroad rents out just for their students. We were there for 1 week and worked in a animal shelter. We neutered 2 dogs and 2 cats. We actually did it. It was amazing. We learned how to give vaccines and take blood and remove ticks.
During our free time they took us to the night markets, and gave us each a cell phone to communicate. If we did not come back on time or disrespect the rules we would get that privilege taken away. They wanted to make sure we were always safe.
They took us to cool restaurants and a butter fly sanctuary and even tiger kingdom where we layed and played with tigers.
Then the day came. Time to leave. I was ready to go home but I knew I was going to miss Thailand.
Overall, this trip was so worth it. I can't express how grateful I am to loop abroad not only for the amazing experience but also feeling so entirely safe and protected the entire time.
If you're looking for a trip or a volunteer program for you or your child I highly recommend them. They have all sorts of programs not only vet ones. Check out their wesbite. Www.loopabroad.com
I plan to go back with loop abroad.