What inspired you to travel abroad?
I was inspired to volunteer with BECA by my desire to make a meaningful impact at a local level. BECA's mission to provide quality bilingual education in underserved areas resonated with my belief in the power of education to transform lives.
The opportunity for cultural exchange, personal growth, and BECA's focus on social justice made this an ideal choice. Additionally, previous volunteer experiences showed me the profound effects of community service, motivating me to seek a more extended and immersive opportunity post-graduation.
Excited to continue to advocate for high-quality education for all students.
Why did you choose Bilingual Education for Central America (BECA)?
I chose BECA because it was low cost (they did not require a deposit, nor were there any fees), which was crucial for avoiding financial strain after graduating with my undergraduate degree. The comprehensive training at the beginning of the program was perfect, as I lacked a teaching background.
Operating in Honduras, BECA offered an exciting chance to immerse myself in a Spanish-speaking community. BECA’s mission of providing quality bilingual education in underserved areas aligned with my social justice and educational equity values. Thus, BECA was the ideal choice for meaningful volunteer work.
What was your favorite part about Honduras?
My favorite part about Honduras was its rich culture, delicious food, and amazing coffee. The Honduran people's genuine, kind, and caring nature made my experience unforgettable.
I loved the country's diverse landscapes, from the mountains to the Caribbean coast, and enjoyed activities like kayaking on Lago de Yojoa. The vibrant mix of natural beauty and warm hospitality made Honduras a truly special place.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
What made my experience abroad extraordinary was the unwavering support and collaboration from everyone involved—community members, students, families, BECA staff, and fellow volunteers. Their genuine kindness and shared commitment to education created a nurturing environment where I felt valued and inspired every day.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
The local staff provided invaluable support throughout my program. They assisted with practical daily tasks like navigating cultural norms such as not flushing toilet paper and cleaning the pila.
Beyond that, they offered guidance through culture shock and homesickness, ensuring I felt supported and adjusted to my new environment smoothly. Their care and expertise were crucial in making my experience fulfilling and memorable.
During Semana Santa, a volunteer, and Nemanja hiked a volcano in Guatemala.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
One thing I wish I would have done differently during my time abroad is saying yes more often and embracing new experiences without hesitation. Looking back, my time in Honduras flew by incredibly fast and left me with a sense of missed opportunities. Thus, fully lean into curiosity and seize every chance for personal and cultural exploration.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
During my time abroad, a typical day began at 6:00 AM with an early rise to prepare for school. As a first-grade teacher, most of my day was spent with my energetic students, interspersed with brief prep periods for breaks.
After school, I dedicated an hour or two to wrapping up lessons and preparing for the next day in my classroom. Evenings included visiting students' homes to connect with their families, participating in team dinners where the volunteer team broke bread, or engaging in professional development sessions to enhance teaching skills and cultural understanding.
Each day was a blend of teaching, learning, and immersing myself fully in the vibrant community that welcomed me with warmth and openness.
Explored the architecture, art, and history of cities throughout Honduras.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
During my free time abroad, I cherished exploring Cofradia's local community, from leisurely walks and coffee shop visits to invigorating hikes in nearby mountains, indulging in traditional Honduran cuisine, and relishing quiet moments at home with a good book or engaging conversations with fellow volunteers.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I lived in a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house with shared living, kitchen, dining areas, and a back patio. I had my own room, but others shared theirs; we had wifi but no air conditioning (fans instead).
I loved the numerous windows that brought fresh air and light, especially on hot days. I appreciated the communal living setup, which fostered close bonds among volunteers and provided a comfortable space to unwind after busy days at school.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
One thing every future participant should know about the program is that while it's challenging, it's incredibly rewarding; expect heat, frustration, and tough days, but embrace the opportunity to discover your strengths, limitations, and place in the world.
Additionally, the support network of fellow volunteers and local staff will be instrumental in navigating and growing through these challenges, making the experience all the more transformative and meaningful.
Would you recommend Bilingual Education for Central America (BECA) to others? Why?
Absolutely, I would recommend BECA to others without hesitation. They provide high-quality bilingual education at low-to-no cost, partnering with local communities for sustainable impact. Each year brings unique experiences, guaranteed to be filled with fun, lasting memories, and personal growth.
BECA's approach enriches students' lives and fosters cultural exchange and community empowerment, making it a truly impactful and fulfilling experience for volunteers. This is something you want to be a part of!
Working with students was the best part of every day and some of the best memories.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is gaining a broader perspective and understanding of different cultures, people, and ways of life, which fosters empathy, personal growth, and a deeper appreciation for diversity.
Additionally, traveling abroad encourages adaptability and problem-solving skills as you navigate unfamiliar environments and situations. It opens doors to new opportunities, friendships, and experiences that can profoundly enrich your life and broaden your worldview.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Now that I'm home, my time abroad has profoundly impacted my life. It has brought me friendships that I hold closer than any others and driven me to be mission-oriented, fundamentally shifting my career track.
I have continued to work in the non-profit sector, leading with passion and dedicating myself to supporting others whenever possible, inspired by the transformative experiences and values cultivated abroad.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel, to me, is about genuine connection and personal growth. It involves immersing oneself in diverse cultures with curiosity and respect, engaging with local communities, and contributing positively to the places visited. It's about learning from others, broadening perspectives, and creating lasting memories that inspire empathy and a deeper understanding of the world.
