Is Volunteering Abroad All Work and No Play?

Dear Future Global Leadership Adventures Student:

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to travel and serve abroad on a summer volunteer program, there’s no better source than someone who’s actually done it. So, as a proud GLA alum, I’d like to share my story in a few words, and in a video that hopefully transports you to my destination: Guatemala.

On getting there: During my summer I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Guatemala for a fourteen day service trip. I couldn’t have picked a better trip to go on. From the very moment I arrived at Guatemala City I felt welcomed, the trip advisors made us feel right at home, and the whole group just clicked immediately.

Some of the highlights: Every moment was a memory I will treasure forever, from singing  in the van, making a flash mob at breakfast, and eating copious amounts of chocolate, to meeting the most incredible group of Guatemalan children, learning bits of sign language, and learning about Guatemala’s history from a war veteran.

One thing you should know: If there is one thing people should know about this trip it’s that you will learn so much not only about a new culture or friendships but about you, you will discover so much more about yourself , which will inspire you to find your own unique way to make the world a better place.

Without further ado, here’s the video I edited together from my trip that captures some of things words just can’t. Enjoy!

Sincerely, Vita Benitez-Thomas

PS: To check out videos by other Student Ambassadors from destinations around the world, click here:  http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9D9339FEC8A56509. No two programs or experiences are ever exactly the same, and that’s something to celebrate.