1. You appreciate where you come from.
While I loved Peru, I definitely missed America towards the end of my trip. We were constantly eating the same food, the bus system was crazy and traveling all the time was tiring. I missed not needing wifi to contact my family. I also missed pizza, of course.
2. You become immersed in a culture completely different from your own.
While staying Peru, I stayed with a host family. We followed typical Peruvian culture in which we only had breakfast and a big lunch. We also tried Peruvian food including their delicacy, Guinea Pig. We were taught traditional dances in Puono and learned about the immense Incan culture. We basically lived like Peruvians for two weeks.
3. You learn to face your fears.
I am terrified of heights and I had to face my fear during this trip on the many hikes we went on. One that I was particularly terrified of was the hike up Wayna Picchu which is a mountain at the top of Machu Picchu. It was another 1,180 feet above Machu Picchu which is already 7,950 ft up. Only 1% of people go to Machu Picchu do this hike and it was definitely terrifying, but ultimately worth the trek. By facing my fear, I gained confidence in myself and my abilities.
4. You learn about hard work.
In four days, we re-painted the boys and girl’s bathrooms, created games on the black top for the children, and created a new classroom for the kids. We also helped in the classroom with teaching the kids some English. We also gave the school enough money to buy a fridge and a stovetop.
5. You make friends that last a life time.
After being with a group of people for two weeks you become very close. I faced some of my biggest fears and challenges during these two weeks and these were the people who helped me get through it. You form a special bond with these people that can’t be changed.
6. You feel a sense of accomplishment.
After fixing a school and hiking every day I felt like I had accomplished more in those two weeks than I have in my whole life. It felt good to give back to a community that has so little.
7. You learn about the benefits of giving back.
On the last day at the school, the families threw us a party. The kids put on a show for us and they presented us with hats as gifts. It was nice to see how grateful these families were and showed us how much we truly helped.
If you’re interested in helping others and exploring other cultures, a service trip is the way to go!
XOXO,
Melissa Iaria