The experience and culture shock was wonderful. The hospital was less busy than expected but I can’t blame people for not getting sick. Speaking with the doctor about cases and observing endoscopy and stitches were very helpful in viewing the healthcare of this country. It showed just how different & similar to world is.
1. How was the local Coordinator and the staff and the support provided in-country?
The Coordinator and staff in Nepal were wonderful. They had answers to any questions I had and were very helpful when travelling or sightseeing. The meals were great and the home stay family was lovely.
2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program?
The most surprising thing I experienced was the amount of street dogs in the city and the ability of public transport to carry so many people without breaking down.
3. What was most difficult thing you experienced while in the program?
The most difficult part of my trip was crossing the language barrier among locals and speaking to hospital staff that was not the doctor or head nurse. The language immersion class was very helpful.
4. Any tips for future volunteers….(clothing, travel information, packing, sightseeing, donations)
I would advice to pack light everything is easy access here and inexpensive.
4.1 Other things volunteers should know:
Make sure to visit Pokhara and do as much sightseeing as possible. There is always other ABV volunteers around so be sure to make friends and explore the country. Do not spend your whole trip in Kathmandu.
5. Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial):
The experience and culture shock was wonderful. The hospital was less busy than expected but I can’t blame people for not getting sick. Speaking with the doctor about cases and observing endoscopy and stitches were very helpful in viewing the healthcare of this country. It showed just how different & similar to world is.
6. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security?
The accommodation was wonderful. Meals were great and the home stay felt extremely safe the whole trip. I was never concerned for my safety. The family is superbly welcoming.
7. What was your memory of this trip?
My favorite memory of the trip was meeting new people and then spending New Year’s weekend in Pokhara for the street festival. It was all absolutely splendid.
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?
ABV was super helpful prior to traveling, though when plain “scrubs” a lab coat is sufficient and that detail would have been nice.
ABV: each program changes the requirements, bring lab coat and blue/green scrubs. Read the volunteer guide for details of uniforms, scrubs, lab coats and other details.
9. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience?
Definitely.