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Global community service: Why students choose to go abroad

September 14, 2015
Grace Lim, 10th grade Academy of the Canyons Middle College High School

Grace Lim, 10th grade
Academy of the Canyons Middle College High School

The technological advancements of the 21st century have unveiled new pathways for communication and interdependence on the international scale. With the spread of globalization through networks of communication such as social media and messaging platforms, students from all over the world have the chance to be connected and work towards a common cause.

Since an increasing amount of students are aware of global issues and have the means to travel and communicate across boundaries, more and more students are choosing to participate in community service abroad.

Through organizations such as Amor Missions, International Student Volunteers, and Cross-Cultural Solutions, students have the ability to go to other nations and take part in volunteer programs or initiatives. This global form of community service is continuously receiving interest and the amount of volunteers pursuing this choice of volunteerism is expected to grow.

In 2014 alone, the International Student Volunteers organization sent 30,000 students abroad and Amor Missions had 348,450 volunteers in Mexico and South Africa.

Organizations that host cross-boundary volunteer programs foster unique opportunities and cultural growth for the students. Although international community service may be a more complex and difficult demand, students are compelled to travel to other countries because of the one-of-a-kind experience. By meeting those of different cultures and working with people of various backgrounds, students can improve cultural awareness and learn more about each other.

Furthermore, international volunteering gives students an opportunity to assess career options. According to Heckscher, co-author of How to Live Your Dream of Volunteering Overseas, “Many volunteers appreciate the opportunity to use existing skills—such as accounting, writing, or nursing. But others want to do something totally different, often in pursuit of new directions in their lives.

By going to a specific country that is in need of a special skill such as animal conservation, teaching, or construction, volunteers can explore their talents and skills while assisting those in need.

 

9 Comments

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  5. Narelle Webber

    September 15, 2015 at 9:59 PM

    Thanks for the article however one of your figures is incorrect. “In 2014 alone, the International Student Volunteers organization sent 30,000 students abroad and Amor Missions had 348,450 volunteers in Mexico and South Africa.” – This is inaccurate – ISV has had over 30,0000 volunteers since we started in 2002. However, each year we take a few thousand. Please do correct.

    Narelle

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