Amazing first overseas volunteer experience

Ratings
Overall
5
Impact: 4
Support: 5
Fun: 4
Value: 5
Safety: 5
Review

Wow, what an experience volunteering with Trek to Teach. I ended up finding the organization after deciding that I really needed to take a break from work and life in general here in the USA and I was very glad that I did. I arrived in Nepal nervous and without confidence that everything was going to go really smoothly and wow was I wrong. The Nepali TTT team was there to greet me with smiles and truly made the whole experience of coming into Nepal a breeze by both taking care of all accommodations and making me feel comfortable and at home. It was a great first impression and I would say that the team kept their great hospitality intact throughout.
One of the best things about this organization is that they try really hard to prepare you for teaching and the cultural shock you will receive when you get there. Having said that, I don't think anything could have prepared me for my first time teaching English in a foreign country. It took some time to get used to but I learned to really enjoy being with the kids and watching them learn even the most simple phrases or to even see the smallest bit of improvement. Being there at the school and immersing yourself in Nepali culture was truly mind opening and really gives you a different perspective on everything you have at your disposal in modern society. I felt a deep sense of appreciation too, that people in the village seemed to really be happy that I was there trying to help. I think any little bit of help they can get there, goes a long way for the people in the village. Most importantly, the TTT team really seems like the genuinely care about the wellbeing of the people there, something I was really happy to see. Lastly, being surrounded by the Himalayan mountains was really one of the most magical experiences of my life. To wake up and see the pointed peak of the "Fishtail" in the Annapurna range is something I will never forget. You are literally stuck in awe when you get a good mountain view. I also had the chance to do a lot of hiking and even reached Annapurna Base Camp during some free time from the school.
All in all, it was a tremendous experience and something I will carry with for the rest of my life. Thank you Trek to Teach for such a fulfilling experience!!!

Would you recommend this program?
Yes, I would
Year Completed
2016