I applied without hesitation to the Bali overseas volunteer project that I wanted to join so much in order to have a meaningful break. I usually think of myself as nothing special, but the fact that I could help someone made me feel proud!
A review of my relaxing volunteer trip in Bali, where I experienced the most beautiful sunset in the world Kim So-Jeong, Korea GapYear Participant (University Student) / One Week of Overseas Volunteer Work in Bali |
# Hello! I’m a 21-year-old university student who just returned from a week-long short-term overseas volunteer program!
Hello. I’m a 21-year-old Korea GapYear Participant who just returned from a week of volunteer work. I was really happy to share my first overseas volunteer experience with Korea GapYear! Haha
I’ve been interested in overseas volunteer work for a long time, but I never had the courage to try it. After becoming a university student, while searching for a volunteer program to have a meaningful break with my friends, I found the overseas volunteer program in Bali that I really wanted to join, so I participated without hesitation.
. So, through this Korea GapYear Volunteer Activity, I want to share the knowledge and inspiration I gained with many people!
*For Kim So-jung, who wanted a special week-long vacation filled with new experiences and meaningful moments, a tailored 1:1 personal mission was provided every day, offering activities to enjoy leisurely time and opportunities to learn more about herself, along with a Korea GapYear Notebook for self-reflection and planning.
# The incredibly beautiful sunset in Bali captivated my attention!
The reason I chose the 'Relaxing Volunteer Activity in Bali' project among this Korea GapYear Program is that the incredibly beautiful sunset captivated my attention!
As I delved deeper into this project, the vivid testimonials from those who had previously participated in the overseas Korea GapYear Volunteer Programs gave me the confidence to make my decision.Since I love traveling and facing new environments, I thought it would be a loss not to participate in the Bali overseas volunteer project, where I could both share my skills with others and engage in various activities simultaneously! :)
# What preparations should I make before leaving for the Bali overseas volunteer activity?
Before departing for Bali, I prepared most of my items using the materials provided by the Korea GapYear. Therefore, there wasn't much that I specifically needed to think of.I also regularly exchanged emails with the program coordinator at Korea GapYear, resolving any questions I had. Their kind and prompt responses were incredibly helpful each time!
Although I was only there for a week of short-term overseas volunteering, I felt that I needed to prepare thoroughly and get my mindset right before going, especially since I was staying abroad. However, from the day the volunteering began (and even now), I often felt that one week was too short, leaving me with a sense of regret.
# During my time in Bali, my personality and values gradually became more positive!
Since I applied for a gap year to gain diverse experiences, my first goal before having the gap year was simply to complete my overseas volunteer work safely and return to Korea.
However, during my time in Bali, I noticed that my personality and values changed positively day by day, and most importantly, communication with people I was initially unsure about became enjoyable over time. Even when we struggled to communicate, I found myself naturally changing, like initiating conversations or greeting others.
# Korea GapYear Programs are distinctly different from other overseas volunteer activities!
This Korea GapYear Program was clearly different from other overseas volunteering. It was not just about serving others; it felt like I was on a trip, filled with fun activities! I was grateful to the local instructor who took many photos and actively participated whenever I wanted to try something new. Above all, it was truly wonderful to be with kind and friendly people while volunteering with the local organization.
The volunteer work I did involved teaching basic English to children, and the kids I met at the elementary school were very kind and lovely. Luckily, they liked us, so I was happy throughout the teaching. I think it would have been better if I had brought gifts.
While living with people from different environments, languages, and cultures, I learned how to understand others and had a meaningful time experiencing that culture firsthand. So, unlike at the beginning, I became someone who could take the initiative by the end! :)
# A Day in the Bali Overseas Volunteer Project!
Every day brought a different schedule and program, so there was no time to get bored. A schedule was set, and we received emails about it. The person managing us would remind us of the details again before each schedule, so there was no need to worry about what to do.
In the morning, we started our day in a comfortable accommodation and went to the restaurant for a delicious breakfast. After that, we had an English class with our instructor. We read an English book, and they corrected our pronunciation or clarified any parts we didn’t understand. The instructor was very good at English, so there were no difficulties.Afterward, we walked to a nearby elementary school to have an English class with the elementary students. Before going to class, we prepared by writing English words or drawing pictures on paper to come up with games.
After the volunteer activities, I had some free time to do activities like snorkeling, visiting waterfalls, exploring the shrine, and learning Balinese dance!
# The thought that I could help someone gave me a sense of fulfillment.
I used to think of myself as someone insignificant, but this volunteering experience in Bali made me realize that I am someone who can help others.
