A Beginner’s Guide to Teaching English in Spain Stress-Free

Before You Go

Travel Tips

8 Travel Health Kit Essentials: What You Should Never Leave Behind

Health & Safety Tips

Packing Tips

Should You Take a Gap Year Before Law School? What No One Tells You

10 Reasons To Choose Italy For Study Abroad

Europe

How to

7 Things That are Restricted in Saudi Arabia

The Digital Nomad Packing List: 10 Must-Have Tech for Travelers

General Travel

12 Reasons to Do High School Volunteer Work Abroad

how internships abroad can launch your career

How Internships Abroad Can Launch Your Career

Top Picks

Travel Inspiration

Websites to Find Student Housing in the US

5 Websites to Find Student Housing in the US

What to Expect in Your First Year Teaching English Abroad

Culture Shock Tips

Finding Roommates in the U.S. for Students

Finding Roommates in the U.S. for Students Coming from Abroad

Active Adventures for Mature Travelers

50+ Travel

Holidays

Island Education Experience: Discover the Best Courses to Study in Dominica

Program Selection Tips

Best Graduation Gifts for College Students Who Want to Travel

10 Best Graduation Gifts for College Students

Summer Programs That Will Impress Colleges

5 Summer Programs That Will Impress Colleges

The Pros & Cons of Earning an MBA Abroad

Essential Packing Tips for Family Volunteering Abroad

How to Get TEFL Certified This Year

How to Make the Most of Your English Teacher Salary in France

How to Combat Burnout During Your Internship

How to Intern Abroad on a Budget

How to Teach English in Switzerland

10 Valuable Tips for Volunteering in Africa

<h3>What inspired you to go abroad?</h3>
<p>I was inspired to volunteer because I wanted to experience a different culture while contributing to a meaningful community project. I have always believed that volunteering allows you to learn from people’s real-life experiences while also sharing your own skills and time.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The opportunity to work with women in Kisumu who are building their livelihoods through tailoring and entrepreneurship was particularly inspiring. I was excited to be part of a program that focuses on empowerment, learning, and community support while also allowing me to understand daily life in Kenya.&nbsp;</p>
<p>It was not just about traveling, but about making a positive impact and building connections with people from different backgrounds.</p>
<h3>Why did you choose <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/kar-genocenter-for-hope-kenya rel="" target="_self" class="link">Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya</a>?</h3>
<p>I chose Kar Geno - Center for Hope because of its strong focus on women’s empowerment and community development. The Women’s Interest Project in Kisumu stood out to me because it equips women with practical tailoring skills that can help them become financially independent.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I was also drawn to the grassroots nature of the organization, where volunteers work closely with the community and see the real impact of their contribution. It felt like a genuine opportunity to support women who are building better futures for themselves and their families while learning about the local culture and daily life in Kenya.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773298398/images2/interviews/WtPUie8EUjyMXJ5tA1L5cOvPoUuc0jL7ZvikhrLw.jpg" alt="people at the entrance of the Kisumu Municipal Market in Kenya "><div class="caption"><p>Exploring the local market with fellow volunteers—a true taste of community life.</p></div></div>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Kisumu?</h3>
<p>My favorite part about Kisumu was the warmth of the people and the strong sense of community. Everyone was welcoming and eager to share their culture, which made it easy to feel at home. I also enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere of the city and its beautiful surroundings near Lake Victoria.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Visiting local markets, interacting with families in the community, and learning about daily life in the area were memorable experiences. It was inspiring to see how people support one another and work together to create opportunities for the future.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>What made my experience abroad extraordinary was the deep connection with the local community and the opportunity to see the direct impact of the work being done. Working alongside the women in the tailoring project, supporting their training, and seeing their determination to build better futures for their families was truly inspiring.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The experience was not just about volunteering, but about sharing stories, learning from each other, and building genuine relationships. Being immersed in the culture, interacting with the children, and experiencing daily life in Kisumu made the journey meaningful and unforgettable.</p>
<h3>How did local staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The local staff was very supportive and welcoming throughout the entire program. From the beginning, they provided clear information about the project and helped me understand the daily activities and how I could best support the women in their training. They were always available to answer questions, offer guidance, and make sure I felt comfortable and safe in the community.</p>
<p>Their encouragement and friendliness made it easy to integrate into the program and connect with the women and other community members. It truly felt like being part of a team working toward a shared goal.</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>One thing I wish I had done differently during my time abroad was to stay longer in the program. The experience was very meaningful, and the more time I spent with the women and the community, the more I understood their stories, challenges, and strengths.&nbsp;</p>
