International Volunteering: Hints, Resources, Organizations
By Shefali B. Oza '04
October 10, 2002
Hints
- Talking with People
- Interacting with locals made all the difference in my experience
- Taxi drivers, store owners, security guards...
- Great way to learn language and interact with Peruvians
- Learned much more about Peruvian life and politics than could have any other way
- Got to meet very different and incredible people from varied backgrounds
- Volunteering Internationally
- Best to know some of the language before-hand (I did not)
- Make the most of your time - there are an incredible number of hidden opportunities
- Do NOT impose your culture on others - be open-minded about differences
- Talk to as many of the locals as you can about anything and everything!
- Travel the country - not just tourist locations
- What We Can Do
- Volunteer abroad through programs, fellowships, or personal trips
- Understand the culture before designing projects meant for aid
- Raise awareness of the vast differences between the First and Third worlds
- Think of long-term sustainable projects - but be open to small projects as well
- Use all resources available to you!
Resources
- Programs:
- Web-Sites (internship and volunteer program searches):
International Aid Organizations
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