The Time of My Life

The Villa Maria programme has three distinct sections to the trip, Spanish lessons in Quito, volunteering in Peru and exploring South America. When starting the trip I was quite shy I wont lie, but I promised myself that I would throw myself into it from the outset.

As a team we completely clicked, we had a large group of 9, boys and girls. We were accepting university places while we were away, as well as sorting accommodation but we supported each other throughout the whole trip and still occasionally chat now 2 years later on! I made some of the closest friendships while travelling and we crossed sadness, stress, and the greatest joy I could have ever experienced! I miss them everyday!

Some of the situations I found myself in while travelling I didn’t expect I ever would in my life. From climbing one of the highest mountains in Bolivia, to swimming with wild dolphins, creating JESS across the salt flats posed a problems when it came to the S, and weirdly pushing a bus out of mud.

You celebrate the littlest thing and learn a lot about yourself, your own values and life at home. Who knew a clean pair of socks could bring so much joy! I cannot express to you through words the amazing things I saw and learnt. The experience has made me a more mature person, my time management and organization is now impeccable!

If someone were to offer me the experience again tomorrow I would not honestly think twice about it. The chance to gain a wider understanding of the world and the people within is a chance that you cannot miss!