Experience of a lifetime!

I had the time of my life during my 3 month internship with NVT. I signed up to participate in
NVT’s Environmental Education program, where I got to teach elementary school kids the importance of environmental conversation and how they can make it part of their everyday lives. This was a lot of fun as psychology undergrad at the time. I almost chose to go to a different teaching position in Central America at the time. But I am I so glad I listened to my heart, because I love spending time getting real close to animals and nature.

This was a dream come true. Getting to travel to a continent I’ve never been before, spend 3 months in a new culture, teach kids, learn about animal and environmental conservation, live and work with new international friends and being in the middle of nature 24/7. When I was giving environmental education lessons to kids from different schools, we would often be outside on beaches, along rivers or in forests. There was a lot of hands on experience for the kids to experiment right after the lessons. I really enjoyed this teaching experience.

For me, it wasn’t just about the position I signed up for, it was everything else altogether. I got to live in a house close to a beach with several other peoples from all over the world! Some were volunteers, some were interns and others were post grads. The day to day living in that house and just being in the middle of Nature’s Valley was the best. There were so many different beautiful animals I got to see every day walking to and from the office. The NVT staff are awesome! They are extremely knowledgeable in their expertise, kind and a joy to be around. Humour was an integral part of everyday communication. It really felt like a family. The atmosphere was always light and inviting, it became a home away from home.

There were so many things I got to do being a NVT member. We spent time walking along beautiful beaches to collect and record marine debris for the Marine Debris program. Other days, we woke up early to set up nets to catch and release birds during bird-ringing. Sometimes, we would be paddling up and down the neighbouring estuary to monitor birds and fish levels. I also got to assist in data collection for one of the international interns who was finishing her thesis on Sunbirds at the time. On top of all of that, there were many outings we did altogether, be it related to NVT or for leisure ;). Not to mention you are in South Africa! NVT are very understanding and accommodating when it comes to asking for time off for your own tourism pursuits. Ask ahead of time and fulfill your responsibilities beforehand.

I have so many vivid memories from that time. I think it’s because I was so happy just to be there. Best decision ever. So many new experiences and friendships. If you are considering NVT, please you owe it to yourself. This wasn’t even in my field of study, yet I got so much from it. Just do it! Experience of a lifetime.