<p>With a longer stay, I feel I could have contributed even more and built deeper relationships with the people involved in the project. The experience taught me that community work and cultural learning take time, and the longer you stay, the more rewarding and impactful the experience becomes.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773298398/images2/interviews/387NSn0CTLRY6IAShpqJsFrfKjhe34gDzxDcgxHX.jpg" alt="a group of people socializing around a table outdoor"><div class="caption"><p>Sunset over Lake Victoria, live music in the air, and great company — unforgettable moments at Dunga Hill Camp.</p></div></div>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>A typical day started in the morning with breakfast and preparation for activities at the women’s training center. During the day, I helped the women with their tailoring training by cutting materials, assisting with measurements, and supporting them at their workstations.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Some women came with their children, so I also helped keep the children entertained while their mothers focused on learning. There were also moments to talk with the women, learn about their experiences, and understand the impact of the program.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In the evenings, the environment was relaxed, giving time to reflect on the day, interact with community members, or explore the local surroundings.</p>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>During my free time, I enjoyed exploring the local community and learning more about the culture and daily life in Kisumu. Visiting local markets, walking around the neighborhoods, and spending time near Lake Victoria were some of my favorite activities. I also enjoyed interacting with community members, sharing stories, and trying local food.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Sometimes I would spend quiet time reflecting on the day’s experiences or planning visits to nearby attractions. These moments allowed me to better understand the community and appreciate the beauty and simplicity of life in the area.</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>I stayed in comfortable volunteer accommodation provided by the organization. The place had running water, a warm shower, reliable internet, and access to a modern kitchen where volunteers could also prepare their own meals if they wished.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The accommodation was clean, safe, and conveniently located close to the community activities. What I liked most was the welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. It was a good balance between comfort and experiencing local life, and it provided a peaceful space to rest, reflect on the day’s activities, and connect with other volunteers.</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>One thing every future participant should know is that this program is very community-focused and works closely with local women and families. Being open-minded, flexible, and respectful of the local culture will make the experience much more meaningful.&nbsp;</p>
<p>It is not just about volunteering but about building relationships, learning from the community, and sharing everyday moments with the people involved in the project. If you come with a positive attitude and willingness to learn, you will find the experience both rewarding and inspiring.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/kar-genocenter-for-hope-kenya/programs/volunteer-to-empower-hiv-affected-women-in-tailoring-kisumu-198130 rel="" target="_self" class="link">Volunteer to Empower HIV-Affected Women in Tailoring</a> to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Yes, I would definitely recommend this program and organization to others. Kar Geno – Center for Hope provides a meaningful opportunity to engage directly with the community and support women working toward economic independence.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The program is well organized, the staff is welcoming and supportive, and the work allows volunteers to see the real impact of their contribution. It is also a great cultural experience where you learn about local life while making genuine connections with people.&nbsp;</p>
<p>For anyone interested in women’s empowerment, community development, and cultural exchange, this program is a very rewarding experience.</p>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?</h3>
<p>The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. It allows you to step outside of your usual environment and see the world from a new point of view.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Traveling also helps build empathy and appreciation for communities that live differently from your own. Through experiences like volunteering, you not only learn about local traditions and challenges but also develop personal growth, adaptability, and meaningful connections with people from around the world.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773298399/images2/interviews/ZubpbSRubGZ5KG30ofEvkzsGOIW7p5hqUY0lvF5C.jpg" alt="a group of women playing with something on the ground outdoors"><div class="caption"><p>Trying out a traditional local game—laughter, dust, and great memories.</p></div></div>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>Now that I am back home, my time abroad continues to influence how I see the world and the role communities play in supporting one another.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The experience taught me the value of resilience, cooperation, and empowerment, especially seeing how the women in the program were determined to improve their lives through learning new skills. It also gave me a deeper appreciation for cultural exchange and the importance of grassroots initiatives that create real change.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The experience has inspired me to stay engaged in community-focused work and to continue supporting projects that empower people and strengthen communities.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel means more than simply visiting new places; it is about connecting with people, understanding their culture, and learning from their everyday lives. It involves being present in the community, respecting local traditions, and contributing in a positive way.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Through volunteering and cultural exchange, meaningful travel allows you to build genuine relationships and gain a deeper appreciation of the challenges and strengths of different communities.&nbsp;</p>
<p>It becomes a shared experience where both visitors and locals learn from one another and grow together.</p>


Josephine Populin 

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Josephine Populin  who participated in Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya  program.

