“Every person can make a difference, and every person should try”
-John F. Kennedy-
Volunteers dedicate their time and ability to the betterment of society. It not only helps others but also be helpful to themselves. One can get a chance to interact with different communities while making bonds with new people and gaining new friends for life. Also, it will be a lifetime experience to achieve their future objectives successfully.
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- Let’s introduce yourself Amith.
I’m Amith Schulz from AIESEC in Germany. I study Biology at Heidelberg University in Germany. I love to do Climbing, Soccer, and Guitar. I’m here in Sri Lanka as an Exchange Participant for the project Sea Shore and I’m happy to be here.
- Tell us, how did you get to know about AIESEC?
I was interested in taking part in an Exchange Programme. So, I found AIESEC through a recommendation from my University about opportunities to travel abroad.
- What inspired you to volunteer for an AIESEC project?
I always had an interest in getting to know the different cultures and the people of different countries. Also, I wanted to participate in a project with goals that I stand for. They inspired me to take an initiative in volunteering for an AIESEC project.
- What made you choose the project Sea Shore?
I am very interested in Nature and Biology since I study Biology at the University. So I wanted to choose something which goes in the same direction. The project Sea Shore promised to make a difference and help clean the coast in many different ways. I enjoyed the time with Sea Turtles at beaches in Sri Lanka.
- How did you enjoy the experience of completing the tasks you’ve been doing under the project?
Definitely, the tasks were both valuable and fun. I got the chance to visit a Turtle Hatchery and to see how the wounded turtles were rehabilitated and how the newborns were protected. I had a great opportunity to meet Professor Terny, a Marine Biologist from the University of Ruhuna, and other different people from Nature Conservatory Organizations. Especially, I want to highlight the interaction with other AIESECers. It was a complete experience to be with them and have fun.
- How was your overall experience in Sri Lanka with AIESEC in University of Ruhuna?
The experience was really good and I always felt looked after and never felt alone and got the chance to explore the country freely. There were a lot of different tasks and AIESEC in University of Ruhuna organized the whole project for me and made it possible for me to meet various professionals in the field. It was lots of fun hanging out with the AIESECers, even outside of the projects for swimming or tours, like for example to South Point, “The Point of Dondra”.
Apart from the project AIESEC in University of Ruhuna organized several interesting events to give us a memorable experience. The South Fest is such a kind of cultural festival held along with the New Year in Sri Lanka. It was amazing to participate in traditional games and taste the traditional sweetmeats of Sri Lanka. So I was able to spend an unforgettable time with AIESEC in Ruhuna.
- How did you adapt to working in a foreign country like Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is very different to my usual working surrounding. At first, I guess there was a co-cultural shock when I entered Sri Lanka with certain challenges in getting to know people. There are lots of differences in mentality and how things are generally done. However, this didn’t bother me at all. And they were quickly overcome with the help of AIESECers and they guided me throughout the time. I enjoyed being part of the project from day one and my enthusiasm grew up gradually.
- Do you think this experience helped you to be a better version of yourself?
Sri Lanka as a country is extremely impressive. Its nature, culture, and people are very significant. It made me rethink certain aspects of life. Although I study Biology mainly focusing on laboratory work, working out in the field with animals and plants, I felt it is something new to be experienced. It helped me find a more focused outlook on my future work career.
- How was your experience with foreign colleagues?
The other volunteers are great people and I enjoyed spending time with them very much. Especially at weekends when we had free time from the project we traveled together to see the amazing places in Sri Lanka. I feel that we are having a closer connection when doing things together. Definitely, they all were very nice people. I hope to meet them again sometime.
- What are the most unforgettable experiences you had throughout the time you stayed in Sri Lanka?
I got the chance to climb Adam’s Peak in my last days in Sri Lanka. Adams Peak is a must-see. The moment I will never forget is the simple train ride from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. It is one of the most beautiful views I have ever caught. There is lots of fun to have with other volunteers as well. It is a thing to be experienced by all.
- How would you recommend AIESEC in University of Ruhuna to someone who wishes to volunteer in Sri Lanka?
I would definitely recommend doing a project with AIESEC in University of Ruhuna because they are doing a great job. You meet many nice and helpful people; living with them is another experience. I recommend AIESEC in University of Ruhuna not only for the project but also because of the support you will get from AIESECers.
- Is there any message that you’d like to give to other young volunteer who is interested in volunteering?
All the projects out here are full of value and fun. It’s normal to have unusuality at very first but when time goes by you will surely love to be in Sri Lanka. Always keep open-minded if you are willing to experience yourself and Take every chance you get. If you feel like doing something don’t hesitate!
The conversation we had with Amith was interesting and we realized that he has got the most out of the project. We as AIESEC in University of Ruhuna feel a humble pride in being able to deliver a better experience to our Exchange Participants. A great Thank must be credited to Amith for giving his valuable time and sharing the experience with us. We all wish Amith to have the best in his future.
AIESEC will always offer great opportunities to escape from the ordinary and acquire new destinations in life. We invite you to grab them and join hands with us.
Wow🤩🤩❤️❤️