There are multiple options when it comes to choosing the perfect international volunteering opportunities for you. Such as – AIESEC Global Volunteer Program, WorkAway Volunteering Opportunities, Worldpackers International Exchanges, HelpStay Volunteering Stays, etc.

Are you a university student in India? And are you looking for meaningful and exciting volunteering opportunities abroad? If so, then you’ve come to the right place! Indeed, volunteering abroad can be a life-changing experience. As it not only allows you to make a positive impact but also provides you with valuable skills and cultural immersion. 

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Whether you are in your gap year or want to just travel during your vacations, volunteering abroad can be the best option to spend your vacation more productively.

Also Read – Schengen Visa Is Free For AIESEC Exchanges!

International volunteering opportunities abroad provide more than just cultural exposure. They offer a transformative personal development journey that allows you to explore your full potential. Engaging in these volunteering experiences helps you cultivate self-confidence and build a stronger sense of self.

Luckily, this blog post will provide you with the ultimate guide to choosing the best volunteer abroad Programs.

Why Choose International Volunteering?

International volunteering offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that goes beyond typical travel adventures. It opens doors to a world of meaningful & long-lasting connections, cultural immersion, and personal growth. Moreover, by choosing international volunteering, you embark on a journey that allows you to make a genuine difference in the lives of others while discovering new perspectives about the world and yourself.

Whether it involves teaching underprivileged children, language teaching in schools or academies, protecting endangered wildlife, or building sustainable infrastructure, international volunteering offers an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to global communities and tackle pressing social and environmental issues.

Additionally, almost 90% of international volunteering opportunities contribute towards the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Which indirectly means you are contributing towards the betterment of society.

Indeed, by going on an international volunteering opportunity, you create a chance to step outside your comfort zone, which is extremely important during your college years. Apart from this, you make lifelong friendships and create memories that will shape your worldview.

Trust me, after doing an international exchange opportunity, your perspective of looking towards the world changes in a much more positive way.

So, why choose international volunteering?

Because it’s not just about exploring new destinations; it’s about making a positive impact and becoming part of something greater than yourself.

Benefits of Volunteering Abroad During College Years!

Without any doubt, volunteering abroad during your college years can be an incredible and rewarding experience with numerous benefits. It offers a chance to break free from the classroom and step into a hands-on learning environment.

Here are some of the benefits of Volunteering Abroad During College Years –

• Global Awareness – You gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for different cultures.

• Skill Development – You acquire valuable skills like adaptability, problem-solving, crisis management, self-confidence, management, understanding of finances and cross-cultural communication.
  
• A Home Away From Your Home – You create lifelong memories and meaningful friendships.

• Networking Opportunities – You get a chance to connect with professionals and organizations for potential future career prospects.

• Personal Growth – You would experience transformative personal growth and become more self-aware.

• Cultural Enrichment – You would immerse yourself in a different culture, ethnicity, traditions, and beliefs that would break your stereotypes and broaden your perspective.

• Impactful Contributions – Indeed, you would have a positive impact on the lives of others and leave a lasting legacy.

• Purposeful Engagement: You can even engage yourself in meaningful volunteering opportunities that align with your passions, career goals, interests and values.

Top 4 International Volunteering Opportunities For University Students

Embarking on international volunteering opportunities can be an enriching experience for university students, offering them a chance to make a positive impact while gaining invaluable skills and perspectives. Here are four top international volunteering opportunities specifically curated for university students from India –

#1 AIESEC Global Volunteer Program

AIESEC’s Global Volunteer Program is basically a cross-cultural exchange for six to eight weeks in more than 120+ countries. There are multiple benefits of an AIESEC Exchange that help you in each and every aspect of personal development, such as, You Discover Your True Self, Create A Home Away From Your Home, Gain Confidence, and much more.

AIESEC, the world’s largest youth-led organization, has designed its volunteer program to align with the United Nations’ 16 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Through AIESEC’s Global Volunteer Program, participants can choose from a wide range of projects that address critical global challenges, such as quality education, gender equality, environmental sustainability, and poverty alleviation. These projects are carefully crafted to make a positive and meaningful impact on local communities while fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.

By participating in the Global Volunteer Program, university students not only have the chance to immerse themselves in different cultures but also actively contribute to the achievement of the SDGs. Whether it’s teaching English to underprivileged children, organizing environmental awareness campaigns, or empowering women through skills development. AIESEC provides opportunities for students to make a tangible difference in areas that align with their passions and interests.

Moreover, AIESEC’s extensive network of local committees in over 120 countries ensures that participants receive support and guidance throughout their volunteering journey. From pre-departure preparations to on-ground assistance, AIESEC strives to create a safe and rewarding experience for its volunteers.

The cultural exchanges facilitated by AIESEC’s Global Volunteer Program not only promote personal growth and intercultural competence but also foster a global mindset among participants. By working towards the UN’s SDGs, university students gain a broader perspective on the world’s most pressing challenges and develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become responsible global citizens.

