Join VIA! It'll change your life - for the better

My two years in Indonesia contained some of the most challenging and the most rewarding moments of my life. I constantly reflect on my experiences and how much I gained from participating in the program. It's not easy. Things like this never are. But it puts life in perspective and it's an experience unlike any other. No one quite understands the feeling unless they've gone through it themselves, but that is one of the reasons how I've met and kept some of my closest friends today.

What distinguishes VIA from say Peace Corps or the other volunteer programs out there is the intimacy and the support. It's a small program composed of excellent staff and volunteers. They are socially conscientious and care about the communities in which they work. The volunteers have a say in the direction of the program and often times they return to VIA as program coordinators and directors. You're not just another volunteer, they get to know you as a person, listen to what you want out of this experience and give you freedom to explore. Also, you are able to work with NGOs rather than teaching English if grammar is not your thing.

Indonesia is a fascinating country with the nicest people that I have ever met. I knew near nothing about the country before I went and came out with a wealth of knowledge. It helps that the language is an easier language to learn. The country is so varied and ridiculously beautiful that you'll fall in love with it, especially if you dive, surf, or hike.

Of course volunteering abroad in a county like Indonesia will be difficult and things aren't perfect. But, if you are debating the different programs, VIA should be at the top of your list. I cannot recommend this program enough.