For You

Whilst I have studied abroad in the past (and I volunteer regularly in the UK), I've never volunteered abroad - but it's something that I'd very much like to do at some point. It's not an option at the moment due to my family commitments but it's definitely something I plan on doing in the future, and here are the reasons why: To give something back and make a difference It would be nice to use some of my skills to help out others, particularly in areas where those skills might be in short supply or where there is no funding available to pay for them. I have really enjoyed all the volunteering I've done so far - it's great to be able to take some time out and do something for other people rather than for myself... there is definitely a 'feel-good factor' to volunteering! [caption id=attachment_2259 align=aligncenter width=528] Many places in the world don't even have sufficient funds to maintain what we would consider basic services...[/caption] To learn about a different country The best way of learning about a country is to live there... and what better way of doing it than by helping out the local population at the same time? I would love to go and volunteer somewhere in Latin America so I could use my Spanish language skills at the same time, but I am also interested in Arabic language and culture too... [caption id=attachment_3655 align=aligncenter width=535] As well as Hispanic culture I am also fascinated by Arabic culture and would love to learn more about it... volunteering would be the perfect way of doing this![/caption] To learn new skills and gain work experience Volunteering abroad would be a great way of picking up some new skills (which may be useful for finding employment on your return) - whether that is learning a new language, learning about construction, education, healthcare, etc. So pick your volunteering opportunity carefully - think about both what you can offer others but also about what you can gain from the experience. [caption id=attachment_2695 align=aligncenter width=835] Learning languages is great fun![/caption] To meet new people Volunteering is a great opportunity to make new friends - many overseas volunteering projects will have all different nationalities working on them, giving you the chance to meet people from all over the globe and from all different backgrounds... I have met lots of new people just from volunteering in my local area - people I probably would not have met otherwise - it's definitely broadened my friendship circle. [caption id=attachment_3619 align=aligncenter width=837] You meet so many people whilst studying and volunteering abroad![/caption] To have fun! Volunteering abroad is a good opportunity to have some fun whilst helping others - in your time off, you can do some travelling and experience what the local area has to offer.... I have a few friends who have volunteered abroad and they have all got so much out of it, which has encouraged me to give it some serious consideration for the future. There are so many opportunities out there to make a difference to the lives of others... Have you ever volunteer abroad and, if so, what do you think you got out of it? If you haven't, is it something you'd be interested in doing at some point? Let me know in the comments below... Happy Volunteering! Kate