This past summer, I had the chance to volunteer with an awesome organization. Though not a program for only Georgetown students, Learning Enterprises gave me the summer of a lifetime. The program focuses on teaching English around the globe; every summer, over 150 volunteers are sent to more than 10 countries on 4 separate continents. The best part is, it is completely student run and works solely off of donations and sponorship.
For 7 weeks, I had the opportunity teach English in rural villages situated in Hungary and Slovakia. Throughout two separate teaching sessions, I lived with host families and got the chance to experience Hungarian and Slovak culture firsthand. I taught three class each day for children, university aged students, and adults. Their willingness and desire to learn English was incredible; it truly made the program a culture exchange. I shared my life and language with them, but I also learned and received so much in return.
This year, I return to Learning Enterprises as the Hungary/Slovakia program director where I am in charge of assembling a team of 17 volunteers and leading them to Eastern Europe this upcoming summer. I cannot wait to get back to the area and visit my families and friends. The organization is open to all college students who are interested in international volunteerism and a English teaching. (http:www.learningenterprises.org for more information).
Ridge Blanchard
COL '11
Lafayete, LA
