What if you don’t go on exchange?

Chances are, you might be missing out on memories that would stick with you for the rest of your life. Or, you would miss out on one of your dreams. The dream is to explore the country you always wanted to visit.

Meet Barbara, a young volunteer from Mexico who decided to go on exchange with us.
We hope you find some inspiration from her story and face any doubts you have right now. 

From the moment the pandemic of 2019 put a parenthesis on my dreams, I knew that my desire to explore the world and contribute to it would not fade. In 2022, when the doors of the world opened again, my heartbeat to the rhythm of an opportunity: volunteering with AIESEC in Lima, Peru. Without hesitation, I contacted AIESEC in Mexico and embarked on an adventure that would change my life.

The process was full of efficiency and excitement. Each step, from application to selection, was a testament to AIESEC’s dedication to connecting young people with transformative experiences. With an open mind and an adventurous spirit, I landed in Peru, ready to absorb every nuance of its rich culture.
The AIESEC Managers, both in Mexico and Peru, were beacons of support, guiding me through each stage of my journey. But it was my Host Family who wove a net of warmth and hospitality around my experience. Their kindness and understanding helped me overcome challenges, not only in my project but in my personal growth.

Along the way, I found kindred spirits: other AIESEC exchange participants. Together, we shared laughter and learning, forming bonds that transcend borders. My project at a local NGO gifted me with new learning every day, each one like a jacket woven with threads of hope and change.

One of my most moving experiences was my visit to the Afro-Peruvian Museum. My guide, with a passion that resonated in every word, took me on a journey through the history and legacy of Afro-Peru. The tears that sprang from my eyes were not of sadness but of a deep connection with the stories that surrounded me.

Peruvian cuisine, with flavors that dance on the plate, and landscapes that are a feast for the eyes, make Lima a city of endless wonders. But beyond the metropolis, I found natural treasures like Machu Picchu and the Humantay Lagoon. Each step on these challenging treks was a step towards greater confidence and independence.

The rituals of gratitude to Pachamama, Mother Earth, taught me the value of gratitude and respect for our planet. AIESEC not only gave me the opportunity to travel but to grow and connect with the world in a way I never imagined possible.            

If you are looking for an experience that challenges you, inspires you, and transforms you, I invite you to explore the opportunities that AIESEC has for you. Because more than an exchange, it is a journey towards the discovery of yourself and the world that awaits you with open arms.

Are you ready to start your own adventure with AIESEC? Sign up and let one of our managers guide you towards the best opportunity for you!

 

Story written by Edgar Romero from AIESEC in Mexico.