Safe, Neutral, and Negative Locations for LGBTQI Study Abroad

Safe, Neutral, & Negative Locales for LGBT Study Abroad

Diversity

Travel Tips

Health & Safety Tips

How to Identify Anti-Blackness Abroad (and How to React)

General Travel

How to Decolonize Your Education Abroad Experience (and What It Means)

Why You Should Pursue Jewish Service Trips

What is Travel Elitism? 7 Tips to Avoid Being a Travel Snob

What to Know About Your Jewish Gap Year in Spain

Europe

What is the Difference Between Yiddish and Hebrew?

Culture

5 FAQs for Jewish Students Studying in the Middle East

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7 Reasons Why All Jewish Students Should Study Abroad

Travel Inspiration

4 of the Best Programs for Jewish Studies Abroad

Top Picks

Program Selection Tips

12 Ways to Find Community During Religious Holidays Abroad

While Abroad

7 Things to Know Before Studying Abroad as a Jewish Student

Heritage Travel: What it is & How it Can Benefit You

7 Off the Beaten Path Locations for Jewish Students to Study Abroad

6 Best Cities for Jewish Students to Study Abroad

Preguntas Más Frecuentes Para Cuando Su Hijo Se Va Al Extranjero

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It's a Mind Game: Studying Abroad with Anxiety

“Te Vas?!” 7 Tips for Latinos Traveling on Programs Abroad

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6 Ridiculous Questions I Got While Studying Abroad as a Latina

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How to Find Your Community During LGBTQI Travel

How to

Make a Difference: Ways to Celebrate International Youth Day

4 Tips to Succeed as an International Student with Disabilities 

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Culture Shock Stages: Everything You Need to Know & How to Deal

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An Open Letter to Men Who Don’t Think Study Abroad is For Them

