I have recently been provided the amazing opportunity to volunteer abroad. The two places offered were in Tanzania and in Peru.
In Peru there is a substantial amount of poverty. Many children lack basic nutrition. The official description of the program is, “In Peru, you’ll work here to combat child malnutrition in Andean communities through the construction of food production projects, such as greenhouses, communal fish farms and “cuy” or guinea pig farms.” This program will last 21 days.
The other option, as mentioned previously, is in Tanzania. The official description concerning our volunteer work is, 'improve facilities at a village school, from refurbishing classrooms to building a playground. You’ll also form real relationships with the local children as you provide English tutoring and organize fun and educational games to play with them." The program will last 14 days.
Hopefully I don’t sound scummy for asking this, but which one do you believe looks better on a resume?
I was thinking maybe Tanzania because it’s in Africa.
Please note that the reason why I’m volunteering isn’t to improve my resume. It’s primarily, among some others, to serve and help the world.
I don’t think there is a stark difference - maybe time length? Maybe Tanzania because it is more remote and it’s farther away from the US than Peru. Really though, if you had a preference, it wouldn’t make much of a difference if you selected the one you preferred. It’s still an amazing opportunity. Personally, I would choose Tanzania because I’d probably never be able to visit Africa again in my life.
So if you are doing this because it “looks good” on your college app, you should think again. Colleges see these as opportunities that wealthy kids have to go on these sort of trips, and not a lot more. And essays about how it changed your life or your view of the world are common and overused. So honestly, do whichever one appeals the most to you – which one you choose won’t affect your app.
@berniesanders1, I agree it doesn’t make any difference where you go. More kids than you would think go to Africa! All three of my children have been, and we are not wealthy. My 18-year-old daughter volunteered at an orphanage last summer with her aunt and cousin. They had such a good experience they are going again in July. She loved the country. I don’t think you can go wrong either place.
I look at these trips in a more positive light than some people because the effect the Africa trip had on my 21-year-old son. He was 10 when we visited a fellowship in Cape Town, South Africa. He was so moved by all the little kids who flocked to him that he wants to work for some type of relief organization. He will be studying at the American University of Beirut starting this fall. At the same time, he will visit Syrian refugee camps at least once a week to help out where he can. So watch out - the trip might change you more than you expect!
They both sound good. Having been to both places, I would go to Peru. For just 3 weeks, it is an easier flight with no jet lag. The scenery is better. If you have some extra time you could do things like Machu Picchu, rainforest, maybe Galapagos (Ecuador). Of course, there are cool wildlife things to do in Tanzania, but the cost would be higher. If you have the time and money, you could visit Zanzibar, and do the Masai Mara/Serengeti/Ngorongoro Crater circuit.
Go to Peru!!! I just visited Peru this year, and it was THE MOST beautiful place I’ve ever been. The mountain views are spectacular, and the people we met there were very open and friendly. That being said, I can’t judge Tanzania. But, if you are looking beyond just the “merit” each trip would provide, it’s important to consider other factors to get the most out of your trip. For example, if you speak Spanish, it would be good to go to Peru, but if you have lung issues (being asthmatic this is probab