Volunteering with IVHQ has been a rewarding and memorable experience. It has given me a greater understanding of a new culture, community, and way of life, as well as a deeper appreciation for the commitment and compassion that go into animal welfare.

For anyone who is interested in joining the program but feels hesitant to, I would recommend starting with a short-term placement. It gives you a good idea of what to expect without the commitment of being away from home for an extended time, which can feel daunting. The support network, whether it's the local team or your fellow volunteers, is incredible, and there is always someone you can talk to who will help you adjust and settle in.

Before joining, I would also recommend doing as much research as possible. Reach out to past volunteers, read the program description to understand the types of tasks you may be involved in, and learn more about the location. If you like the program overall but feel that certain tasks are outside your comfort zone, you can usually opt out of specific activities, so try not to worry too much about that.

My final piece of advice is to keep an open mind and fully immerse yourself in the experience. It is an incredibly rewarding opportunity, and you'll gain far more from it by embracing every aspect of the journey.

One of the biggest things I gained from this experience was perspective. Working directly with communities in San José showed me that engineering is so much more than technical work, it’s about listening, collaborating, and creating solutions that genuinely improve people’s lives. I also gained confidence, stronger connections with others, and a broader understanding of the world and the responsibilities we have as engineers.

For anyone hesitant about joining an immersion trip such as this, I’d say to take the chance. You don’t need to have all the experience or knowledge going in, you learn so much through the people you meet and the experiences you have. It’s an opportunity to grow personally and professionally while being part of something that creates real impact.

We gained far more than we expected from this experience. Beyond the opportunity to contribute, we built genuine connections with the children and gained a deeper appreciation for the local culture through daily life, school activities, and time with our host family. It was both meaningful and eye-opening.

For anyone hesitant, my advice would be to go for it. The program is very well organized, you’re supported every step of the way, and the experience is incredibly rewarding. You don’t need special skills—just a willingness to participate, be open, and engage. The impact goes both ways, and you’ll come away with memories that stay with you.

I had a truly wonderful experience in Costa Rica! From the very beginning, the staff and people were incredibly kind and welcoming, making me feel right at home.
During my time there, I volunteered in the medical program at a local church , this experience was deeply meaningful and rewarding. Beyond volunteering, I also had the chance to travel around Costa Rica, explore its breathtaking beauty, and fully immerse myself in the vibrant culture.

My only regret is that I didn’t stay longer—I honestly didn’t want to leave! I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to learn Spanish, connect with amazing people, and enjoy an unforgettable adventure.