<h3>What inspired you to go abroad?</h3>
<p>I've always had a strong desire to explore the world, experience different cultures, and connect with people from all walks of life. After going through a difficult period in my life, I decided it was time to stop waiting and finally take the leap.</p>
<p>What began as a solo trip turned into an incredible 10-month journey across Asia and Europe. Along the way, I visited 13 countries, stepped far outside my comfort zone and had experiences that completely changed my perspective on life.&nbsp;</p>
<p>One of the highlights was <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/cambodia-volunteer-foundation/programs/volunteer-opportunity-in-cambodia-200340 rel="" target="_self" class="link">volunteering in Cambodia</a>, where I had the opportunity to give back, learn from the local community, and create meaningful connections.</p>
<p>For me, going abroad was never just about traveling. It was about growth, new perspectives, and discovering who I am when everything familiar is left behind.</p>
<h3>Why did you choose <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/cambodia-volunteer-foundation rel="" target="_self" class="link">Cambodia Volunteer Foundation</a>?</h3>
<p>When I was traveling through Thailand, I realized that something was missing. Thailand is an amazing country, and I met wonderful people there, but deep down I felt lonely and somehow not fully connected to my journey. I was constantly moving from one place to another, taking in incredible experiences, yet I felt like I wasn't giving anything back.</p>
<p>Cambodia was my next destination, and at first I mainly knew it for Angkor Wat. While researching what else the country had to offer, I came across Cambodia Volunteer Foundation. The organization's mission immediately caught my attention because it offered the opportunity to connect with local people, contribute to the community, and experience Cambodia beyond the typical tourist attractions.</p>
<p>At the same time, I was nervous about applying. English is not my first language, and being hard of hearing sometimes makes communication more challenging. However, I decided not to let those fears hold me back.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Looking back, choosing Cambodia Volunteer Foundation was one of the best decisions of my entire journey. It gave me a sense of purpose, meaningful connections, and memories that will stay with me long after my travels.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1785460549/images2/interviews/O5yAk0zEfQRBPuYJwL0ERHMVwa5GWFMdTamBDLoe.jpg" alt="Celebrating Khmer New Year with one of my students. The festival is one of Cambodia's most important holidays and is filled with traditional games, blessings, music and community celebrations."><div class="caption"><p>Celebrating Khmer New Year with one of my students. The festival is one of Cambodia's most important holidays and is filled with traditional games, blessings, music and community celebrations.</p></div></div>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Cambodia?</h3>
<p>Definitely the people. Cambodia is a beautiful country, but it was the people who made my experience truly special.</p>
<p>What I love about Cambodians is that they are not always the loudest or most expressive people when you first meet them. The real beauty reveals itself when you take the time to get to know them. The longer I stayed, the more I appreciated their kindness, humility, generosity, and sense of community.</p>
<p>Cambodia is a country that has been through a lot, and when you begin to understand even a small part of its history, you gain a whole new level of respect for the people. Despite the challenges their country has faced, they continue to move forward with remarkable strength, optimism, and warmth. There is something incredibly inspiring about that.</p>
<p>My time in Cambodia taught me to slow down, look beyond first impressions, and approach people with more empathy and curiosity. Some of the most meaningful connections I made during my travels happened there, and those memories will stay with me forever.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>What made my experience abroad extraordinary was that it completely changed the way I travel. Before coming to Cambodia, I had spent months backpacking across Asia, moving from one destination to the next. I saw incredible places, but I often felt like I was just passing through.</p>
<p>Volunteering changed that. For the first time, I felt connected to a place in a much deeper way. I wasn't only exploring Cambodia. I was becoming part of a community, building friendships, sharing experiences, and learning from the people around me.</p>
<p>What made it even more special was that I almost didn't apply. As someone who is hard of hearing, I was worried about my English and whether I would fit in. Looking back, I'm so glad I didn't let those doubts stop me.</p>
<p>The most memorable moments weren't the big highlights. They were the small everyday moments: laughing with students, having conversations with local people, sharing meals, and feeling like I truly belonged somewhere. That's what made this experience so special and unforgettable.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1785460756/images2/interviews/BTG03TaJVixj7zTNkXcp9hULwSOxFTsGuiZS0IoS.jpg" alt="Teaching English as a volunteer for the 2nd time. What started as a volunteer project quickly became one of the most meaningful and rewarding experiences of my journey."><div class="caption"><p>Teaching English as a volunteer for the 2nd time. What started as a volunteer project quickly became one of the most meaningful and rewarding experiences of my journey.</p></div></div>
