Review Volunteer Veronica Bruehert in PERU Cusco Nurse Program.
1- How was the local ABV Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country?
My coordinator was the best. She helped set up a great volunteer location when I wanted to change my location. She was prompt at the airport and was full of information and guidance to help me navigate Peru.
2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?
Program: Seeing all the differences in the health care here as compared to the US was very surprising and interesting to see.
Host Family: The most surprising thing was that lunch was the main meal of the day.
Country: The most surprising thing of the country was how crazy all the drivers are. The pedestrian doesn’t have the right away and you definitely have to be careful crossing the street.
3- What was the most challenging thing you experienced?
Program: The most challenging thing was realizing that the health care is much different here and I needed to do things the way they are done here and not necessarily the way I learned in the states.
Host Family: There wasn’t anything challenging with my host family. I got along great with them and love them all.
4- Any tips for future volunteers… (clothing, travel, personal items, donations)
1. Bring lots of warm clothes in June and July! It really does get cold at night. A warm jacket is a must.
2. The clinics don’t have a lot of extra supplies and gloves and masks are expensive so bringing your own really helps their cost and you can leave your extras for them.
3. You really don’t need to bring a lot of toilet paper. My host family always had some and most public places do too.
4. I really recommend coming in June. It’s the best month here in Cusco because of all the parades and celebrations leading up to Inti Raymi.
5.1-Other things volunteers should know before coming here:
(thats not in the orientation guide)
a. Definitely do your research about the weekend trips you might want to take. It really does add up and it really helps to have an idea so you bring enough for all you want to do.
b. Having an open mind is the most important thing. This isn’t the US and a lot of volunteers might forget that.
6- Personal Paragraph about the experience (ABV Program Testimonial):
I could not have asked for a better experience this past month in Peru. I made connections and friendships that will last a life time as well as learned the way of an amazing and wonderful community of people. I enjoyed my work I did at the clinic as a nurse and learned how to be a nurse here in Peru and helped where ever I could. I came to Peru to volunteer and help the people of Cusco and I did that, but I believe the people here taught me more than I can ever thank them for. I love Peru and the culture and traditions of the people here. I got to explore and discover new places every weekend and it was incredible. I will never forget my time here.
7- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security, friendliness, quality others:
The accommodations were great. I always had a hot shower and plenty to eat and drink. My host mom always made sure we had plenty to eat and if there was ever anything wrong she was right there to fix it. I always felt safe here and just about everyone I met was friendly and helpful.
8- What was your favorite memory of this trip?:
Program: I really enjoyed learning the ways of the health system here and the work the nurses do here. It really made me realize how fortunate we are in the US. I also enjoyed interacting with the patients.
Host Family: Everything. I loved my host family. Maria Elena was the best host mom I could have asked for. I’m so glad I got to know here and her family.
Country: I love the culture and people of Peru. I made so many connections and learned so much about the culture and traditions. I loved being able to participate in traditions like Inti Raymi.
9- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?
It was great! My emails were answered promptly and all my questions were responded to. I emailed with Sarah.
9.1- What do you think about the reservation system online?
It was very easy to use and informational.
9.2- Who did you find Abroaderview website
One of my family friends did this program last summer and she loved it so I wanted to try it.
10 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?
Yes