No matter where I go, the experiences I learned in Bali have positively impacted me afterward. I've also developed a fondness for Bali, and through the gap year program, I was able to fully appreciate the charm of volunteering.
# To those considering participating with Korea GapYear!
If you're currently contemplating it or have the opportunity, I highly recommend participating in a Korea GapYear Program before it's too late. I truly believe that the experiences and memories from that period are invaluable.
Even though volunteering can be challenging, it often turns out to be a valuable experience. However, with Korea GapYear's help the program is not difficult at all and will likely feel more like a healing experience! :)
# My Tips for Preparing for Volunteering Abroad in Bali!
- Language
: I was able to communicate easily with just the basic daily conversation skills I learned in Korea! I found it easy to communicate with simple and easy words, and as time went on, I became more comfortable talking, allowing me to converse with greater confidence! Also, before starting my English teaching volunteer work, I attended classes from the instructors. Knowing the correct pronunciation and unfamiliar words in advance will greatly help in teaching the children!
- Accommodation & Meals
: The electrical outlets were the same as in Korea, which was convenient, and there was air conditioning, allowing me to live comfortably throughout the volunteer period! Moreover, the meals provided at the accommodation were so delicious that I didn’t even eat the ramen I brought along! Haha. Breakfast consisted of tasty foods I was used to, like bread, milk, juice, and jam!
- Essentials
: While preparing for my volunteer activity in Bali, I found it sufficient to check the packing list provided by Gap Year. Also, it might be a good idea to bring a raincoat and some comfortable flip-flops in case it rains. I recommend bringing insect repellent as well!
My Bali Volunteer Gap Year!
Experience ★★★★★
: I had valuable experiences and meaningful volunteer activities, such as visiting waterfalls and snorkeling, which are not easily accessible in Korea!
Learning ★★★★
: I felt a sense of personal growth. It seems there’s a unique kind of learning that comes from volunteering abroad during a gap year!
Environment ★★★★★
: Due to the local weather conditions, it was hot, but it wasn't an issue since the most important aspect, the accommodation, was comfortable!ㅎ
Safety ★★★★
: It was very safe because there were kind and reliable guides and volunteers accompanying us!
Leisure ★★★★★
: There were plenty of shared spaces, including beachside sunbeds, which made it really enjoyable to relax, and activities like snorkeling were so much fun too!!
I applied without hesitation to the Bali overseas volunteer project that I wanted to join so much in order to have a meaningful break. I usually think of myself as nothing special, but the fact that I could help someone made me feel proud!
A review of my relaxing volunteer trip in Bali, where I experienced the most beautiful sunset in the world Kim So-Jeong, Korea GapYear Participant (University Student) / One Week of Overseas Volunteer Work in Bali |
# Hello! I’m a 21-year-old university student who just returned from a week-long short-term overseas volunteer program!
Hello. I’m a 21-year-old Korea GapYear Participant who just returned from a week of volunteer work. I was really happy to share my first overseas volunteer experience with Korea GapYear! Haha
I’ve been interested in overseas volunteer work for a long time, but I never had the courage to try it. After becoming a university student, while searching for a volunteer program to have a meaningful break with my friends, I found the overseas volunteer program in Bali that I really wanted to join, so I participated without hesitation.
. So, through this Korea GapYear Volunteer Activity, I want to share the knowledge and inspiration I gained with many people!
*For Kim So-jung, who wanted a special week-long vacation filled with new experiences and meaningful moments, a tailored 1:1 personal mission was provided every day, offering activities to enjoy leisurely time and opportunities to learn more about herself, along with a Korea GapYear Notebook for self-reflection and planning.
# The incredibly beautiful sunset in Bali captivated my attention!
The reason I chose the 'Relaxing Volunteer Activity in Bali' project among this Korea GapYear Program is that the incredibly beautiful sunset captivated my attention!
As I delved deeper into this project, the vivid testimonials from those who had previously participated in the overseas Korea GapYear Volunteer Programs gave me the confidence to make my decision.Since I love traveling and facing new environments, I thought it would be a loss not to participate in the Bali overseas volunteer project, where I could both share my skills with others and engage in various activities simultaneously! :)
# What preparations should I make before leaving for the Bali overseas volunteer activity?
Before departing for Bali, I prepared most of my items using the materials provided by the Korea GapYear. Therefore, there wasn't much that I specifically needed to think of.I also regularly exchanged emails with the program coordinator at Korea GapYear, resolving any questions I had. Their kind and prompt responses were incredibly helpful each time!