<h3>How did local staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>I felt supported from day one. When I arrived at the airport, Raksmey was already waiting for me with a welcome letter and the biggest smile. After months of solo travel, that simple gesture meant a lot and instantly made me feel welcome.</p>
<p>From the airport, we headed straight to the volunteer house, where a warm meal was waiting for us. It was also the first time I met the other volunteers. We were a group of six people from different backgrounds and countries, which created a really nice atmosphere from the start. Depending on the program, some volunteers continued to Phnom Penh, some stayed in Siem Reap, and I later moved to Battambang.</p>
<p>Before starting our placements, we had an orientation day where we learned about Cambodian culture, local customs, a few Khmer words, and useful tips for daily life. It was a great introduction and helped us settle in quickly.</p>
<p>What I appreciated most was that the support didn't stop after the introduction. Throughout my stay, the team regularly checked in with me, asked how things were going, and made sure I felt comfortable. In Battambang, I was warmly welcomed by everyone and quickly felt less like a visitor and more like part of the community.</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>Honestly, I wish I had trusted myself more from the beginning.</p>
<p>As someone who is hard of hearing and not a native English speaker, I sometimes worried about whether I would fit in or communicate well enough. Looking back, those fears were unnecessary. The people I met were incredibly welcoming, patient, and supportive.</p>
<p>If I could go back, I would spend less time overthinking and more time fully embracing every opportunity from day one. Some of my best memories came from moments that initially felt uncomfortable or uncertain.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Those experiences taught me that growth usually happens just outside of your comfort zone.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>A typical day started early, with classes beginning around 7:00 AM. In the mornings, I mostly taught younger children and preschool students. One thing I really appreciated was that I was never left on my own. A local teacher was always there to support me, answer questions, and help manage the classroom.</p>
<p>The school was an NGO-supported school, and many of the students attended regular public school as well. They came here before or after their regular classes to improve their English and gain additional learning opportunities. For some students, it was also a safe place to spend time while their parents were working. It was inspiring to see how motivated they were to learn.</p>
<p>Classes usually finished around noon, followed by a long lunch break. I would grab some food, explore Battambang, spend time with the local teachers, or prepare lessons for the afternoon.</p>
<p>From around 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, I taught older students. The energy in these classes was different, and I really enjoyed the conversations, questions, and interactions. Lesson planning was also part of the experience, but honestly, it never felt like work. Seeing students grow in confidence and improve their English was incredibly rewarding.</p>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1785460550/images2/interviews/D9JiTlunnhHek442RGaEmcP8K8Gq4he5pBM8mpnU.jpg" alt="Standing in front of Angkor Wat, one of the world's most remarkable cultural and spiritual landmarks. Visiting this iconic temple was an unforgettable highlight of my time in Cambodia."><div class="caption"><p>Standing in front of Angkor Wat, one of the world's most remarkable cultural and spiritual landmarks. Visiting this iconic temple was an unforgettable highlight of my time in Cambodia.</p></div></div>
<p>During my free time, I loved exploring Battambang and experiencing everyday life in Cambodia. I would often walk or cycle around the city, visit local cafés, explore markets, and discover small places that weren't listed in any travel guide.</p>
<p>One of my favorite things was simply spending time with local people. Whether it was sharing a meal, having a conversation after class, or watching the sunset together, those moments often became the highlights of my day.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I also enjoyed visiting temples, trying Cambodian food, and learning more about the country's culture and history. Because I stayed for a while, I wasn't constantly rushing to the next attraction. Instead, I had the chance to slow down, build routines, and appreciate the small everyday moments that make a place feel like home.</p>
<p>Looking back, it was this balance between exploring, connecting with people, and enjoying daily life that made my free time so memorable.</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>I stayed in a small guesthouse run by a local family. It used to operate as a hotel with a few guest rooms, but today it mainly welcomes volunteers. From the moment I arrived, the family made me feel at home. They were incredibly kind, welcoming, and always happy to help.</p>
