Volunteer in Vietnam

I feel like I gained a new perspective on how other people from a different culture live and their customs. I think I have grown as a person and my confidence has definitely improved. My advice would be to go for it, you never know whether you will like it unless you try. It will be a massive achievement when you've completed it. You will have made a difference to others lives and your confidence in yourself will grow so much because you pushed yourself out of your comfort zone.

I was looking for a way to be able to push myself out of my comfort zone and challenge myself - I found that the IVHQ program was the most fulfilling and rewarding way to do this. I arrived at the program by myself, and left with so many new friends from around the world. Whilst initially daunting, the local team were very welcoming and ensured that all new participants felt comfortable within their surroundings. For those who are curious/hesitant about joining the program, I felt the exact same way and I am so grateful that I took the leap. As this was my first solo travel experience, I was quite nervous about meeting people and the potential feeling of loneliness, however the IVHQ volunteer abroad program ensures that you will make friends, both with other volunteers and locals!

Being hesitant or scared at the beginning is completely normal. Feeling overwhelmed on the first day is inevitable. However, once you meet other volunteers from around the world who share your motivations, and once you discover a new culture and see the impact you're capable of having on someone else's life, your perspective will completely alter. I loved every second of my trip, I made lifelong friendships, and will definitely do it again. What a nice way to add purpose to your traveling, and to discover and learn at the same time.

I feel I have made life long friendships but have also learnt how to immerse myself in a different culture even if it seems frightening. It is natural to be nervous but it is so worth it and you can only experience it by going.

I feel like I gained a sense of purpose through this experience, as I was able to contribute to aiding kids wirh special needs along with the nurses, as I was able to provide translations between the nurse and other volunteers. Seeing the children enjoy play time also made me feel like I had been able to make an impact on their lives and provide comfort.

During my experience I have gained a better understanding of what it is like living in a different country. I have enjoyed learning about the different culture of Vietnam. Doing the programme is a great way to meet new people and a good baseline to explore a country. The people you meet whilst doing the programme have all sort of different backgrounds and experience. I would say to anyone thinking about joining a program to do it. It opens your mind up to many different possibilities that you didnt know existed. It is more than just a holiday it's a full life experience. An experience that you wont get by just travelling. The programme makes you emerce yourself in a culture plus you meet some pretty amazing people along the way.