Volunteer in Chile

I’m a student at Cary high school. I’m from Cary, North Carolina, USA.

I chose to volunteer in chile to help the school in there attempts to become a more bilingual population. I wanted to practice my Spanish as rigorously as I could and I had been informed that Chile is notorious for its Spanish being more complex.

The host family was very nice and I found it very surprising how alike we were in terms of political and social views. I was able to have several discussions with them about how the politics in Chile were similar to those in the United States.

One thing I found difficult was learning how to use the public transportation. Me and Adrienne would spend up to and hour in the cold mornings searching for a “taxi-colectivo” that wasn’t full. Not having air conditioning was another thing I had to get used to.

I recommend that other volunteers pack warmer clothes. Its usually 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature doesn’t change much throughout the week. During the week ends I would recommend going to places like isla damas. Volunteers should really take advantage of the days they have off.

Volunteering in Chile

My accommodations were very pleasing and I was very satisfied. Silvia, our host mom was a very good cook and I was always looking forward to what she had prepared for us. I loved her rice. I’m not a fan of fish but Silvia made the best fried fish I have ever had. I never felt like I was in danger so I don’t have anything to complain about when it comes to my security. My host family was amazing and I didn’t miss my family at home since I had them for company and they made me feel comfortable in my new home.

My local coordinator, Vilma was amazing. She made sure we had things to do on our days off. I didn’t really feel the need to ask her for any assistance, but I was confident that if I needed anything that I could depend on her.