<p>What I liked most was the warm and personal atmosphere. The family also ran a restaurant where I had my daily meals, which quickly became part of my routine. It was a great place to connect with other volunteers and experience local food and hospitality.</p>
<p>The rooms were clean, comfortable, and, most importantly, had air conditioning, which, trust me, is a real luxury in Cambodia's heat! I was also lucky enough to have access to a gym on the property, which I could use for free during my stay.</p>
<p>Overall, it felt much less like accommodation and much more like a home away from home.</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 you don't need to have perfect English or teaching experience to make a difference. What matters most is showing up with an open mind, a positive attitude, and a willingness to connect with people.</p>
<p>I'd also recommend staying as long as possible. The longer you stay, the more you settle into daily life, build genuine relationships, and become part of the community. Some of the best moments happen long after the initial excitement wears off.</p>
<p>Don't overthink it too much and embrace the experience, be flexible, and say yes to new opportunities. Cambodia has a way of surprising you when you least expect it.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend Cambodia Volunteer Foundation to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Definitely. I would recommend Cambodia Volunteer Foundation to anyone looking for a meaningful volunteer experience.</p>
<p>From day one, I felt welcomed, supported, and part of a community. The team was always approachable, communication was easy, and everything was well organized.</p>
<p>What I liked most was how authentic the experience felt. It wasn't just about volunteering, it was about connecting with local people, experiencing Cambodian culture, and growing as a person along the way.</p>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?</h3>
<p>The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is perspective.</p>
<p>When you leave your familiar environment, you start seeing the world and yourself in a different way. You meet people with completely different backgrounds, lifestyles, and beliefs, and you realize how much there is to learn from one another.</p>
<p>For me, traveling abroad has made me more open-minded, adaptable, and grateful. It has taught me that despite our differences, people everywhere share many of the same hopes, dreams, and challenges.</p>
<p>Travel doesn't just show you new places. It changes the way you look at life.</p>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1785460551/images2/interviews/NJUm0G01vyOZkkN2E8vLY2EH4grSd1Ad2TMvdwPl.jpg" alt="Getting soaked during Khmer New Year celebrations! Water symbolizes cleansing, renewal, and washing away bad luck as people welcome the new year with joy and laughter."><div class="caption"><p>Getting soaked during Khmer New Year celebrations! Water symbolizes cleansing, renewal, and washing away bad luck as people welcome the new year with joy and laughter.</p></div></div>
<p>My time abroad reminded me of what really matters.</p>
<p>Before I left, I was focused on plans, goals, and figuring out what was next. But after months of traveling, volunteering, and meeting people from all walks of life, I realized that most of us are searching for the same things: connection, purpose, belonging, and happiness.</p>
<p>One of the biggest lessons I learned is that, no matter where we come from, we're all human. We may speak different languages, grow up in different cultures, and live completely different lives, but at the end of the day, we're all navigating challenges, doubts, hopes, and dreams in our own way. That realization made me more empathetic and helped me approach people with more understanding and less judgment.</p>
<p>I came home with a different perspective on life. Less focused on achievements and more focused on relationships, experiences, and being present. It sounds simple, but it's a lesson that has stayed with me ever since.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>To me, meaningful travel is about much more than visiting new places or checking destinations off a list. It's about connecting with people, understanding different cultures, and being open to experiences that challenge the way you see the world.</p>
<p>The most meaningful moments of my journey didn't happen at famous landmarks. They happened while sharing meals with strangers, listening to people's stories, spending time with local communities, and building friendships along the way. Those experiences gave me new perspectives and taught me lessons that no guidebook ever could.</p>
<p>But meaningful travel is not only about discovering the world around you. It's also about discovering yourself. Sometimes that means letting go—of assumptions, expectations, and even the image you have of who you are. The farther I traveled, the more I realized that growth often begins when you stop trying to become someone and start allowing yourself to simply be.</p>
<p>One lesson stood out above all others: no matter where we come from, we're all human. We all want to be seen, understood, loved, and accepted. We all carry our own struggles, hopes, and dreams. Travel helped me recognize those shared experiences and reminded me that there is often far more that unites us than divides us.</p>
<p>For me, that's what transformed my journey from simply seeing the world into truly understanding it and, in many ways, understanding myself as well.</p>

