What inspired you to go abroad?
I had always wanted to work at and learn about the workings of an animal sanctuary, but in the US, it is very difficult to find an opportunity that doesn’t require a lot of prior experience as well as certification.
So I looked into abroad programs and found SOS Animal in Portugal! The world is too big not to travel.
Studying Abroad in New Zealand
Why did you choose the Media Internship in Portugal?
I chose SOS Animal because it seemed like the most hands-on animal experience I could get out of the given choices. Plus, I’d always wanted to go to Portugal, and with it being summer, it seemed like the perfect time to go.
I’d never done an internship before, and I wanted the opportunity to show my passion for animals.
What was your favorite part about Portugal?
I really enjoyed meeting the people who worked at the sanctuary who were from Portugal and taught me their culture and way of life, which I really respected and admired.
I also really enjoyed taking the train around Portugal, and going to the Algarve, Porto, and Lisbon! I loved that the sun was shining every single day.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
The freedom and independence while living at the sanctuary were beyond what I could have ever imagined. I learned so much about myself and who I want to be during this important time in my life while trying to figure out a career.
I was able to connect with the animals in a way that made me certain that I am meant to do this kind of work to achieve ultimate happiness.
London eye!!!
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
They were always giving me advice on places to visit, as well as telling me past occurrences at the sanctuary that helped me learn and understand everything on a deeper level.
They also cooked me meals from their culture, which helped me get out of my comfort zone. Also, they answered questions I had about the animal to further my knowledge.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I wish I had taken more time to travel to beaches because I never get to go to the beach back home, and the beach is my happy place.
I also wish I had made a bigger effort to raise money for the sanctuary to help further its development. Plus, I wish I could’ve run a fundraising event to spread awareness for the animals.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
I would wake up at 7:30 am, get changed into my work clothes, and start my rounds seeing the animals at 8 am.
I started with the chickens, turkeys, ducks, bunnies, and pig. Cleaning up poop and rinsing their water bowls, refilling, making sure they are healthy, and tracking how the injured animals are doing. Then I’d go to the pigeons and do the same thing. Then the chinchilla. Following that, the goats and sheep, which were my favorite part because they involved lots of cuddles. Then the horses, and last, the cats.
After the chores, I’d go make coffee and breakfast in the kitchen, and then look at my content and make videos for social media. Later, I’d go to the pool, read, and call friends and family.
I’d swim laps for exercise and cool off. Then I’d make dinner and visit with everyone, and usually, the other volunteers and I watched a show.
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
The pool at the sanctuary!
Also, visiting beautiful locations like Porto, Albufera, Lagos, Lisbon, as well as London and Arnside in the UK!
I loved going to nearby events as well to further my experience around Portuguese people and their food and traditions. I also loved going on a run around the countryside.
Azenhas Del Mar in Portugal
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I stayed at an old palace that was actually said to be older than the US. I loved the farm feel as well as the authenticity.
And of course, the rural feel, which made it a true sanctuary. My room was also very nice, and I felt like I had the perfect amount of space along with a nice roommate. I loved the homey feel.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Be okay with making your own fun. In my experience, I was in a very rural area with no car, and Uber expenses added up, so I was forced to stay at the sanctuary a lot with few people.
This was a challenge at first, but then I got into my own groove and made it my place and made my own routine. You have to give yourself grace and a moment to adapt.
Would you recommend your provider to others? Why?
Amandua at sanctuary
Yes, I definitely would recommend SOS Animal to other participants. It would give them the opportunity to dive into their love for animals and figure out if it truly brings them happiness.
Plus, Santarem is such a beautiful, unique place to spend a long period of time, and it’s worth experiencing an opportunity of a lifetime.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
Getting to know yourself and what you are capable of. You can’t know your limits and what you love if you don’t get out there and be uncomfortable.
There are so many people on this earth, and it makes zero sense to isolate yourself from people who differ from you. Being open to learning from others and having an open mind is the most powerful tool in life.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Post-abroad depression is a real thing, but like seriously, I went from experiencing something new every single day to going back to everything I already know.
With this, it took a moment, but I realized going abroad made me even more thankful for the life I have. I am more confident and not afraid of taking opportunities because you never know what good could come from it.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Embracing every single part. Every smell, every view, every person, every struggle, every scare, every single moment.
I want to live my life with an open mind and an open heart, because I believe that’s what makes travel truly meaningful.
Whether it’s going to a party or traveling across the world, I want to be this person.
