Hanna McElroy is an undergraduate at the  University of Dakota studying political science, criminal justice and international studies. She is very involved in her community, and is currently working in her state’s legislature. Prior to her UBELONG placement she had never been abroad, but had always wanted to do so. In January she volunteered for one week in the “forest and marine conservation”  Volunteer Abroad in Ecuador's Coastal Forest with a team of classmates. We are pleased to now introduce you to this delightful young star.

What motivated you to seek a volunteer opportunity in the Coastal Forest?
I applied for a passport this summer, with no destination in mind but determined to go somewhere! When the alternative break trip with UBELONG came up, I thought that it would be the perfect opportunity to go abroad and help out with a great cause.

I have always liked South America; I fell in love with the vibrant culture while studying the country in my high school and college Spanish classes. This has led me to study some of the political and human rights issues in Ecuador. I also have interest in joining the Peace Corps after I graduate, so thought this would be a great opportunity to experience volunteering internationally.

From what you observed during your experience, what were the three most important characteristics of a successful international volunteer?
First, be open-minded. For a lot of people, it’s hard to immerse themselves in a different culture and not make snap judgments about different cultural norms. For example, when we were heading to the reserve and coming down the mountain we saw children with no shoes. Some people thought it was because they were poor, but in fact it’s just the way kids are brought up there. So, you need to approach the experience with fresh eyes and not those of a foreigner with preconceptions.

A solid positive attitude is also important. You’re going into a different culture, and I felt that my peers who had the best experience were those who understood that Ecuador is very different from the US and having a “volunteer” attitude, instead of a “tourist” attitude, is vital. We had talked about that before arriving as a team and with Cedric [the team’s UBELONG Mentor], but I think it’s important not to forget it when you arrive and are overwhelmed with how different everything is.

Finally, a strong stomach! Coming from the US your stomach is not accustomed to the local food, so getting stomach aches is fairly common. It’s a pain and, especially if you’re only going for a week, can make or break your trip.

What did you learn about yourself during your experience?
The experience was incredible and put my life goals and perspectives into perspective. I saw the local people work hard every day; performing backbreaking labor just to get by. I realized how blessed I am and also how much I want to continue learning about the world and how other people live.

Before this trip I was interested in international work, but now I see that I want to make it my career. It motivated me to learn more and I’m very interested in pursuing issues like human rights and international politics in Ecuador and beyond. I’m already hoping to volunteer abroad again soon!

Click on the pictures above to enlarge them. Photos courtesy of Hanna McElroy.           

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