DO IT. Volunteering opened my eyes to a different way of life and added something unique to my study abroad experience. I feel like I have left lasting impressions on the kids, and they on me. I have gained language improvement, an increased level of personal patience and persistence, and a handful of inside jokes with the beautiful, loving children at Cor that I will remember and carry with me forever. It pains me to leave them.

Allison Lipp, UCLA

"I can't help but think that I'm taking more away from this experience than the children, as working with them has taught me so much about myself and what I'm looking to get out of life."

Amanda Foster, University of Florida

"The kids taught me how to open my heart and to just love and be loved without reservation. Being on the receiving end of such unconditional, genuine love has been an incredible experience."

Amanda Foster, University of Florida

"Studying abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina was one of best experiences I've ever had. I would recommend anyone considering studying abroad to do it. I can guarantee you will not regret it. I still keep in touch with my host family and I became close with my friends I met there, most of whom I still communicate with. I also would recommend anyone interested in volunteering through the ELAP program to also do it. I learned several things from my trip- about myself and the Argentine culture, among other things. Having made this trip makes me want to study abroad again and travel."

Jessica Ibarra, University of Pittsburgh

I have learned more than I ever thought I would. Now I feel confident with my Spanish as well!

Amanda Schwartz, University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh

Do it. You will meet some awesome people and get to see how things work in another country and another culture, the behind-the-scenes look.

Andrew Luckett, University of Kentucky

I got to interact with a lot of patients, doctors, and nurses from whom I learned a lot about hospitals, medicine, and patient interaction.

Andrew Luckett, University of Kentucky

I have enjoyed the feeling of independence in another country as well as the opportunity to experience the culture, daily life, and people of another country.

Julie Hetcko, University of Nebraska, Lincoln

Great experience and opportunity for personal growth. Thank you!

Karla Ippolito, Arizona State University

Peru rocks! ISA rocks! The entire time here I could only think about how lucky I was to be experiencing so many wonderful and incredible things that I know I would have never experienced elsewhere. This isn't just a study abroad program this is an experience abroad!

Claudia Severino, New Jersey City University

On study abroad you can't expect things to turn out exactly as you planned, because you were never expecting an experience this life-changing. The kind, easy-going people, the passionate culture, beautiful excursions, and helpful staff made my experience with ISA in Lima, Peru, unforgettable. As my host-mom, Marilu says, "Nada es imposible en Peru!"

Linsi Phelps, University of Tennessee, Knoxville

I enjoyed my time here in Lima; I have learned so much about not only Lima, but about the world, and most of all about myself. This experience has changed my outlook on various topics... I feel like I have changed so much in the last 7 months for the better, and I feel that i am better prepared for the next stage of my life due to what I have learned here.

Rebecca Bigler, Arizona State University, ASU

The city is small enough to navigate by foot, allowing you to gain an intimate understanding of the local landscape and culture. Sandstone colored buildings fill the city, earning Salamanca the nickname of La Ciudad Dorada (The Golden City)

I have always had a heart for helping people, and I knew when I arrived in Sevilla I wanted to be able to contribute something to this community, however big or small. We help the kids understand healthy foods and simple hygiene. It really depends on the day if they are going to be open to me or not. But they can also be open to conversations and smiles. It's always worth it to me to see the kids smile. Just try to show them a little love in their lives. It's definitely a rewarding experience.

Mitzi Howard, Lewis-Clark State College