Alumni Spotlight: Louis Schuler

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Louis Schuler is 18 and was born in London but lives in France. He is taking a year off school before going to university next year. In his free time, Louis does judo, tennis and rugby.

Why did you decide to do a gap year program with Sporting Opportunities?

Louis: I wasn’t sure what I wanted to study in university so I thought of taking a gap year. I have a passion for sport and I’ve always wanted to help people. So I decided to go to Africa to volunteer.

After looking on the internet I found sporting opportunities. It seemed like the perfect trip.

What was one of the most memorable days/experiences of the trip?

Louis: Of course coaching the kids and putting smiles on their faces was one of the highlights. But I also enjoyed going out on the weekends with the other volunteers. I got so close to all of them.

The people at the house organize a few trips too. We went to do the world's highest bungee jump which was amazing.

If you could go back and do something different, what would it be?

Louis: I would stay there longer.

Tell me about one person you met.

Louis: I met so many amazing people. I got so close to every one of them. We all had different backgrounds and came from different countries.

Some were my age doing a gap year, some took time off work. We all had a point common; we all wanted to volunteer.

How has this experience impacted your future?

Louis: The experience has helped me so much. I feel like have become a better person, more mature, and more appreciative of what I have at home. It has also helped me confirm that I want to do something that involves sport when I grow up.