Volunteer Stories  |  Catherine

It wasn't a difficult decision for me to choose to volunteer in Mexico as I have had an interest in the country for several years. My first trip was to Mexico City in 2005, only a week long and I knew then that I would be returning. For many years I have wanted to spend my summers volunteering in other countries, but the time was never right.

Over the past several years, I have had a growing interest in teaching English as a Second Language and an interest in Mexico and the culture. With summers free and my children now grown, it was time for me to investigate the possibilities of teaching English in Mexico. I chose to volunteer with Travel to Teach for several reasons. First, I must admit, was the reasonable cost of the program, it fit my student budget.

Second, I have been wanting to visit Veracruz and because Jalapa is the capital of the state, a cultural center, and a university city, the location was perfect for me. The Anthropology Museum with its awesome displays is located here, the second best anthropology museum in the country. University students and Mexican English teachers, who are eager to practice English, want to engage in conversations. An extra bonus for me in choosing Jalapa is the mild summer climate. It was a relief to escape the 95 degree heat in my town!

A third reason for chosing Travel to Teach, was due to Adriana's quick replies whenever I e-mailed her questions before coming. This is an area that other students had noted was lacking when working with other organizations, the lack of communication beforehand and not knowing what to expect. I always had a reply from the organization within 24 hours and this was the deciding factor in choosing this organization to volunteer with.

I was happy to have several different locations to teach with groups of 10-15 children in each. All of the children are on basic English levels and I learned from them as they learned from me. You do not realize how much of another language you do not understand until you are with people that only speak that language! Most of the children are eager to learn and eager to help and please. It was hard at times to leave them after classes because they would want one more wave, one more hug, or one more kiss. They were always interested in seeing pictures that I had brought with me of my home and family and they especially liked the pictures of the snow.

I tell people that there are three necessary things to bring with you when you come to Mexico. You need a sense of humor, flexibility, and good walking shoes. Once you come to Mexico you will understand why these things are needed. I spent my free time in the evenings chatting with business owners, people watching in the park and window shopping. I have a list of all the things that I want to buy next year when I return, especially the beautiful hand made leather boots! I have collected many e-mails with promises to stay in touch and I have been told to remember that I have friends here in Jalapa. There are those here that have found a place into my heart, Memo, Javier, Olga, Elsa, Marisol, Alexandro and family, Porfilia and family. I will be looking forward to my new adventures here in Jalapa with Travel to Teach next summer.