Not a Vacation, but a True Adventure

My GIVE trip to Nepal the summer of 2018 was my first time leaving the United States. I was a senior in college and had an overwhelming desire to travel but didn't know where to start. I was lucky to come across a flyer which directed me to a presentation that would steer my life in a more exciting, fulfilling, and positive direction. The presentation hooked me by promising hands-on volunteer work, a sense of community, and immersion into a foreign culture, but the actual experience far exceeded anything that could be described.

When I arrived to the airport in Nepal I was greeted warmly by our guide, Amy. She was quick to ask about who I was and genuinely friendly and caring. Getting on the bus and taking that first ride through Kathmandu was surreal. My eyes were glued to the window, absorbing every detail of the dusty streets sprawling with unfamiliar life. Once we arrived to the Buddha Stupa, Amy let us explore the square in our own groups where we were able to become friends with each other very quickly. From then on, it felt like I had known my fellow volunteers for months and our friendships continued to grow with each new experience.

There was not a single minute of the entire two-week trip that I felt bored. I could truly disconnect from my life in the U.S. and live in the present moment with life happening right in front of me without the distractions of electronics or any everyday obligations we all have, be it school, work, bills, etc. The only things I had to focus on where being immersed in a completely new world, my mission to help a local community rebuild, creating strong connections with volunteers and locals, and break through my comfort zone every day.

I have another GIVE trip planned for the next upcoming summer to Tanzania. There's no better way to travel, have a positive impact on the world, and make lifelong friends than journeying with GIVE. This trip will challenge you, inspire you, and alter your outlook on life for the better in ways you didn't know were possible. I would encourage everyone I know and anyone who is seeking a fulfilling adventure to take the risk, and to eventually be able to look back on their experience with joy and achievement.