We just had to share this beautifully written email that was shared with us by one of our new students. We LOVE our alumni!
I’m so glad that Global Routes gave you my email! I went on the Belize trip this past summer as a Freshman and it was easily one of the most incredible experiences I’ve ever had. The program is set up perfectly. It starts you off with an orientation, which is at a place called Clarissa Falls. Clarissa Falls alone was spectacular. There is a decent amount of down time which allows you to create friendships and bonds with the other kids. We also got to go on a few trips though, such as hiking to the Mayan ruins and then tubing back down the river (so fun). Since this time allowed me to get more comfortable with all the kids, it made the idea of staying with a host family a lot less intimidating. I bet youre wondering about the host families and I personally loved mine. I stayed in the most rustic house out of the group and although I did miss a running toilet from time to time, having that experience changed my perspective on the world drastically and I wouldn’t have wished for anything different. I honestly miss the cooking of my host mother so much! I worked on the school during my stay and although it was hard, it was rewarding. Plus, you’re with the entire group and a lot of times the host kids will come too so there is never a dull moment. We had to rush to finish the mural which was stressful as well but all you want to do is finish it for the community. One of my host cousins, who is about 7, said “we are going to have the most beautiful school in the world.” If that doesn’t make your heart melt, I don’t know what would. Of course leaving the community is filled with tears but the trip finished with a stay on an island called Caye Caulker, which brightened everyones mood upon arrival. It’s the perfect way to end the trip, spending the last few days on adventures with the friends you have made. I believe the best day of my entire life was one of the days on the island which I spend on three different snorkeling adventures, including night snorkeling and swimming with sharks and rays, and a visit to another island. When you eventually have to leave it’s difficult, but I think that only shows how impactful the trip was.I know all of that was a mouthful but I 100% recommend this program and this trip. I was able to see an incredible amount of things between the different culture and the wildlife of Belize that so many other people will never have the opportunity to experience. I also met the most incredible people, both in the community and in the group. I have since visited one of the girls who lives a couple hours from me and plan on seeing another this coming summer. The memories you make will easily stay with you and personally, I think I left being a better person. Please feel free to ask me ANY questions you have!Sent from my iPhone-Belize Alumna ’14
