I’ve been involved with volunteering programs for years, and I’ve seen a lot of people sign up without really thinking about what they want to get out of the experience. Sometimes it seems like they’re travelambo us without a clear plan. I think that’s a mistake.
Volunteering abroad can be an amazing opportunity, but it’s not just about doing good deeds in a foreign country. If you’re not learning or growing in some way, you’re missing out on a big part of the value.
what skills can you actually gain from volunteering abroad
Some people think that volunteering abroad is all about manual labor or menial tasks, but that’s not always the case. Many organizations offer opportunities to develop specific skills, like teaching or conservation work.
For example, if you’re interested in education, you might be able to help develop curricula or teach classes. You can gain experience working with students from different backgrounds and learn new approaches to education.
- language skills: you may have the chance to practice a new language or even teach it to locals
- project management: some organizations let volunteers help plan and execute projects, which can be a great way to build management skills
These are just a couple of examples, but the point is that there are many ways to gain new skills while volunteering abroad.
how to make sure you’re learning while volunteering abroad
To get the most out of your experience, you need to be intentional about what you want to learn. Think about your goals and what skills you want to develop before you sign up for a program.
Some programs are more geared towards learning than others. Research the organization and read reviews from past volunteers to get a sense of what you can expect.
putting your new skills to use when you get back
One of the best parts of volunteering abroad is being able to apply what you’ve learned when you return home. Whether it’s a new skill or a fresh perspective, you can use your experience to make a positive impact in your own community.
- you can look for job opportunities that utilize your new skills
- you might be inspired to start a new project or volunteer program in your hometown
That’s the real value of volunteering abroad: it’s not just about the good you do while you’re there, it’s about the positive change you can bring about when you get back.