What inspired you to go abroad?
I was inspired to go abroad because I wanted to learn more about the culture, improve my language skills, meet new people, and help others in any way I could. By going abroad with Mondify, I achieved all of this and more. The experience exceeded my expectations, offering personal growth, unforgettable memories, and meaningful connections. The staff was incredibly helpful, guiding me throughout the program, and the organization was very well structured, which made everything run smoothly. It was truly one of the best experiences I’ve ever had, and I would gladly do it again because of the positive impact it had on my life.
Why did you choose your specific program?
I chose this specific program because, as a law student, volunteering in the field of human rights was a perfect fit. It aligned with my passion and allowed me to apply what I’ve learned in a real-world context. I loved every project I worked on and valued every person I met along the way. The program offered meaningful experiences that challenged me, expanded my understanding of human rights issues, and helped me develop practical skills. Beyond the work itself, the connections I made with other volunteers and local staff were inspiring and motivating. Overall, it was an opportunity to grow personally and professionally while making a positive impact.
The place where we gave food to homeless people
What was your favorite part of your host country?
My favorite part about my host country was definitely the food and the people. The cuisine was incredible, with flavors and dishes I had never tried before, making every meal a new adventure. But what truly made me feel at home were the people; they were so welcoming, kind, and loving. From friendly neighbors to my host family, everyone made an effort to include me, share their culture, and make me feel like I belonged. Their warmth and generosity made the experience unforgettable, and combined with the amazing food, it created a sense of comfort and joy that I will always remember.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
Everything made my experience abroad extraordinary, but the liberty and freedom definitely played a big part. Being able to explore the country at my own pace allowed me to fully immerse myself in the culture, discover new places, and meet incredible people along the way. I could try new activities, visit landmarks, and even go off the beaten path without feeling restricted. This independence helped me grow more confident, responsible, and self-aware. Every moment, whether it was an adventure, a simple conversation, or a quiet reflection, added to the richness of the experience, making it truly unforgettable and life-changing.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
The local staff supported me every step of the way and were always there when I needed them. From the very beginning, they made sure I felt welcomed, comfortable, and prepared for my experience. Whenever I had questions, concerns, or just needed advice, they were quick to respond with kindness and patience. Their guidance made it much easier to adapt to the new environment, and I always felt that I could count on them for both professional and personal support. Knowing that they were available gave me a sense of security and allowed me to focus on enjoying and making the most out of my program.
What's one thing you wish you had done differently during your time abroad?
Honestly, nothing, because I felt very well prepared for my time abroad. I took the experience with an open mind and made the most of every opportunity that came my way. I adapted quickly, enjoyed the challenges, and embraced the cultural differences without hesitation. Looking back, I feel proud that I stayed true to myself and didn’t hold back from trying new things or meeting new people. Of course, no experience is ever perfect, but I believe that being prepared and positive helped me avoid regrets. For that reason, there isn’t really anything I wish I had done differently.
A photo of the view
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
A typical day in my life abroad started with waking up early and going to work on one of my missions. Each morning brought new tasks and responsibilities that helped me learn and grow. After finishing work, I returned to my house, had lunch, and then enjoyed my free afternoons. Sometimes I met up with friends, explored new places, or simply relaxed while taking in the atmosphere of my surroundings. In the evenings, I always looked forward to family dinners with my host family. These moments were special, filled with good food, laughter, and conversations that made me feel at home. This balance of work, exploration, and connection made every day meaningful and rewarding.
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
During my free time abroad, I really enjoyed visiting the capital. Exploring the city allowed me to see its most iconic landmarks, discover its history, and experience the energy of local life. I loved walking through different neighborhoods, trying new foods, and visiting museums or cultural sites that gave me a deeper understanding of the country. Spending time in the capital also meant meeting new people, both locals and other travelers, which made each visit even more exciting. Every trip there felt like a new adventure, and I appreciated how much it broadened my perspective while creating memories I will always cherish.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I stayed in a house with a host family, and what I liked best about it was the family itself. They were truly amazing, welcoming, supportive, and always ready to help me feel at home. Living with them gave me the chance to experience the culture in a very authentic way, from sharing meals together to learning about their traditions and daily routines. I really appreciated the warmth and kindness they showed me, which made the transition much easier and created a sense of belonging. The connections I built with them made my stay unforgettable, and I will always be grateful for the memories we created together.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
You should be able to adapt, because it can be challenging at first. Everything feels new, and it might take time to get used to the culture, the people, and the daily rhythm. The most important thing is to be yourself, stay open, and be chill when things don’t go as planned. Flexibility and patience will make the experience much smoother, and you’ll soon realize that the challenges are part of the adventure. They help you grow, make you stronger, and often lead to the most memorable moments. Embracing the ups and downs will allow you to fully enjoy the program and get the best out of it.
My family with whom I lived (some other student and my host parents)
Would you recommend your program to others? Why?
Yes, because it made me grow up, see things differently, and become much more open-minded. I would recommend this program to others since it offers the chance to step outside of your comfort zone, meet amazing people, and experience a culture in a very authentic way. It not only allows you to learn about the world but also about yourself, helping you gain independence, confidence, and new perspectives. The support from the program and the unforgettable experiences it provided made my time abroad both meaningful and transformative. I truly believe anyone who joins would benefit in ways that last far beyond the trip itself.
What do you feel is the biggest benefit of traveling abroad?
To meet new people and to know more about yourself. Traveling abroad pushes you outside of your comfort zone, exposing you to different cultures, traditions, and perspectives. This experience not only helps you build meaningful connections with people from around the world but also deepens your understanding of your own values and identity. By navigating unfamiliar environments, learning new languages, and adapting to diverse lifestyles, you develop resilience, open-mindedness, and empathy. These moments of cultural exchange enrich your life, broaden your worldview, and often inspire personal growth in ways that staying at home cannot. Ultimately, traveling abroad transforms both the way you see others and the way you see yourself.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Yes, I have great memories and still speak to my friends from there. I still remember experiences and conversations that made me very happy and grateful for this opportunity. Living abroad gave me a new perspective on life and taught me to appreciate diversity in people and cultures. I feel more confident and independent now, as I learned how to adapt to unfamiliar situations and navigate challenges far from home. The friendships I built continue to enrich my life, reminding me that distance does not weaken meaningful connections. Overall, my time abroad left me with lasting happiness, personal growth, and a deeper appreciation for the world around me.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
When things that were not planned happen, and you enjoy every second of them. To me, meaningful travel is about embracing the unexpected, letting challenges shape you, and discovering your own strength through those moments. It’s not just about seeing new places, but about how those experiences change the way you think and feel. When you struggle with yourself but always find solutions, you grow more adaptable, patient, and confident. Being open to new experiences allows you to connect deeply with people and cultures, creating memories that stay with you long after the trip ends. Meaningful travel leaves you transformed, carrying lessons and joy that continue to influence your everyday life.
