What inspired you to work for Evolve Abroad?
The founder is very passionate about what she does and believes in her staff. Evolve Abroad also interested me because you get to work with people from across the globe and get to know them better. My position lets me grow and learn new things in many departments, which has really inspired me. The organization helps people in need too, whether it be students volunteering or donating to a NGO, which is a real big inspiration.
With the founder and two students at a placement
What is the Evolve Abroad mission?
Our organization's mission is to educate, inspire, and to gain experience, while exploring a new world. We also aim to help those in need by volunteering, educating, and giving a helping hand.
What makes Evolve Abroad easy to market to potential participants?
Our name is clear and quite catchy. We have a wide range of programs and courses to offer participants, which makes marketing a bit easier. Our options are very attractive too.
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
My experience and education in teaching comes in handy especially when working with students who are currently studying and have joined our program to gain experience. I am able to guide them with teaching and provide useful tips. My travels have also benefited me in the position that I am in as at times it can be a base when getting to know one another. If I have previously travelled to their country or travelled somewhere where they have travelled to, it gives us something in common to talk about.
With students and founder-marine and nature conservation
What is your favorite part about working for Evolve Abroad?
Meeting new people from across the globe and getting to know them better. I also really enjoy learning new things, which often happens in my position. The founder is also enjoyable to work and really encourages me, which makes day to day activities a little less stressful.
Describe a typical day at work for you.
Before the pandemic, a typical day of work would be a list of several things. One would be mentoring the students. When mentoring and coordinating students/volunteers, I would ensure they get to their placements safely, complete their tasks at the placements, complete and understand the program, and discuss any feelings, whether it may be personal, positive, or negative feelings. I would do some admin work too, reaching out to universities, finding fun activities for our students/ volunteers to do, and any small tasks that might arise throughout the day.
Why do you do what you do?
It is my job role to do so, but at times I do a little extra as I care for my students/volunteers and want them to have the best experience, so running to the shops to get them their new favorite ice cream and have a chat is done with pleasure.
What makes Evolve Abroad easy to market to potential participants?
Our name is clear and quite catchy. We have a wide range of programs and courses to offer participants, which makes marketing a bit easier. Our options are very attractive too.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
Read a few articles on the city you plan on visiting. Besides reading the hot spots and tourist attractions, read about things that the locals might find offensive, which things to bring along from your hometown, what you might find and might not find, and their main platform for communicating.
Why should someone choose Evolve Abroad over your competitors?
We offer a wide range of programs in several countries around the world. You are able to volunteer, study, or be an intern, and we have scholarships available too!
With student at Boulders beach, famous penguin beach
How do you help support participants throughout their program?
I help support participants by having evening sessions with them, where they can discuss any topics and share their feelings. Participants are also able to contact me with any questions or problems they might face, and I would try my best to solve them ASAP.
What questions do participants often ask you, and how do you typically respond?
Participants often ask questions regarding social life in the town, which I usually do research on according to their personality, and would then advise. We also have participants asking about the program, how to complete certain tasks, which I would advise as to how to complete. If I am unsure I ask my employer/the founder, and then advise.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
We hope that our participants take away experiences, knowledge, and growth from our programs. Our programs are individually designed to practice one's strength, but also challenge your weaknesses. We hope that it will be a learning experience that participants can grow from.
Why do you think is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
In my experience, I would say that it encourages people to see life in a different manner. It encourages us to be more selfless and understanding. Living life without exploring I would say keeps our imagination and knowledge in a box. When you travel you become aware that people are different, and that difference isn't always bad or how you think it would be, because the media portrays it that way. To experience new cultures I would say makes you gain respect for others and even a little more love for your own culture.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
To me all travel is meaningful. If you travel for a holiday, you might experience something new, which you haven't planned for. To me I would describe meaningful travel as gaining something worth remembering when traveling, whether it changes your life or helps another.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
As easy as you get yourself in a situation, it's just as easy to get yourself out. Take note to always keep a little extra pennies, because treats can be enticing. Lastly, explore the world open mindedly.
If you could participate in one of your organization's programs, where would you go and what would you do?
I would love to either go to Mexico or Madagascar, and volunteer for wildlife management and conservation or marine biology. I do think all of our programs are very interesting, so it is a bit difficult to choose!
Teaching English in Vietnam
Are there any recent developments at Evolve Abroad that you would like to share with us?
Our organization has improvised with the pandemic and we have developed virtual programs. We are always adding to and developing our current programs and programs to come. As education evolves, so do we.
What hopes do you have for the future of Evolve Abroad?
My hopes for the future for our organization is to expand, offering more programs and placements worldwide. As the organization grows, I hope our contributions to those in need will grow too.
What hopes do you have for the future of international education?
My hopes for the future of international education is that we are able to meet all students' needs and educate them using a method they prefer. I hope that in the future we can educate students successfully and give each individual an opportunity they deserve.
