The Adventure of a Lifetime

I'm afraid of heights. Deathly afraid. I can't dive and I hate being anything but right side up. So, logically, I went bungy jumping. I did the highest jump in New Zealand, the 134 meter Nevis bungy- that's an 8 1/2 second freefall, folks- and I didn't hesitate for a second.
Of course, the surge of adrenaline and the celebratory post-bungy Fergburger really made that particular experience memorable, but the jump really marked a turning point in my entire ISV experience. The pride I felt in myself not only encompassed the fact that I had overcome some of my greatest fears, but it also made me realize that I had more to be proud of: the volunteer work that my fellow students and I had done in Northland. My group planted 11 1/2 thousand manuka plants in the span of two weeks, shattering the previous record of 9 1/2 thousand. I am proud because the work we did will have a definite positive impact on the local environment; the manuka we planted will help purify the waterways, and it's pioneering property will help ensure the continuation of the practice of sustainable forestry. The work we did may also have a noted social impact, and will one day help to create jobs in a notably poor part of the country.
As my pride grew, so did my appreciation of those with whom I had worked grow. During my entire experience with ISV, I found the staff to be extremely obliging, helpful, and understanding. They answered all of my questions by email or phone. Additionally, the payment method was simple, and the information provided by ISV was very clear. The project leaders and adventure tour leader made sure that we were safe and happy, and rally took the time to get to know us. The entire experience was very well organized, and I never felt unsafe.
The grates souvenirs that brought back from New Zealand, however, are the friends that I made. I truly believe that we will be friendsfor life- we are already planning our own trips together- and I left New Zealand grateful that I'd been able to make my own, small, positive impact on the country, and mindful of my personal impact as a tourist on my host country.
My experience with ISV was truly and undeniably incredible. It was worth every penny. My admiration for New Zealand and its culture has grown immensely, and I'm sure that I will return, if not as a visitor, then as a resident.
Kia ora.