Review Volunteer Alisha Weinstein Nepal Kathmandu health care program
Volunteer Nepal
1- How was the local Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country?
The local staff and coordinator were extremely welcoming. They are very knowledgeable about the area and can provide suggestions for hikes, restaurant etc. The host family helped introduce me to the Nepali culture and way of life.
2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program?
I was very surprised at the lack of resources that are provided to the hospital. The doctors are very well experienced but it is difficult for them to treat a patient to the best of their ability with such little equipment and money from the government.
3- What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program?
Having little experience with the public transport at the back home in the USA made it difficult to get accustomed to the packed buses during the peak hours. After the first week, I started to walk to and from work and found it to be a very relaxing time!
Volunteer in Nepal
4- Any tips for future volunteers… (Clothing, travel information, packing, sightseeing, donations)
If you are able to, the hospital can always use masks, gloves, scrubs etc. The scrubs I brought to Nepal I will be leaving at the hospital for the staff to use. Bring many boxes of each.
4.1-Other things volunteers should know:
Bring bug spray because of its monsoon now! They have a bug repellent cream but no spray. Use the mosquito net. If you have any questions at the house or hospital be proactive and ask.
5- Personal Paragraph (Volunteer Program Testimonial):
I have really enjoyed my time in Nepal. I came in having never been to Asia and found my trip to be well worth it. The hospital staffs are amazing and will always answer questions.
6- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security?
The accommodations and meals that the family cooked far exceeded my expectations. There is power 24/7 and nice rooms for the volunteers. Security is not an issue, I never felt unsafe.
7- What was your favorite memory of this trip?
Watching many surgeries + learning about diseases I would never see in the States. Many of the surgeons are eager to teach the volunteers and will give you a rundown of the surgery as they are doing it! The director of the hospital is also a great doctor to learn from.
8.- How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling? (Emails, website, support) Was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?
The info was substantial and covered all aspects of the program. I felt prepared and confident coming to Nepal thanks to the provided information by ABV.
9 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience?
Yes