Good experience

WorldTeach support was amazing from pre-departure to the last work day in May. This made living in Chittagong far easier and more comfortable than expected. Having all volunteers at the same school (vs spread out over the country) provided a great social network, and we were lucky to have a great field director to support us and help sort out problems between the students, staff and university. As a new university, AUW is not the calmest place to work. Frequent administration changes and learning disruptions were an upset to everyone, but the hard working, keen students never failed to show their genuine appreciation and gratefulness for the opportunity to gain a university education. They were truly inspiring and motivated us to do our best at work. Your work life may end up consuming you, but that's exactly what you're there to do. You will miss a lot of comforts from home, and there will be horrible days when it feels like everything in Chittagong is out to get you!!! But it all ends as soon as you feel your routine developing, and you'll return with great stories. Fully celebrate the country's food, culture and festivities. Try to communicate in Bangla - the language classes at the beginning of the school year will come in handy! Most of the students do speak English and Bangla, and are willing to help/translate in any situation.

The current university campus is comprised of retrofitted apartment buildings, and feels quite cramped. Provided apartments were spacious - a nice refuge and contrast to the streets outside. There really isn't anywhere to go and hang out, apart from a few restaurants, but the AUW library is quite well stocked with books and DVDs. You'll be constantly stared at and photographed. Dhaka, one of the world's most densely populated cities, serves as a great getaway. There's a comfortable, safe university guesthouse there to stay at for free.

I didn't do much research before leaving. I thought it would be more unsafe than it was, and I had a great experience. I don't want to return to Bangladesh, but I'm glad I stuck it out!