Seven-week Expedition in Nepal

I couple goals I had for my gap year were to make a difference in the world, and to grow as a person. In just 7 weeks, my Raleigh expedition completely exceeded these expectations! I was fortunate to be part of a 7-week expedition in Nepal and those weeks were some of the most memorable weeks of my life. Initially I was nervous to be away from home for this period of time, but after a few days, I regretted not signing up for the 10-week expedition! Raleigh does an exceptional job of providing a balance of learning, hard work, personal growth and fun for their volunteers.
My community placement was in a 30-house village, and by the end of the 3 weeks I was heartbroken to leave. My host family was so welcoming, the food was delicious and the community was so appreciative of our work. We worked alongside members of the community to ensure they got what they wanted and they were able to teach us so many tips and tricks.
The second half of my expedition consisted of a 17-day trek through the stunning Ruby Valley. The trek was an incredibly rewarding experience. I learned just how strong I am both mentally and physically, all while walking through jaw-dropping scenery.
My top memories from my Raleigh expedition include interacting with the children at the local school in my community, playing volleyball with locals while on trek, and making lifelong connections with fellow volunteers. Overall, my experience with Raleigh completely changed my outlook on life and left me wanting more.