Donald McLellan, 34
Himachal Pradesh Teaching Programme, India
 Himachal Pradesh Teaching Project
I was working as a Construction Engineer/Manager for a large company, I had always wanted to travel and experience other cultures but I felt that starting work and building a career was more important. By the time I turned 30 I started to question if my chosen career was right for me and the desire to travel arose again.
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I wanted to do something for other people that needed it most giving a rewarding experience in return. There were many barriers to leaving, namely approaching my boss, leaving my flat and life behind and I also felt that at 34 I was a little late to go off and see the world!
I chose the Himachal Pradesh programme due to its location in the foothills of the Himalayas and I knew India would provide a rich cultural experience. |
The enthusiasm from the GYFGU travel advisor definitely spurred me to book as an added bonus my boss was very positive and offered me a sabbatical with the opportunity to return to work in 12 months time.
My volunteer project was teaching English in a local school to children aged 3-8 years old. It was very challenging since the children didn't speak any English and my Hindi was still basic after only a 2-hour language class. Furthermore I had no previous teaching experience so it was certainly in at the deep end.
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The schools were very basic and teaching aids were virtually non-existent, I produced much of the materials myself bringing out my creative talents!
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The children were very happy and appreciative but like all kids they were also quite mischievous and a handful at times.
In addition to the teaching element we also undertook some improvements at the schools such as painting signs, whitewashing and providing additional blackboards.
I found the experience to be extremely worthwhile and rewarding. In spite of my lack of teaching experience I felt that I had made good progress during my time and certainly provided a good grounding from which future volunteers can build on. |
Himachal Pradesh Teaching Project
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