Thursday, May 8, 2014

Decisions, Decisions

I've always wanted an opportunity to study abroad in my major. However, I was not financially able to do so as an undergraduate in college. After graduation, I searched many sites to find out if post-baccalaureate study abroad opportunities existed. I was able to find many but they too were costly. After some creativity, I decided that maybe I could volunteer abroad in my field of interest. This route would allow me to secure all of my flight details and accommodations to fit within my budget. It would also allow me to culturally engage in another country while giving back to the communities in need. Considering that I would be a solo traveler, the idea above seemed nice. I would essentially be on a working vacation. As a solo traveler, it was important to me to be on a trip that would keep me busy.

As a little girl, I have always looked up to doctors. They are patient, kind (especially the ones that gave me lollipops and colorful bandages during my visit), extremely smart (they face many difficult decisions), they use really cool tools and wear really cool uniforms, and they do a great job turning scary situations into more pleasant ones. It never got old for me. I went to school and received a degree in Criminal Justice and Biology with a specialization in Cellular and Molecular Biology. My heart is torn by those who do not have access to healthcare and by people who are just mistreated in general. I want to make a difference and aid in those situations  in which help is needed.

So, my volunteer abroad trip would surround health and medicine. I started looking for volunteer agencies that could help with my placement and I found IVHQ (International Volunteer HQ). I did some research and their fees were very low and they gave a discount for each additional week that you planned to stay. My heart was sold on the idea of travelling abroad and the hope that I would visit a new place and be able to help people in need.

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