You Will Change the World

Going to New Zealand through International Student Volunteers was an experience like no other. I was able to work for two weeks on what I considered to be my own private island (because other than the people in my group, no other mammals were on the island). Each day we worked to improve the habitat for the endangered kiwi bird. We would collect, propagate, and plant native flora. I really felt like I could see my impact since we were able to contribute to every step of reforestation. Although there was a lot of hiking (or tramping as they might say in NZ) there is work that can be done for practically any fitness level. No foreign language skills are required, and I felt super safe throughout my time abroad making this volunteer trip perfect for any first time travelers (although I would recommend it to experienced travelers too because the scenic views are unbeatable!)

Furthermore, after the first two weeks of volunteering ISV offered a tour through New Zealand for the next two weeks. I did things I never would have dreamed of doing anywhere else. Some of my adventures included white water rafting, bungy jumping, Ogo ball riding, and, my personal favorite, black water rafting through glow worm caves!

All in all, I felt like I made a meaningful impact on the world when I traveled to New Zealand through ISV and I would recommend it to anyone who has an itch to travel.