Vladina Chira

Marketing, Advertising and PR - BA (Hons) 

Vladina went to Mexico to volunteer in community centres, schools and soup kitchens.

Challenging, but rewarding

"My participation at the International Travel Scholarship Project through Birmingham City Business School was one of the greatest experiences I’ve ever had.

The project offered me the unique opportunity to travel to South America to one of the countries I’ve always wanted to visit: Mexico. I volunteered for 2 weeks,  working with kids with ages ranging from 1 to 18. The volunteering projects were challenging but very rewarding, as I could see my work was appreciated and the children benefited from it."

Stunning

"I have improved core skills such as team work, communication and planning skills, as well as language skills, as I had the opportunity to speak Spanish."

"There were a lot of engaging activities we, as volunteers, had the chance to do in our free time that helped us discover the beauties of the Mexican culture. I visited stunning beaches, cenotes and various archaeological sites, including Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World."

"I have gained a lot of friends, both from the UK and Mexico, and unforgettable experiences that will stay with me forever."

Don't be afraid

"Make sure you are prepared for almost everything and you are very convinced you want to do it. Research the country and project you are going for and also the organization you are going with."

"Don’t be afraid to go somewhere far, where you’ve never been before. As long as you prepare for it and get things sorted in time, everything should be fine."

"Be prepared to work and represent your University and your country but also be prepared to have fun!!!"