Exciting. Engaging. Friendly. This is the idea of a service trip to Thailand. Olivia Dogic (right), a student at East Leyden, shares her unforgettable experience. Olivia was inspired by her love of animals: “I love elephants and was really drawn by the experience of being able to see them in the wild. I also thought it would be a great experience to travel the world at such a young age for such a great price.” Things in Thailand were really different from home: “It was so hot and humid there. As soon as you step outside you begin to sweat everywhere, and some places do not usually have air conditioning. A lot of places also use squatting toilets and do not provide toilet paper, so we had to carry our own. They also drive on the left side of the road so it was so scary when we first got on the bus. The people there are so friendly to everyone despite a majority of them living in poverty. They were all so happy to give to others,” says Olivia as she smiles.
She continues, “It was the most impactful trip of my life. We got to experience so many aspects of Thai culture. The ruins and temples were all so beautiful, and the people were all so friendly.” She explains how it works: “The first project was the ‘Food for Thought Project’ at the Sanpatong Experiential Educational Center. We got to stay at a camp site similar to a sleep away camp. When we weren’t doing the project we got to have team bonding, rock climb, archery, and play different sports. I made some great memories and friendships. During the project, we made mushroom bags that provided a sustainable food source for a small boarding school in Thailand. The school was allotted 30 cents per day per student for all 3 meals. The kids were so kind and grateful for our work. They were some of the most hardworking and obedient kids I have ever met. They did not once complain about the heat or having to do all the cleaning around the school. Despite our language barrier they still were able to play with us.” According to Olivia, “The kids at the school have a new protein to add to their daily meals to provide them nutrients and help them grow. They will also be able to sell their extra mushrooms in the local village to raise money for new uniforms and school supplies.” Overall she wants to thank, ”Mr. Leu and Ms. M for picking me to go on this trip and for planning it.”