Although I was only there for a week of short-term overseas volunteering, I felt that I needed to prepare thoroughly and get my mindset right before going, especially since I was staying abroad. However, from the day the volunteering began (and even now), I often felt that one week was too short, leaving me with a sense of regret.
# During my time in Bali, my personality and values gradually became more positive!
Since I applied for a gap year to gain diverse experiences, my first goal before having the gap year was simply to complete my overseas volunteer work safely and return to Korea.
However, during my time in Bali, I noticed that my personality and values changed positively day by day, and most importantly, communication with people I was initially unsure about became enjoyable over time. Even when we struggled to communicate, I found myself naturally changing, like initiating conversations or greeting others.
# Korea GapYear Programs are distinctly different from other overseas volunteer activities!
This Korea GapYear Program was clearly different from other overseas volunteering. It was not just about serving others; it felt like I was on a trip, filled with fun activities! I was grateful to the local instructor who took many photos and actively participated whenever I wanted to try something new. Above all, it was truly wonderful to be with kind and friendly people while volunteering with the local organization.
The volunteer work I did involved teaching basic English to children, and the kids I met at the elementary school were very kind and lovely. Luckily, they liked us, so I was happy throughout the teaching. I think it would have been better if I had brought gifts.
While living with people from different environments, languages, and cultures, I learned how to understand others and had a meaningful time experiencing that culture firsthand. So, unlike at the beginning, I became someone who could take the initiative by the end! :)
# A Day in the Bali Overseas Volunteer Project!
Every day brought a different schedule and program, so there was no time to get bored. A schedule was set, and we received emails about it. The person managing us would remind us of the details again before each schedule, so there was no need to worry about what to do.
In the morning, we started our day in a comfortable accommodation and went to the restaurant for a delicious breakfast. After that, we had an English class with our instructor. We read an English book, and they corrected our pronunciation or clarified any parts we didn’t understand. The instructor was very good at English, so there were no difficulties.Afterward, we walked to a nearby elementary school to have an English class with the elementary students. Before going to class, we prepared by writing English words or drawing pictures on paper to come up with games.
After the volunteer activities, I had some free time to do activities like snorkeling, visiting waterfalls, exploring the shrine, and learning Balinese dance!
# The thought that I could help someone gave me a sense of fulfillment.
I used to think of myself as someone insignificant, but this volunteering experience in Bali made me realize that I am someone who can help others.
No matter where I go, the experiences I learned in Bali have positively impacted me afterward. I've also developed a fondness for Bali, and through the gap year program, I was able to fully appreciate the charm of volunteering.
# To those considering participating with Korea GapYear!
If you're currently contemplating it or have the opportunity, I highly recommend participating in a Korea GapYear Program before it's too late. I truly believe that the experiences and memories from that period are invaluable.
Even though volunteering can be challenging, it often turns out to be a valuable experience. However, with Korea GapYear's help the program is not difficult at all and will likely feel more like a healing experience! :)
# My Tips for Preparing for Volunteering Abroad in Bali!
- Language
: I was able to communicate easily with just the basic daily conversation skills I learned in Korea! I found it easy to communicate with simple and easy words, and as time went on, I became more comfortable talking, allowing me to converse with greater confidence! Also, before starting my English teaching volunteer work, I attended classes from the instructors. Knowing the correct pronunciation and unfamiliar words in advance will greatly help in teaching the children!
- Accommodation & Meals
: The electrical outlets were the same as in Korea, which was convenient, and there was air conditioning, allowing me to live comfortably throughout the volunteer period! Moreover, the meals provided at the accommodation were so delicious that I didn’t even eat the ramen I brought along! Haha. Breakfast consisted of tasty foods I was used to, like bread, milk, juice, and jam!
- Essentials
: While preparing for my volunteer activity in Bali, I found it sufficient to check the packing list provided by Gap Year. Also, it might be a good idea to bring a raincoat and some comfortable flip-flops in case it rains. I recommend bringing insect repellent as well!
My Bali Volunteer Gap Year!
Experience ★★★★★
: I had valuable experiences and meaningful volunteer activities, such as visiting waterfalls and snorkeling, which are not easily accessible in Korea!
Learning ★★★★
: I felt a sense of personal growth. It seems there’s a unique kind of learning that comes from volunteering abroad during a gap year!
Environment ★★★★★
: Due to the local weather conditions, it was hot, but it wasn't an issue since the most important aspect, the accommodation, was comfortable!ㅎ
Safety ★★★★
: It was very safe because there were kind and reliable guides and volunteers accompanying us!
Leisure ★★★★★
: There were plenty of shared spaces, including beachside sunbeds, which made it really enjoyable to relax, and activities like snorkeling were so much fun too!!