In summary, AIESEC’s Global Volunteer Program provides a platform for university students to engage in cross-cultural experiences while contributing to sustainable development. With its presence in 120+ countries and alignment with the UN’s 16 SDGs, AIESEC empowers young individuals to make a positive impact on local communities, fostering a more inclusive and sustainable future.

You might also want to check out 10 Things You Should Know Before Going For An AIESEC Exchange! This will help you to be prepared for your AIESEC Exchange.

FAQs About AIESEC Global Volunteer Program

1. What is AIESEC Global Volunteer?
   AIESEC Global Volunteer is a six-eight week cultural exchange program.
   
   
2. How can I volunteer in AIESEC?
   You can sign up yourself on the AIESEC Official Website. Once done, the Local AIESEC Office in your area with get in touch with you for the further process.
   
   
3. Do AIESEC Volunteers get paid?
   AIESEC’s Global Volunteer Program is a voluntary unpaid program.
   
   
4. Who is eligible for AIESEC Global Volunteer Program?
   Youth below the age of 30 years are eligible for AIESEC Global Volunteer Program.
   

#2 WorkAway International Volunteering Opportunities

WorkAway is a popular platform that offers international volunteering opportunities for individuals seeking impactful travel experiences. WorkAway connects volunteers with hosts across the globe, providing a unique chance to engage in cultural exchanges while contributing their skills and time.

Also, it is very easy for Indians to volunteer abroad with WorkAway. Since there are multiple opportunities from more than 120+ countries.

Through WorkAway, volunteers can choose from a diverse range of projects, including organic farming, eco-building, teaching, and community development. By immersing themselves in local communities, volunteers not only make a positive impact but also gain a deeper understanding of different cultures and lifestyles.

With WorkAway, you can almost Travel For Free while exchanging your skills and expertise.

Most importantly, WorkAway promotes a spirit of exchange, where volunteers receive food and accommodation in exchange for their work, making it an affordable option for those looking to explore the world while making a difference. With WorkAway, individuals can embark on transformative journeys, broaden their horizons, and create lasting connections with people from all walks of life.

FAQs About WorkAway Opportunities

1. Can you get paid on WorkAway?
   Yes, some opportunities on WorkAway do offer minimum wage payments. However, most of the opportunities do not offer any payment.
   
   
2. Is WorkAway worth the money?
   Yes, with just paying the subscription fee of about INR 4000, you apply to multiple opportunities in a span of 1 year. Apart from this, most of the opportunities offer free accommodation and food for the entire duration of your volunteering opportunity.

#3 Worldpackers International Exchanges

Worldpackers International Exchanges provide a thrilling opportunity for travellers to engage in cultural immersion, learn new skills, and make a positive impact worldwide. Worldpackers connects travellers with hosts in various destinations, offering a range of exchange options such as volunteering, work exchanges, and cultural exchanges.

Moreover, by joining Worldpackers, individuals can find unique experiences like teaching languages, assisting in sustainable projects, or even working in hostels or eco-farms. This platform encourages travellers to step outside their comfort zones, embrace new challenges, and build meaningful connections with locals and fellow travellers.

Not only do participants gain valuable skills and knowledge, but they also contribute to the local community, fostering sustainable development and cross-cultural understanding. With Worldpackers, every adventure becomes an opportunity to create unforgettable memories, expand horizons, and create a positive impact in different corners of the world.

#4 HelpStay International Volunteering Stays

HelpStay International Volunteering Stays offers an exciting avenue for individuals seeking immersive travel experiences and meaningful connections. With HelpStay, adventurers can embark on a variety of volunteering opportunities around the world, ranging from organic farming and animal care to eco-lodge management and community projects.

Secondly, this platform connects volunteers with hosts who provide accommodation and meals in exchange for their help and expertise. By participating in HelpStay, volunteers not only contribute to local initiatives but also gain hands-on experience, learn new skills, and engage with diverse cultures.

Whether it’s working on a sustainable farm in Ireland or assisting in a school in Thailand, HelpStay opens doors to unforgettable adventures where personal growth and cultural exchange take centre stage. With HelpStay, volunteers can make a positive impact, create lifelong memories, forge connections that transcend borders and enrich their understanding of the world.

So, why choose international volunteering? Where are you headed next?

Surely, an International volunteering program is not just about exploring new destinations; it’s about making a positive impact, becoming part of something greater than yourself, and shaping your worldview in a more positive way.

Last but not least, by choosing international volunteering, you embark on a journey that offers personal growth, cultural immersion, and the opportunity to contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable world.

Nishad Kinhikar Founder & Editor-In-Chief

Hi, I am Nishad Kinhikar, an avid theatre enthusiast and a passionate traveller. I decided to create VeryFirstTale with the aim of inspiring my fellow readers, friends, and family to explore the world around you by enjoying every bit of your life. Through my blog, I aim to not only share my personal travel stories but also to spotlight the incredible marvels of the Marathi theatre. My passion for theatre and travel is rooted in the unforgettable moments both can create. Join me on my journey and see where it takes you.

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