Mark Lünnemann

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Mark Lünnemann who participated in Cambodia Volunteer Foundation program.

Mark Lünnemann | Cambodia Volunteer Foundation Alumni Interview

Cambodia Volunteer Foundation Alumni Interview with Mark Lünnemann

<h3>What inspired you to go abroad?</h3>
<p>I have always wanted to experience a culture from the inside rather than simply visiting as a tourist. After finishing an important period in my life, I felt it was the perfect moment to challenge myself, improve my Spanish, and discover a completely different environment.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Colombia attracted me because of its rich culture, warm people, and incredible diversity. I also wanted to contribute to a meaningful project and have a positive impact while traveling. Going abroad seemed like the perfect opportunity to grow personally, gain confidence, and create unforgettable memories while stepping outside my comfort zone.</p>
<h3>Why did you choose <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/voluntours-colombia rel="" target="_self" class="link">Voluntours Colombia</a>?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1785464302/images2/interviews/1PsB6oQtuAArERkUABlOq3T3B0afIR7hjKdKCRZZ.png" alt="Me with some of the children we volunteered with"><div class="caption"><p>Me with some of the children we volunteered with</p></div></div>
<p>I was looking for a program that would allow me to improve my Spanish while also making a meaningful contribution to a local community.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/voluntours-colombia/programs/sports-children-and-community-volunteering-in-bucaramanga-193730 rel="" target="_self" class="link">Children &amp; Sports Program</a> offered exactly that combination. Every morning, I could attend Spanish classes and immediately put what I learned into practice during my volunteer activities and daily interactions with locals.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I also appreciated that Voluntours Colombia offered a very personal and authentic experience rather than a traditional tourist program. The opportunity to combine language learning, volunteering, cultural immersion, and community engagement made it the perfect choice for me.</p>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Colombia?</h3>
<p>One of my favorite aspects of Bucaramanga was how easy it was to immerse myself in daily Colombian life. Thanks to my Spanish classes every morning, I became more confident communicating with locals and was able to build genuine friendships throughout my stay.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Whether I was volunteering, playing volleyball, visiting local restaurants, or exploring the city with friends, I constantly had opportunities to practice Spanish and experience the culture firsthand. Bucaramanga felt authentic, welcoming, and far less touristy than many other destinations, which made the experience even more special.</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>One of the most extraordinary parts of my experience was the variety of ways I could connect with different communities. While my main project focused on working with children through sports activities, every Monday I also had the opportunity to teach English classes to inmates participating in a rehabilitation and reintegration program.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Those sessions had a profound impact on me. Listening to their stories, seeing their motivation to learn, and witnessing their efforts to build a better future challenged many of my assumptions and gave me a deeper understanding of second chances.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Combined with the friendships I built, my involvement in a local volleyball group, and the cultural immersion I experienced every day, these moments made my time in Colombia truly unforgettable.</p>
<h3>How did local staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The local staff was one of the highlights of my experience. From the moment I arrived, Laura, Luisa, and Simon made me feel welcomed, safe, and supported. They helped me settle into the city, explained local customs, and were always available whenever I had questions or needed assistance.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Throughout the program, they regularly checked in with volunteers to make sure everything was going well and helped us make the most of our time in Colombia. Their local knowledge also allowed us to discover places and experiences that we probably would never have found on our own. Their dedication and friendliness created an environment where I felt comfortable from day one.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1785464303/images2/interviews/ZSLgADEkDzrGQYq5Gbm79d2zKpIXEcM4CfgtXot4.jpg" alt="We also visited a dog shelter, and as an animal lover, I also enjoyed this experience"><div class="caption"><p>We also visited a dog shelter, and as an animal lover, I also enjoyed this experience</p></div></div>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>If I could do one thing differently, I would have stayed longer. It took only a few weeks for Bucaramanga to feel like home, and just as I had established strong friendships and settled into my routine, it was time to leave. There were still many places I wanted to visit and more projects I wanted to get involved with.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Looking back, I realize that the longer you stay, the deeper your connections become and the more you can immerse yourself in the local culture. I would definitely recommend future participants give themselves as much time as possible to fully enjoy the experience.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>A typical day started with breakfast before heading to my Spanish classes in the morning. The classes were interactive, practical, and adapted to my level, which helped me gain confidence in speaking Spanish.&nbsp;</p>
