VOLUNTEER ABROAD AND MAKE AN IMPACT

Settling into the accommodation was easy with a lovely room and all the necessary facilities. The warm welcome from the other girls and initial tips from Ben, another volunteer, made the transition smooth. The hospital was more developed and modern than I expected. Though it was initially challenging to navigate, I felt well looked after.

Working in the hospital was incredible. I got to work under an extremely qualified clinical psychologist, learning a lot from her as well as through the practical elements of working with patients. Interviewing addiction patients, completing patient statistic forms, and having classes with Reema were some of the key experiences. The hospital experience was the most educational, allowing me to put what I have learned into practice. It will certainly help me stand out when applying for jobs, as practical hospital experience is something I couldn’t have done in Australia due to confidentiality.

Participating in the Holi festival and learning about local culture were highlights. Visiting mothers in the slums through the Fund a Mum project was also impactful. The relationships I built were life-changing, making Jaipur feel like a home away from home. I felt fully immersed in India and was lucky to feel at home in another country.

I encourage anyone to join this program. It was an amazing way to experience another country, build life-changing relationships, and gain knowledge for my future career. This experience exceeded all my expectations, and I hope to visit again one day.

My volunteer experience in South Africa on the Law and Human Rights programme was eye-opening and very impactful. From the moment I arrived, I was also fascinated and amazed by the warm and close-knit community village where I was staying. The daily placement provided an organized workplace with friendly staff, where I gained invaluable practical experience in law and human rights.

I delved into migrant and refugee rights, handling cases where clients faced challenges like citizenship refusals and educational barriers. I learned about South African law firsthand and engaged in drafting legal letters and conducting client consultations. Hearing clients’ migration stories, including the harsh conditions they fled, was profoundly moving and educational.

The skills I acquired are directly applicable to Australian law practices, making this experience incredibly valuable for my future career. I wholeheartedly recommend this program to others interested in law and human rights. In fact, a friend is already eager to join based on my recommendation!

My volunteer experience in Ghana was incredibly well-organized, starting from the moment I landed and received messages and a missed call from the waiting driver. This immediate support set a positive tone, ensuring a smooth transition into the program. The facilities at the children’s home, especially the modern school building, impressed me greatly, reflecting the commitment to providing a happy environment for the children.

Throughout my stay, I focused on building strong relationships, educating, and counselling both children and patients, which provided invaluable on-the-job experience and knowledge. Engaging with the children was particularly rewarding; they were friendly and eager to learn, making our mental health sessions and interactive games both enjoyable and impactful.

At the Psychiatric Hospital and local clinics, I participated in community outreach efforts, discussing important issues like mental illness and postnatal depression with local communities. Witnessing counselling sessions firsthand allowed me to apply my academic knowledge practically, offering insights and contributing to patient care. Overall, this experience not only enhanced my career prospects in psychology but also left a lasting impression as a deeply fulfilling personal and professional journey.

My time volunteering in Ghana was deeply meaningful, particularly the time spent working with children and at the Psychiatric Hospital. One of my favourite parts of the program was working with the children, where I enjoyed giving presentations and encouraging participation. The 1-on-1 sessions with the children helped them feel comfortable opening up about their past and discussing their feelings.

At the Psychiatric Hospital, I participated in counselling sessions, learning a lot from the psychologists and patients. It was gratifying to hear that the advice I suggested was used and found helpful. Joining the community outreach team, especially when visiting the local secondary school, was another highlight. Despite initial nerves, I provided a safe space for the children to open up and seek advice.

Working with Alex in the local health clinic was valuable as well. Although it was slow at times, Alex gave us assignments on different psychological disorders, which helped refresh my knowledge and prepared me for practical work later. My time at the Psychiatric Hospital stood out the most, particularly being involved in counselling sessions and helping a counsellor with patients. This experience built my confidence and provided invaluable hands-on experience in a psychiatric hospital, which is difficult to gain elsewhere.

Overall, this placement offered unique and valuable experiences, combining travel and practical work. I encourage others to participate, as it is a great opportunity to gain clinical experience and make a meaningful impact.