What inspired you to go abroad?
What inspired me to go abroad was a desire to step outside familiar routines and experience life from a more grounded, human perspective. I wanted to slow down, immerse myself in a different culture, and contribute in a way that felt meaningful rather than transactional.
Going abroad felt like an opportunity to learn through service, build genuine connections, and better understand both the world and myself through shared experience.
Why did you choose Fundacion Bolivar Education?
I chose this program because it was built on genuine relationships and a clear sense of purpose.
My initial connection through learning Spanish created a foundation of trust, and that trust extended naturally into the volunteer experience. The organization’s emphasis on community-led projects, long-term presence, and ethical engagement stood out to me.
Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all volunteer experience, this program values listening, adaptability, and meaningful contribution, which align closely with how I wanted to show up and give back.
Mindo
What was your favorite part about Quito?
My favorite part of the host country was the contrast and balance it offered. Staying in Quito allowed me to experience daily life in a historic city where culture, history, and community are woven into everyday routines.
As a side trip, visiting Mindo provided a completely different perspective—slower, immersed in nature, and deeply connected to the environment.
Together, Quito and Mindo showed me the richness and diversity of Ecuador, from vibrant urban life to quiet, natural spaces that invite reflection and connection.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
What made my experience abroad extraordinary was the level of access and trust I was given.
Rather than staying in one place, I visited over ten volunteer program sites, met people working directly in their communities, and documented their efforts through photography. Being invited behind the scenes allowed me to see the realities, challenges, and impact of the work in a very human way.
Contributing my skills while forming genuine connections transformed the experience from simple travel into something purposeful and deeply meaningful.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
The local staff provided support that went far beyond logistics.
The program director welcomed me into her home, shared home-cooked meals, and introduced me to everyday life through experiences like visiting the night market and enjoying traditional breakfasts. She took time to show me how to navigate the city, explained safety considerations, and shared insight into local customs and places to visit.
This level of personal care made me feel supported, safe, and truly connected, allowing me to focus fully on contributing and engaging with the community.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
If I could do one thing differently, it would be to balance my role as a photographer with more hands-on participation.
Because my primary focus was documenting the programs, I often worked in the background to capture moments as they naturally unfolded. While this was meaningful in its own way, I would have welcomed more opportunities to engage directly in daily activities alongside the community.
Being more hands-on would have deepened my understanding and connection while complementing the storytelling through photography.
Night market in Quito
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
A typical day began at the program director’s home with breakfast alongside other volunteers, a chance to relax and connect before heading out. I would then accompany program staff to various volunteer sites, documenting their work through photography.
Visiting multiple sites allowed me to see the scope of the programs and capture meaningful stories while supporting the team in the background.
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
After volunteering, I often joined local cultural and social activities, such as playing soccer with community members, learning to make chocolate, or going out for drinks with locals. I also spent evenings having dinner with other volunteers, sharing experiences, and reflecting on the day.
These moments offered deeper immersion, connection, and understanding of the communities.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I stayed in the program director’s home, which she generously offered for me to stay. It was very clean, comfortable, and welcoming. The location was ideal—just a short walk to the program director’s house for breakfast each morning, and close to shops, restaurants, and the famous artisan market where I could explore and find traditional items.
I appreciated both the comfort of the home and its convenient location, which allowed me to experience the city easily while feeling part of the local community.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Every future participant should know that this program offers a unique balance of meaningful volunteer work and cultural immersion. While you may have a specific role, as I did as a photographer, being open to engaging with the community and trying new experiences outside your role will enrich your time immensely.
Flexibility, curiosity, and a willingness to step into both planned and spontaneous opportunities are key to making the most of the experience.
Would you recommend your program to others? Why?
Definitely! I would recommend this program to anyone who wants to do meaningful volunteer work while really experiencing the local culture.
The program director and staff are incredibly welcoming and supportive, and I felt like I was part of the community from day one. Visiting multiple volunteer sites, connecting with locals, and having the freedom to explore made the experience both rewarding and memorable.
It’s the kind of program where you grow, learn, and feel like you’re truly contributing.
Mitad del Mundo
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
For me, the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the chance to step out of my usual routine and see the world through someone else’s eyes. You get to experience different cultures, meet people with unique perspectives, and challenge yourself in ways you can’t at home.
Traveling abroad also gives you time to reflect, slow down, and appreciate the small moments—whether it’s sharing a meal, exploring a new city, or contributing to a community. It’s a mix of learning, growth, and connection that stays with you long after you return.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Being home, I realize how much my time abroad changed my perspective.
Experiencing new cultures, connecting with communities, and volunteering reminded me to slow down, be present, and value human connection. It’s left me more curious, open, and appreciative in my everyday life.
I look forward to the next trip.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
To me, meaningful travel is about more than just visiting new places or taking photos—it’s about really connecting with the people, culture, and communities you encounter.
It’s slowing down enough to understand how others live, listening, learning, and contributing in a way that actually matters. Meaningful travel leaves you changed, helping you see the world and yourself differently while making a positive impact, no matter how small, along the way.