<p>After class, I usually had lunch before participating in volunteer activities with children through sports and recreational programs. On Mondays, I also joined English classes for inmates involved in a rehabilitation program, which became one of the most impactful parts of my experience.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In the evenings, I often met friends, explored Bucaramanga, practiced Spanish with locals, or attended volleyball training with a local team.</p>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>During my free time, I loved exploring Bucaramanga and spending time with the amazing people I met during my stay. One of the best decisions I made was joining a local volleyball group, which allowed me to meet Colombians and become part of the local community. I also enjoyed visiting cafés, exploring nearby towns, hiking, trying traditional Colombian food, and participating in social activities with other volunteers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Weekends were often filled with excursions and adventures around the Santander region, one weekend we went to Barichara and did paragliding on the way, it was awesome. Because there was always something happening, I never felt bored, and every week brought new opportunities to discover different aspects of Colombian culture</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1785464304/images2/interviews/MvUuzYMNC79uOErwwgiR13vqUjEwVHqHa14JbD7j.jpg" alt="We did many nice excursions and the people were amazing"><div class="caption"><p>We did many nice excursions and the people were amazing</p></div></div>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>I stayed in the girls' dormitory at Zamia Hostel, which quickly became much more than just a place to sleep. The hostel provided a comfortable and welcoming environment where volunteers from different countries could meet, share experiences, and build friendships.&nbsp;</p>
<p>What I liked most was the sense of community. There was always someone to talk to, explore the city with, or plan weekend trips together. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere made it easy to feel at home.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Living with other travelers and volunteers created many memorable moments and friendships that continued even after the program ended.</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>Future participants should know that this program offers much more than volunteering. The Spanish classes are an important part of the experience and greatly enhance your ability to connect with the local community.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Even if your Spanish is basic when you arrive, you will quickly gain confidence because you use the language every day—in class, during volunteering activities, and while spending time with local people.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The combination of language learning, community engagement, and cultural immersion creates a much deeper and more rewarding experience than traditional travel.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1785464304/images2/interviews/3c3drZCyTEs3hLyiUqxmCypGtu0C5hBA4md9DMgb.png" alt="I also supported English classes in the prison, it was a life changing experience for me."><div class="caption"><p>I also supported English classes in the prison, it was a life changing experience for me.</p></div></div>
<h3>Would you recommend Voluntours Colombia to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Absolutely. I would highly recommend Voluntours Colombia to anyone looking for an authentic and meaningful experience abroad.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The organization genuinely cares about both the volunteers and the local communities they support. The projects are well organized, the staff is incredibly supportive, and the overall experience allows participants to fully immerse themselves in Colombian culture.&nbsp;</p>
<p>What makes this program special is the personal approach and the strong sense of community that develops among volunteers and locals. I left Colombia with amazing memories, valuable life lessons, and friendships that I will keep for many years.</p>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?</h3>
<p>The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the personal growth that comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. Living in a different country teaches you adaptability, independence, and confidence. It also helps you see the world from different perspectives and develop a greater appreciation for cultural diversity.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Traveling abroad pushes you to challenge assumptions, communicate with people from different backgrounds, and become more open-minded. These are lessons that stay with you long after the trip has ended and continue to influence your personal and professional life.</p>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>My experience in Colombia changed the way I see both travel and community engagement.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1785464305/images2/interviews/2p0QC3weaHe35o01TRHz6CkAQct6ZvGIGJU4IUvz.png" alt="I will always remembder those children, the people, and the foundations we supported. It was an incredibly experience"><div class="caption"><p>I will always remembder those children, the people, and the foundations we supported. It was an incredibly experience</p></div></div>
<p>Working with children taught me patience and creativity, but the English classes with inmates had an especially lasting impact on me. Meeting people who were actively working to rebuild their lives reminded me of the importance of empathy, education, and second chances.&nbsp;</p>
<p>These experiences helped me become more open-minded and grateful while strengthening my confidence and intercultural communication skills. I returned home with lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and a deeper understanding of how meaningful human connections can transcend cultural and social differences.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel is about creating genuine connections and leaving a positive impact wherever possible.&nbsp;</p>
<p>During my time in Colombia, meaningful travel meant not only exploring a beautiful country but also becoming involved in local communities. Whether I was working with children, teaching English to inmates in a rehabilitation program, or simply spending time with local friends, I was constantly learning from the people around me.&nbsp;</p>
<p>These experiences taught me that travel is most rewarding when it goes beyond sightseeing and allows you to contribute, learn, and build relationships that continue long after the journey ends.</p>

