Have you ever dreamt of volunteering abroad after high school? Leonie, a 20-year-old from Germany, did just that, guys! After graduating from high school, she made up her mind to embark on a life-changing 6-month volunteer journey with VCV in Vietnam, halfway across the globe and such a new world to her familiar surroundings in her hometown. More than just teaching English, her journey transformed into a journey of self-discovery. Intrigued by the impact on this young volunteer? Dive into Leonie’s story to learn about the unexpected challenges, heartwarming connections, and the life lessons she brought back home.
Q: Why did you choose a 6-month volunteer program with VCV in Vietnam?
A: I believe a longer program is crucial for truly immersing yourself in a new culture. As someone who primarily traveled within Europe, choosing a 6-month program with VCV felt perfect. Many short-term volunteers I met echoed this sentiment, wishing for more time.
Q: Was there a lot of pre-departure preparation needed for VCV?
A: Preparation was minimal, focusing on documents and vaccinations. Once you arrive, the VCV team warmly welcomes you and explains everything. Their supportive environment encourages asking questions – everyone’s happy to help!
Q: How has this 6-month experience contributed to your personal and professional development?
A: VCV has boosted my confidence in public speaking, which will be invaluable when I start university in April, especially for presentations and seminars. Beyond language skills, VCV has emphasized the importance of seeking help and continuous improvement, ensuring you’re a good, not just a “professional,” teacher.
Q: What makes VCV truly special in your opinion?
A: VCV’s magic lies in its people! You’ll live with a diverse group of volunteers, each with unique stories, and forge bonds with your students. Long-term volunteers naturally develop friendships with their classes. These connections, like going ice skating with my class, are what truly made this journey special.
Q: Did you face any challenges during your VCV experience?
A: Nothing major! Adjusting to the noise initially required closing the window, but honestly, Google Translate was sufficient for most communication needs.
Q: Top 3 tips for future VCV volunteers?
A: 1. Pack for Winter: It might not snow, but the high humidity makes it chilly indoors and out during winter months.
2. Learn Basic Vietnamese: Not everyone speaks English. A few basic phrases go a long way!
3. Embrace Open-Mindedness: You’ll encounter things different from your home environment. Be receptive – you might even adopt some Vietnamese customs!
Q: What made the Vietnamese people so special during your volunteer experience?
A: The most striking aspect of my time in Vietnam was the incredible hospitality. From friendly greetings on the street to invitations to family meals and hometown visits, everyone went above and beyond to make me feel welcome. This sense of warmth and openness is truly unique to Vietnamese culture.
Q: Beyond teaching English, what other opportunities did VCV offer?
A: VCV provided a fantastic platform to explore Vietnam. From organized outings to solo adventures, VCV encouraged volunteers to embrace the local culture.
Volunteer Tips for Maximizing Your VCV Experience:
A: Here are some tips for future VCV volunteers, especially those coming from Germany:
- Embrace Open-Mindedness: Be receptive to new experiences and seize opportunities as they arise.
- Financial Management (Budgeting Like a Pro): Having a budget plan is key, especially for Germans known for their fiscal responsibility. Set a spending limit and track your expenses regularly. Since Vietnam boasts a low cost of living, overspending is unlikely as long as you’re mindful. VCV even provides access to an ATM with fee-free withdrawals near the volunteer apartments!
- Time Management (Efficiency is Key): While a rough outline of your travel plans is helpful, booking accommodations just days in advance is usually feasible in Vietnam. Utilize platforms like Booking.com for stress-free booking. For transportation, consider seeking help from locals when booking for a more affordable and hassle-free experience. Leverage your German efficiency