Australian volunteer journal mail

Here's a sample journal entry for an Australian volunteer working abroad:

Date: March 15, 2023

Location: Kathmandu, Nepal

Project: Teaching English at a local school

Journal Entry:

Today was my first day at the school, and I'm still trying to wrap my head around the chaos that is Kathmandu. The traffic is insane, the air is thick with pollution, and the sounds of horns and construction are constant. But despite the chaos, the people here are so warm and welcoming.

I arrived at the school early, eager to meet my students and start teaching. The school is a small, one-room affair with a handful of desks and a blackboard. The students are all around 10-12 years old, and they're all so eager to learn. We started with some basic English phrases, and I was amazed at how quickly they picked it up.

After class, I met with my supervisor, a kind Nepali woman named Rina. She showed me around the school and introduced me to the other teachers. They're all so friendly and helpful, and I'm feeling really grateful to be here.

In the afternoon, I took a walk around the neighborhood to get a feel for the area. The streets are narrow and winding, with shops and stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. I stopped at a local tea shop for a cup of chai, and the owner, a friendly old man named Kumar, chatted with me for a while about his family and his business.

As the sun started to set, I made my way back to my hostel, exhausted but exhilarated. This is going to be an amazing adventure, and I'm so grateful to be a part of it.

Photos:

Reflection:

Today was a whirlwind of new experiences and sensations. From the moment I arrived in Kathmandu, I've been struck by the vibrant colors and sounds of the city. The people here are so warm and welcoming, and I'm feeling grateful to be a part of this community.

As I settle into my new routine, I'm starting to realize just how much I have to learn. The language is challenging, the customs are unfamiliar, and the culture is rich and complex. But I'm excited to take on these challenges and to learn as much as I can.

I'm also starting to feel a sense of purpose here. As a teacher, I know that I have the power to make a difference in the lives of my students. And as a volunteer, I know that I have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the community.

I'm excited to see what the future holds, and I'm grateful to be a part of this amazing adventure.

Next Steps: