The chance to volunteer abroad can be both intimidating and exciting at the same time. There is that fear of encountering unknown forces, but then you also get to experience a whole new world that you have never seen before. This is an opportunity that you should definitely not miss out, so here are some great tips to know before you pack your bags and do your part to help the world.
Be prepared to rough it out because this job primarily does away with the creature comforts you are used to having at home. When you are a volunteer in developing countries, chances are you will be living and working in very squalid conditions, and this is not for the faint of heart. Not only do you have to be physically able to handle this, but you should also be mentally prepared for the challenge.
Upon receiving your assignment from the volunteering program you signed up for, your next course of actions should be hitting the books to study everything about where you are going. Get a comprehensive knowledge base on the country you are heading to, as well as getting a handle on the languages and dialects. This will be a considerable advantage if you can learn this before you leave.
Do not treat this as a relaxing vacation so that means packing light and carrying only the most basic essentials. Whenever possible, anything you need to bring should fit in one large and heavy duty backpack so you can travel around with ease. If you need any additional supplies, you can always buy them when you arrive at your assigned destination.
Prior to your departure, get yourself tested for any diseases and make sure you get all the necessary vaccinations and medical shots which will boost your immunity against any foreign illnesses. This is a mandatory requirement that all volunteers have to comply before leaving. You certainly do not want to fall sick in a country with limited access to advanced medical facilities.
As a supplement to the previous statement, you must also be vigilant when it comes to helping the lives of others. Therefore, possessing the skills and knowledge on simple medical procedures will prove beneficial when the need to use them shall arise. Examples of the things you should practice include the application of first aid as well as knowing how to perform CPR.
Not everyone you will encounter is your friend, because there will always be those who have malicious intentions towards foreigners. That being said, there are plenty of people who are genuine and truly want to help you out when you need assistance. Strike the right balance between keeping your guard up at all times but also coming across as being polite and friendly to the locals.
Lastly, never make the mistake of not having emergency funds for your extended trip abroad doing volunteerism. Even when you have set aside a preordained budget, chances are there might be times when you will be forced to spend on some things that you did not expect. In this regard, it is prudent to have your credit card or international ATM card at the ready for such contingencies.
Volunteering in a foreign country can be enriching, and it might just change your perspective on how the world works in different cultures. Take these handy pieces of advice to heart, and you will surely achieve your altruistic goals. Be confident and always trust your instincts throughout your journey.
Be prepared to rough it out because this job primarily does away with the creature comforts you are used to having at home. When you are a volunteer in developing countries, chances are you will be living and working in very squalid conditions, and this is not for the faint of heart. Not only do you have to be physically able to handle this, but you should also be mentally prepared for the challenge.
Upon receiving your assignment from the volunteering program you signed up for, your next course of actions should be hitting the books to study everything about where you are going. Get a comprehensive knowledge base on the country you are heading to, as well as getting a handle on the languages and dialects. This will be a considerable advantage if you can learn this before you leave.
Do not treat this as a relaxing vacation so that means packing light and carrying only the most basic essentials. Whenever possible, anything you need to bring should fit in one large and heavy duty backpack so you can travel around with ease. If you need any additional supplies, you can always buy them when you arrive at your assigned destination.
Prior to your departure, get yourself tested for any diseases and make sure you get all the necessary vaccinations and medical shots which will boost your immunity against any foreign illnesses. This is a mandatory requirement that all volunteers have to comply before leaving. You certainly do not want to fall sick in a country with limited access to advanced medical facilities.
As a supplement to the previous statement, you must also be vigilant when it comes to helping the lives of others. Therefore, possessing the skills and knowledge on simple medical procedures will prove beneficial when the need to use them shall arise. Examples of the things you should practice include the application of first aid as well as knowing how to perform CPR.
Not everyone you will encounter is your friend, because there will always be those who have malicious intentions towards foreigners. That being said, there are plenty of people who are genuine and truly want to help you out when you need assistance. Strike the right balance between keeping your guard up at all times but also coming across as being polite and friendly to the locals.
Lastly, never make the mistake of not having emergency funds for your extended trip abroad doing volunteerism. Even when you have set aside a preordained budget, chances are there might be times when you will be forced to spend on some things that you did not expect. In this regard, it is prudent to have your credit card or international ATM card at the ready for such contingencies.
Volunteering in a foreign country can be enriching, and it might just change your perspective on how the world works in different cultures. Take these handy pieces of advice to heart, and you will surely achieve your altruistic goals. Be confident and always trust your instincts throughout your journey.
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