Trip of a lifetime

This trip to Bali was, by far, one of the most rewarding months of my life. I arrived with no expectations, really, there was no way I could comprehend what I was getting myself into. To begin with the reason for my trip, I spent the month volunteering at an incredible after-school initiative called VP Bali. Teaching in Bali was so challenging, but to have each day end with your class running up to hug you goodbye made it worth every second. It’s so easy to doubt your abilities, but looking back, being thrown into the deep end gave me the skills to adapt and imagine, to build up the confidence to teach without hesitation. I taught a young class who were still learning their animals and colours, and also a class of 16/17 year olds (not too far off my own age!) who left me in constant shock with their desire to learn and improve their English. This first class was the one I found most challenging - the younger ones need constant attention and interactive learning, but are also quite shy and insecure in their English skills. It was difficult to find the perfect balance of education and excitement, but once you do, you can instantly sense the shift in their confidence. The second class was predominantly boys, and the progression of their respect for me over the month makes me so proud. The saying ‘boys will be boys’ ran true when I first started, they were super cheeky & were always laughing between each other, but as I continued and persisted with them, they not only proved me wrong in their work ethic, but they showed me genuine friendship and connection. The girls welcomed me with open arms on my first day, and are the most lovely people you’ll meet! My final goodbyes at the school were so pure, so full of love. All of the staff, local coordinators, students, drivers and families involved; thank you so much, you are all so dedicated and passionate about the vision for this school. If you’re even considering taking on an experience like this, please just do it. This trip has taught me how to love deeply: the people I’ve met are so incredibly special, so unique, so worthy of everything this world has to offer. It’s such a crazy thought to know that you have connections with people in every corner of the world, and being able to encounter and navigate different worldly perspectives is such an underrated experience.