I fell in love with Nepal. Kathmandu has a vibrant, fast paced energy; Pokhara was like a touristy resort town on a lake and Nagarkot was simply breathtaking. The food & people both constantly amazed me. I wish the hospital had actual responsibilities for us instead of us just watching most of the surgeries, but even that was great. I missed out on trekking but I plan on doing that if I return.
1. How was the local Coordinator and the staff and the support provided in-country?
The Coordinator was great. Very knowledgeable about the local area, was talkative & suggested many activities. He was very helpful with planning something (booking rooms & such). He was always answered my calls.
2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program?
I did not realize how lacking the infrastructure of Nepal was, especially post earthquake. Also I was surprised by the vast amount of construction going on everywhere in Nepal. Beyond that I was surprised how kind and generous so many people here to me.
3. What was most difficult thing you experienced while in the program?
I have traveled in Asia before so it wasn’t very difficult.
4. Any tips for future volunteers….(clothing, travel information, packing, sightseeing, donations)
I brought athletic shorts and shirts. You will not wear that once so don’t bring it. Rather invest in nice hiking pants and a jacket you can wear in hot or cold. I definitely advise Pokhara. Very different from Kathmandu/ Nagarkot/ Chitwan and there is a lot to do during a weekend visit.
4.1 Other things volunteers should know:
Most of the time I shadow Dr Swosti as I am a pre medicine student. I was able to see some surgeries like a cholecystectomy, endoscopic fluid being injected from the stomach and various suturing. It is a small hospital.
5. Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial):
I fell in love with Nepal. Kathmandu has a vibrant, fast paced energy; Pokhara was like a touristy resort town on a lake and Nagarkot was simply breathtaking. The food & people both constantly amazed me. I wish the hospital had actual responsibilities for us instead of us just watching most of the surgeries, but even that was great. I missed out on trekking but I plan on doing that if I return.
ABV: Premeds will shadow as they dont have any medical experience.
6. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security?
Accommodations, meals and security were all great. The breakfast & dinner was constantly great. We had to be home by 8/9 as a safety precaution but it made it challenging to experience the nightlife.
ABV: we have curfews in all our programs and locations as safety is our priority, this applies for any age.
7. What was your memory of this trip?
My favorite memory was heading to Pokhara during New Years with another group of ABV volunteers. There was a big festival and Pokhara is drop dead beautiful. Very fun & different from Kathmandu.
8. How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling? ?
No Complaints / Suggestions
9. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience?
Yes of course.