Mailys Dellicour

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Mailys Dellicour who participated in Voluntours Colombia program.

Mailys Dellicour | Voluntours Colombia Alumni Interview

Voluntours Colombia Alumni Interview with Mailys Dellicour

<h3>What inspired you to go abroad?</h3>
<p>I always knew I wanted to go abroad at some point while I was in college, and the opportunity for me to go to Madrid and intern presented itself; I knew it was the right choice!&nbsp;</p>
<p>I had the opportunity to work with kids while pursuing a degree in Elementary Education and practice my Spanish-speaking skills, all while exploring a new city and country!</p>
<h3>Why did you choose <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/the-intern-group/programs/international-internships-in-madrid-118299 rel="" target="_self" class="link">International Internships in Madrid</a>?</h3>
<p>I chose this program because it really checked all the boxes of what I was looking for in a study abroad program. I wanted to be in a big city, live somewhat independently, pursue my academic or career interests, and improve my Spanish-speaking abilities.&nbsp;</p>
<p>My internship in Madrid provided me with all these opportunities and was so much better than I ever could have imagined.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Madrid?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1785458180/images2/interviews/V9yamWkzLvLsSzms601I7n1yXQam33PoxpAUCNI9.png" alt="Rooftop bar overlooking the city of Madrid"><div class="caption"><p>Rooftop bar overlooking the city of Madrid</p></div></div>
<p>I loved the community and culture in Madrid. There was always so much to do and explore, and all the locals were very friendly. I also really enjoyed getting to travel around Spain and visit other big cities, coastal areas, and small towns around the country.&nbsp;</p>
<p>One of my favorite things about Spain was all the celebrations and festivals that people had in the streets of the cities.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>My internship working with kids made my experience that much more extraordinary. Getting to spend the day with kids while practicing my Spanish made me sure that I want to be a teacher in the future and gave me so many valuable skills that I will carry with me into my future classrooms.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Everyone I interacted with, at work, in the program, and the locals, made my experience abroad so memorable.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>How did local staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>The local staff in Madrid were absolutely incredible!&nbsp;</p>
<p>They hosted events for all the interns to get to know each other, did regular check-ins to make sure our internships were going well, and provided support when difficult situations came up. They made sure we were able to live a full life while abroad and offered support in any way that we needed it!</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>I wish I would have extended my time abroad, either going early or staying later, so I could travel around Europe more. Because you are working a full-time internship, you only get weekends off, so I wish I had used the rest of my summer to travel more to different countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>However, my experience abroad has definitely expanded my passion for travel, and this has become a big life goal of mine!</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>During the week, I would get up in the morning and get ready for work. I was close enough that I was able to walk from my living accommodation to my internship site. I worked from 9 am to 4 pm, spending the entire day with kids, doing different activities, lessons, and games.&nbsp;</p>
<p>After I got off work, I would relax for a bit at the apartment before going out into the city. Sometimes I would have specific plans of something I wanted to do with other interns, but other nights I would explore new areas of the city that I had not been to yet.</p>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>I loved trying new cafes, going to museums, going to markets and festivals, traveling to different cities, and embracing everything that the city had to offer. I journaled every day while I was abroad, so I would sometimes go to a new park or cafe and journal about my experiences and everything that I had been doing while abroad.&nbsp;</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1785458181/images2/interviews/1eE2fdusPR1yNcWk7xwGTkpZXDW2u8MsYxSVPDac.png" alt="Madrid Pride"><div class="caption"><p>Madrid Pride</p></div></div>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>My housing accommodation was a fifteen-person apartment where everyone had their own room, and we had a shared living space, kitchen, and bathrooms.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This type of accommodation was really nice because it gave me the opportunity to meet other interns and other people living abroad, but also allowed me to have my own space.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>I think it is important to realize that interning abroad is different than just studying abroad. You cannot skip work like you would class to travel. You are there to do an internship, and communication with your supervisors is incredibly important.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I also think it is important to know what the work culture and customs are in your host country because they vary around the world, and your employer might have different expectations than what you are used to.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Would you recommend <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/the-intern-group rel="" target="_self" class="link">The Intern Group</a> to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Yes, I would definitely recommend this program and The Intern Group to other people interested in interning abroad.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I felt the perfect combination of independent and supported while abroad and made so many amazing connections with other interns in the program. You get such an immersive experience from working abroad versus studying abroad, and my provider really helped cultivate that.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1785458182/images2/interviews/mWEUrWuL0RiN3VKrhydlelF2SeLAb3nX51c2IJUA.png" alt="Parque del Retiro"><div class="caption"><p>Parque del Retiro</p></div></div>
<p>For me, the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is getting to meet new people from around the world.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I loved solo traveling on the weekends and for a week after my program ended because I got to stay in hostels with a lot of other solo travelers. We would go out and explore the city we were in together and then go our separate ways, but those few days were always so much fun.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>My time abroad has influenced my passion for travel, and it has definitely become something I want to prioritize in my life.&nbsp;</p>
<p>My internship really confirmed the career path I have chosen, and my overall experience helped me develop more independence, confidence, and self-reliance. I cannot wait to go abroad again!</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>To me, meaningful travel means really getting to know the people and the place that you are visiting.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Experiencing new cultures is incredibly important, but it is also very important to be mindful of how your actions may differ from the cultural norms and the impact you are having. It's important to be respectful of local people and really get to know the space you are in!</p>

Olivia Ennis

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Olivia Ennis who participated in The Intern Group program.

Olivia Ennis | The Intern Group Alumni Interview

The Intern Group Alumni Interview with Olivia Ennis

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