Looking back - the best thing I have ever done

I have never travelled before, and surprised everyone when I applied for the SIC programme in 2008 (myself most of all!) What I enjoyed most about volunteering with SIC was how closely integrated to the communities you are. I had alot of friends who had done development work with larger companies, and had been put up in nice volunteer hotels. Nice, but a little detached in my opinion. Living with a Tanzanian family and working with the University teaching partners was a truly unique way to get to know the community and the people of Tanzania - who are probably some of the most kind and welcoming people in the world. You can see the changes you are making with your own eyes. I never felt worried the whole time I was there, as the SIC staff were always on hand to help you out if you were physically sick, or just homesick - the only time I ever felt unsafe was riding on an overcrowded bus (which the staff recommended we shouldn't do anyway!!)
Its quite a bit cost (I think more so now than when I did it) but you can fundraise your fees, and Id really recommend (if you can) making some savings to do other things whilst you're there. You get free weekends, and there is plenty to do and see!
Its often hard, its often dirty, its sometimes frustrating. I got a few tummy bugs, I sometimes cried and wanted to properly wash my feet! But it is 100% unique as an experience, and has really helped me with my teaching and research in International Health and Development. I wish I had made more of my once-in-a-lifetime trip, and I also wish Id taken a pair of jeans and a hoodie out with my - sometimes Africa is COLD! and sometimes you dont want to go socialising in your pyjama trousers. 3 years later and I still miss my SIC friends, my Tanzanian hosts, and even rice and beans. If you said I could go back tomorrow, I would.