Josephine Populin  | Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya 

Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya  Alumni Interview with Josephine Populin 

<h3>What inspired you to go abroad?</h3>
<p>What inspired me to go abroad was the opportunity to gain global exposure and step outside of my comfort zone. I wanted to experience a different culture, meet people from diverse backgrounds, and challenge myself in a new environment. Studying abroad allowed me to learn not only academically but also personally by adapting to unfamiliar situations and developing independence.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I believed that international exposure helped broaden perspectives, improve problem-solving skills, and build confidence. It also gave me the chance to explore new ideas, educational approaches, and career opportunities that were not always available in my home country.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Overall, the idea of living and learning abroad inspired me because I believed it would help me grow both professionally and personally.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773294872/images2/interviews/XeNtNnl1yAVHTASjbVWS1KAFGSfBpGYtIzu5wGF3.jpg" alt="a man holding grapes"><div class="caption"><p>Grape picking was a really fun and unique experience. It was my first time visiting a vineyard and actually picking fresh grapes directly from the vines. The atmosphere was very relaxing, and it was great doing it together with the other interns while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.</p></div></div>
<h3>Why did you choose the <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/the-intern-group/programs/digital-nomad-program-187658 rel="" target="_self" class="link">Digital Nomad Program Through The Intern Group</a>?</h3>
<p>I chose this program because it seemed reliable and well-organized, and it offered opportunities that matched what I was looking for in an international experience. I wanted a program that would support students while also allowing us to explore and learn independently.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The positive feedback I found about <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/the-intern-group rel="" target="_self" class="link">the organization</a> and the benefits it provided made me feel confident that it would be a great fit for me. It seemed like a program that genuinely focuses on helping participants grow, experience a new culture, and make the most of their time abroad.</p>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Japan?</h3>
<p>My favorite part about my host country was experiencing Japanese culture in everyday life. I have always been interested in Japan, so being able to see it firsthand was really special. I enjoyed the food, the cleanliness of the cities, and the peaceful atmosphere in many places.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I also appreciated how respectful and organized everything felt, from public transportation to daily interactions with people. Exploring different areas, trying new foods, and observing cultural traditions made the experience memorable and gave me a deeper appreciation for the country and its way of life.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>What made my experience abroad extraordinary was the opportunity to connect with new people from different backgrounds and cultures. Meeting people from around the world helped me see different perspectives and learn about traditions, lifestyles, and ideas that were very different from my own.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Through conversations, shared activities, and exploring new places together, I built meaningful friendships that made the experience much more memorable. Those connections made the trip feel more personal and rewarding, and they are something I will continue to value even after the program ended!</p>
<h3>How did local staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The local staff supported us throughout the program by always being approachable, organized, and helpful whenever we needed assistance! They acted as great guides, helping us explore different places while also explaining the culture and local traditions.&nbsp;</p>
<p>They regularly checked in with us to make sure everything was going well and were always available if we had questions or concerns. Their support made it much easier to adjust to a new environment and allowed us to focus on enjoying the experience and learning as much as possible during the program.</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>One thing I wish I had done differently during my time abroad was spending even more time exploring the city and nearby areas. I had a remote and fairly flexible internship schedule, so I had opportunities to go out and see more places.&nbsp;</p>
<p>While I did explore and try new things, I feel like I could have taken even greater advantage of that flexibility to visit more neighborhoods, discover hidden spots, and experience more of the local culture.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Looking back, I would have planned a few more day trips or spontaneous outings to make the most of the time I had there.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>A typical day abroad usually starts a bit later in the morning, around 11 a.m. I would wake up, get ready, and head out to explore or grab lunch at a new place nearby. I enjoyed trying different restaurants and cafés, which helped me experience more of the local culture. Sometimes I had plans to meet friends or visit a new area of the city.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In the evening, I would often go out for dinner somewhere new and then return to my apartment. Later in the day, I would spend some time working on my remote internship, usually for about one or two hours, before relaxing and planning what to explore next.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773294872/images2/interviews/3v7g2mF4pUVwjjyNJwlEKZadb6VvZjfrKhLuKu7W.png" alt="Low angle view of a tall red communications tower"><div class="caption"><p>Visiting the iconic Tokyo Tower🗼was an amazing experience. Seeing it up close made me realize how impressive the structure really is, and it’s one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city.