Serbia Everest and Volunteering Abroad
During December 2007 through March 2008, I was a Projects Abroad volunteer with
young 4th- 7th grade students in Brasov. My time in Romania was the very greatest
experience of my life. I never planned a repeat visit, an instant replay, but one year
later here I am once again.
Why? It all began about six years ago when I first thought of teaching English as a
second language in Asia or Eastern Europe. Eastern Europe was really my preference,
including Romania. The Projects Abroad organization offered me the opportunity
with students aged 10-13 in Brasov. It sounded perfect. Well, it really was.
My placement and experience was shaped by the Projects Abroad Romanian office
staff, my teaching placement at School 3, my host family, and the general hospitality
of Romanians during my stay. I was lucky. The combination made for a memorable
time in this country. I said “goodbye” to the wonderful kids at the school on 27th
March, and they did the same with beautiful “Thank you” notes, all hand-made of
course. I thought I would never see them again. For the winter of 2009, I planned to
work with students in another European country.
The summer of 2008 passed; (though the American Presidential election seemed
endless) and then autumn was upon me. I kept thinking of those great kids at School
3 and the wonderful English teacher, Ms. Ada Bena who had overseen my volunteer
experience.
|