What inspired you to travel abroad?
I was inspired by my love for giving care to people everywhere. I started with volunteering activities when I was 15 years old at my local village in Lebanon, so I grew up with the feeling of caring. I will sacrifice all my time to volunteer and help others, and Germany is a good choice. Traveling to Germany has always been my childhood dream
Why did you choose IPSL?
Your program is full of activities. I reviewed it online and felt that I belonged, although I was just sitting on my couch in Lebanon. I was excited and thought that participating in such a program, and even more so in Germany, is a good opportunity and would improve my skills, expand my networks, and get to know more about other cultures. And of course, I want to learn more languages and skills.
What made your experience in Germany extraordinary?
My experience helped me meet new people and learn that every person has a different way of thinking and that there is a way to talk with each type. I knew how people think and enjoyed this because communication with people is great. My experience helped me become a better person and I'm willing to gain more experience.
How did the IPSL Germany program staff support you throughout your program?
Local staff helped me by discussing many issues related to our work. I benefited greatly by sharing my thoughts and opinions with others, helping others to understand what they need, and helping them feel comfortable and confident about themselves and the work where they are passionate about.
Hadi, a Lebanese business graduate, is gaining hands-on experience in management.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently before you went to Germany?
I wish I didn’t stop volunteering. As I mentioned, I started volunteering at the age of 15. Around that time, an organization invited volunteers like me to participate in an outside event, but for some reason, I didn’t participate. Maybe I was afraid of traveling at a young age.
Describe what a typical day in your life in Germany.
A typical day abroad began at dawn. I’d quickly grab breakfast and then report to my duties, which included standing watch, maintaining equipment, or assisting in the engine room. The morning passed with the crew, where we developed a sense of camaraderie through shared work. Lunch was a brief respite filled with stories and laughter. Afternoons involved tasks like navigation as we sailed. As the sun set, the ship grew quieter. After dinner, I’d relax, reading or simply gazing at the ocean. The day ended with a final check before sleep, rocked gently by the ship’s movement, ready to start again.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time there?
During my free time, I enjoyed a few simple but meaningful activities. Reading was a favorite—getting lost in a good book helped pass the time and offered an escape from the routine of ship life. I also liked to write, whether it was journaling about the day’s events or letters to friends and family back home.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I stayed in a cozy cabin aboard the ship, compact but functional. It had a small bed, a desk, and just enough storage for essentials. What I liked best was its simplicity and the sense of personal space it provided. The gentle rocking of the ship made it a peaceful retreat after a long day of work.
What is one thing every future participant should know about “IPSL Germany: Custom German Language and Volunteer Program” before their program begins?
Every future participant should know that adaptability is key. Life aboard a ship demands flexibility, whether in tasks, schedules, or living conditions. Embrace the unpredictability and be prepared to work closely with others in tight quarters. This experience will test and strengthen your resilience and teamwork skills.
Would you recommend IPSL to others? Why?
I strongly recommend IPSL to others. I was involved in it and had a great experience. If shown live, I will show others my changes and my own work to encourage them to attend; to go with their passion and see the opportunity to see all results and the best possible outcome.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the broadening of perspective. Experiencing different cultures, languages, and ways of life deepens your understanding of the world. It challenges preconceived notions, fosters empathy, and helps you grow personally. Traveling also inspires creativity and adaptability in new situations.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad changed your life?
My time abroad deeply impacted my life. It taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of teamwork. The isolation and vastness of the ocean gave me a profound appreciation for the simple things in life. It also fostered a strong sense of independence and a clearer understanding of what truly matters to me.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel is important to every individual. Traveling helps us gain new experiences and skills, learn about other cultures, and develop ourselves. By learning new languages, ways of living, seeing the world from the other side, different ways of thinking, and know how to communicate and speak with people
