Travel Scholarships & Financial Resources

My experience volunteering in Tanzania with IVHQ has been absolutely incredible and has exceeded my expectations in many ways. From the very beginning, everything was very well organized, which made the whole experience much easier and more enjoyable. The staff were always available to help, answer our questions, and make sure that we felt comfortable and supported throughout our stay. Their organization and dedication made a big difference and allowed us to focus on the most important part of the experience: helping and connecting with the local community. One of the things I enjoyed the most was meeting so many amazing people. Everyone we met was incredibly welcoming, kind, and friendly, and they made us feel at home from the moment we arrived. Being able to interact with local people and learn about their culture, traditions, and daily lives was one of the most valuable parts of the trip. It was a great opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone, experience a completely different environment, and see things from a new perspective. During our volunteering experience, we were able to do a lot of meaningful work. It was very rewarding to see that our time, effort, and energy could contribute in a positive way. Even though some tasks were challenging, they were always worthwhile because we could see the importance of what we were doing. Working together with other volunteers also made the experience even better. We supported each other, shared responsibilities, and created great memories along the way. Another aspect that made this experience so special was the feeling of being part of something bigger than ourselves. Volunteering gave me the opportunity not only to help others but also to learn from them. I realized that even small actions can make a difference, and that sometimes the most important thing we can offer is our time, enthusiasm, and willingness to help. The experience also taught me to appreciate things that I sometimes take for granted in everyday life. Overall, my time volunteering in Tanzania with IVHQ has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had. I am very grateful for the opportunity to meet incredible people, experience a new culture, and take part in work that felt meaningful and impactful. I have learned a lot, grown as a person, and created memories that I will never forget. I would definitely recommend this experience to anyone who is looking for an opportunity to make a difference while also challenging themselves, discovering a new place, and creating genuine connections with people from different backgrounds. I am leaving Tanzania with a very full heart, a greater appreciation for the world around me, and many unforgettable memories that I will carry with me for a long time.

Truly a once-in-a- lifetime opportunity to study abroad in both Southern Patagonia and Antarctica. When else will you be able to travel to Antarctica through the lens of being an exchange student? You truly are integrated into the Spanish-speaking community in Ushuaia with both your host families and your program cohort, and your Spanish-speaking ability increases tenfold. The program director, Maria, is very supportive and wants all of her students to succeed, and will support you through any hardships you may face. The only downside was pre-program departure- the steps are very unclear regarding the need for a Visa, and getting on my flight, I had to purchase another flight outside of the program, leaving Argentina in 90 days (just to prove that I wouldn't overstay the tourist period, not that I would actually be taking this flight to leave the country), which the program said should not be necessary but then I still had to do. I then had trouble getting the ticket refunded, but SIT ended up covering the cost of this extra flight for the headache of it all. Also, homestay families are not created equal- some are definitely more accommodating than others, but Maria and the program staff are all there to help you through any obstacles, and if there is a problem, they are more than willing to step in to resolve it. Overall, even despite the few hiccups, this program is an experience that I will never forget and am so lucky to have had. The nature and hiking around Ushuaia are unmatched, the community is very welcoming, and the educational resources/research in the area are exceptional.