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.
Learning how to survive in a tough situation without the luxuries of modern conveniences should be your first priority. This is done because to be a volunteer in developing countries means that you should deal with conditions that are not comfortable or convenient. Furthermore, you must learn to go through such hardships without complaint because to do so might insult the locals.
When you are given your placement from the recruitment office, you should immediately do your homework and learn everything about the country you are going to. Go online and research the geography and culture of the nation, as well as its core demographics. Most importantly, learn the language as much as you can so you could communicate with the locals upon your arrival.
While it can be very tempting to treat this whole affair as a vacation of sorts, your primary objective should be to focus on the basics. As such, packing for your volunteer job overseas should be strictly kept to the absolute essentials that can be reused to save on precious luggage space. Resist the urge to bring anything that will only be cumbersome during your trip.
Undergoing a medical review before your departure is necessary because you need to be physically fit and healthy to survive the rigors of an unfamiliar environment. Getting vaccinated from certain diseases and being prescribed with medicines are just some of the things you should expect to receive during this part. Think of it as required protection for your personal health.
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.
Last but not the least, be smart when it comes to your finances and always have a backup plan in place while you are engaged with volunteerism abroad. In case you unexpectedly run short of cash to pay for stuff, then your emergency fund should cover the cost. Outside of having carrying local currency, make sure to also have your credit card or ATM card with you at all times.
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.
Learning how to survive in a tough situation without the luxuries of modern conveniences should be your first priority. This is done because to be a volunteer in developing countries means that you should deal with conditions that are not comfortable or convenient. Furthermore, you must learn to go through such hardships without complaint because to do so might insult the locals.
When you are given your placement from the recruitment office, you should immediately do your homework and learn everything about the country you are going to. Go online and research the geography and culture of the nation, as well as its core demographics. Most importantly, learn the language as much as you can so you could communicate with the locals upon your arrival.
While it can be very tempting to treat this whole affair as a vacation of sorts, your primary objective should be to focus on the basics. As such, packing for your volunteer job overseas should be strictly kept to the absolute essentials that can be reused to save on precious luggage space. Resist the urge to bring anything that will only be cumbersome during your trip.
Undergoing a medical review before your departure is necessary because you need to be physically fit and healthy to survive the rigors of an unfamiliar environment. Getting vaccinated from certain diseases and being prescribed with medicines are just some of the things you should expect to receive during this part. Think of it as required protection for your personal health.
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.
Last but not the least, be smart when it comes to your finances and always have a backup plan in place while you are engaged with volunteerism abroad. In case you unexpectedly run short of cash to pay for stuff, then your emergency fund should cover the cost. Outside of having carrying local currency, make sure to also have your credit card or ATM card with you at all times.
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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