Grant Recipient Essays
Upon completion of their program, InterExchange Foundation grant recipients submit a written report, describing how the grant allowed them to gain international understanding through working abroad. Read what some of them had to say...
Shannon HatmakerVolunteer in Tanzania When I was in elementary school, I fell in love with the history, culture, and wildlife of Africa. I decided then that I would spend my life educating others about the natural history of this amazing, and seemingly distant, continent. As a child, I truly listened when Jane Goodall said, “You can change the world.” I aspired to do just that, to dedicate my life to promoting understanding and appreciation of all aspects of nature and societies. |
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Dana ArakawaHow do I begin to describe my two months studying, volunteering, and living in Peru? I came to Peru without clear expectations, excited and nervous about my first time being abroad on my own. As I look back on my experience of the Volunteer in Peru program, I am filled with joy and appreciation for the countless priceless memories I made, all thanks to the generosity of the InterExchange Foundation. |
Trent MikesellWhen I stepped off the plane in Lima, Peru, I learned something about myself that I had never before realized: I am a lot more naïve about the world than I thought. I have never before thought that I was an Idaho hick, but I felt like one there. |
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Danita WaltonMy chosen assignment was the after school care of nine children infected with HIV. The names of the 7 boys were Santosh, Shanku, Pawan, Krishna, Rahul, Mahesh, Milroy, and the two girls Sakshi and Laxmi. The bond that I formed with those children is one I will never forget. |
