Alumni Interview with Waleed Alsabbagh

What inspired you to go abroad? 

I was inspired by the idea of teaching children in summer camps and experiencing new cultures. 

Why did you choose IVHQ?

The affordable cost of the program compared to other organizations, many programs to choose from, and the good reviews on IVHQ.

Where did you volunteer and what was your favorite about the location?

I volunteered in Romania, Miercurea Ciuc. I loved the charming nature and affordable prices of Romania.

What made your experience abroad unique?

I was the only Arabic speaking volunteer in my group, so maybe this contrast gave me a unique opportunity to translate some English words to Arabic as per the children's request, and to write their names in Arabic. I really enjoyed doing that, even with the locals. 

How did local staff support you throughout your program?

The simplicity, intimacy, and kindness of the local staff alleviated any 'expected' culture shock. They were so helpful and cooperative and gave me the support I needed to go through my first volunteering experience.

What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?

Investing more time in improving and learning new methods of imparting knowledge to children. I felt I could have done it better, although the feedback was good.

Describe a typical day in the life of your program.

A typical day would be waking up at 7:15 a.m., walk for three minutes from the accommodation to a spot where we meet with one of the local staff at 8:10 a.m., to drive us in his van to the placement. The camp starts by 9:00 a.m. We would have a snack from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., then from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. lunch time. Normally by 2:00 p.m., the van comes to pick up those who want to go back to their accommodation, while there is an option to stay in the camp with the children until 5:00 p.m. and one of the local staff will drive you back in his car to your residence.

What did you enjoy doing in your free time?

Since the volunteers' stay is situated in a slightly busy area, I had a chance to wander and roam around. Cafes, coffee shops, restaurants, pubs, and shopping stores were at my fingertips. The Olommadar pub was one of my favorite places. 

What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?

Simple but nice. It was like a small gated community compound, and maybe that was the best about it. 

What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?

It's fun, but at the same time you are volunteering to benefit the program you are engaged in, and also to benefit yourself. So, prepare yourself before you participate and practice according to the program you've chosen, and if you are well prepared, then it will be an advantage to you and to the program. 

Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?

It had a great positive impact on my life, it gave me the confidence I needed and has opened my appetite for more.

Would you recommend IVHQ to others? Why? 

Absolutely ye! I would recommend the program with IVHQ because of the affordable cost, which is a major concern for many volunteers, added to that, everything is well organized, a wide variety of programs, and good follow up service. "What you see is what you get". 

What was the hardest part about volunteering abroad?

My concerns about volunteering abroad were focused on whether I would achieve what I am supposed to achieve and benefit the program I participated in by leaving a good impact behind, or fail in my mission!

If you could volunteer abroad again, where would you go?

I would like to volunteer in France, to explore its culture and get a French volunteering experience. If not, the second choice would be Romania, again. I fell in love with Miercurea Ciuc!

What do you feel the biggest benefit of volunteering abroad is?

I believe the mutually positive effect is the biggest benefit. I was once asked by a Romanian at dinner with friends about the period of my volunteering program, I told him I am here for two weeks. He looked at me and said, “And two weeks is enough for...?” And everybody at the table was silent for a couple of seconds, staring at me waiting for my answer. And I quickly thought about it and said, “Two weeks is enough to make new friends!”  I received praises for the answer. And truly, that was what I really meant to say, because I strongly believe in human relationships.