</p></div></div>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>During my free time abroad, I mostly enjoyed exploring Japan since it had always been one of my dream destinations. I loved walking around different neighborhoods, discovering new restaurants, and trying a variety of local foods. Even simple things like visiting convenience stores, parks, or local streets felt exciting because everything was new to me.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I also enjoyed seeing how daily life worked there and experiencing the culture firsthand. Being able to explore the country at my own pace made the experience even more special and memorable for me.</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>I stayed in an all-inclusive apartment that had shared spaces such as a common living area, kitchen, and bathrooms, while each person had their own private bedroom with air conditioning.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I really liked this setup because it offered a good balance of privacy and social interaction. I could relax in my own room when I needed personal space, but I could also spend time in the common areas and talk with others staying there.&nbsp;</p>
<p>It made the experience feel more comfortable and welcoming, and it was a great way to meet new people while still having a place to unwind!</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>One thing every future participant should know before starting the program is to take full advantage of all the opportunities and facilities provided. The program offers a lot of support, resources, and chances to explore, so it’s important to stay open to new experiences and make the most of your time there.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Balancing your internship responsibilities with exploring the city and meeting new people can make the experience much more rewarding. The more effort you put into participating and trying new things, the more memorable and valuable the program will be!</p>
<h3>Would you recommend the Digital Nomad Program to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Yes, I would definitely recommend this program to others. The experience was very well organized, and the staff was supportive and helpful throughout the entire program. They made it easier to adjust to a new environment and ensured that participants felt comfortable and supported.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The program also provided a great balance between professional experience through the internship and the opportunity to explore a new country and culture.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Overall, it was a very enriching experience that allowed me to grow personally while also gaining valuable international exposure.</p>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?</h3>
<p>For me personally, the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is stepping out of my comfort zone and learning how to adapt to a completely different environment.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Being in a new country pushes you to become more independent and open-minded. You learn how people from different cultures live, communicate, and approach everyday life. It also teaches you problem-solving and flexibility because you often have to navigate unfamiliar situations.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Overall, traveling abroad helps you grow both personally and professionally while giving you a broader perspective on the world!</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1773294873/images2/interviews/m8DbapVyq8g8a1fhoaI9kYnIudWYwSpBqHZwXWrs.jpg" alt="two people engaged in an activity, with one smiling toward the camera while holding a small, colorful object"><div class="caption"><p>Learning how to make traditional Japanese sweets was such a fun cultural experience. It was interesting to see the level of detail and care that goes into making them. I really enjoyed the hands-on activity and getting to try something new while learning more about Japanese food culture.</p></div></div>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>My time abroad has definitely had a big impact on me. It helped improve my communication skills because I interacted with people from many different backgrounds and cultures. I also feel more confident now when facing new situations or challenges.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Living in another country taught me how to adapt quickly and be more independent. The experience also broadened my perspective and made me more curious about exploring other cultures and opportunities in the future. So, I would say it was a very meaningful experience that contributed a lot to my personal growth.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel to me means truly experiencing the culture of the place I visit rather than just seeing tourist attractions. It involves respecting local traditions, trying new foods, learning about the history, and interacting with people who live there.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I think travel becomes meaningful when you build connections, gain new perspectives, and learn something valuable from the experience. It’s about being open-minded, appreciating the differences between cultures, and returning home with a deeper understanding of the world and the people in it.<br></p>


Soham Kamble

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Soham Kamble who participated in The Intern Group program.

Soham Kamble | The Intern Group Alumni Interview

The Intern Group Alumni Interview with Soham Kamble

Arero Sora 

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Arero Sora  who participated in Go Volunteer Africa program.

Arero Sora  | Go Volunteer Africa Alumni Interview

Go Volunteer Africa Alumni Interview with Arero Sora 

Home

Articles

Read GoAbroad Before You Go articles. Find travel tips and advice to help you pick a program, choose a location, and get your adventure abroad started now!

Before You Go Articles

Read Articles by Travel Type

Recent Interviews