Volunteer Abroad

Welcome to the VSLC's volunteer abroad information page. The purpose of this site is to provide basic information regarding volunteering abroad, including questions to ask about volunteering abroad, things to consider, and possible programs. Volunteering abroad has become popular among UT students. If you are interested in volunteering abroad, we hope this information is useful. We also encourage you to visit the UT Study Abroad Office

• How do I know if volunteering abroad is right for me?
• How does volunteering abroad differ from studying/interning abroad?
• What types of Volunteer programs are there?

How do I know if volunteering abroad is right for me?

It is important to remember that the service you will be doing will serve a community that is vastly different from the one you come from. If you are open to experiencing new things, learning from other cultures, and embracing foreign customs, then such an experience will benefit you as an individual.

However only you can know for sure if such an experience is appropriate for you. Questions to ask yourself:

• What is my motivation for wanting to volunteer abroad?
• How will this experience benefit my education, future, career goal?
• How do I expect to contribute/give to the community I will be serving?

How does volunteering abroad differ from studying/interning abroad?

Most volunteer positions are not paid. In addition, most volunteer programs have a fee associated with them. Unlike studying/interning aboard, the project often is unrelated to your specific field of study and may require physical work and/or outdoor activity. It is important to remember that the community you will be working with has specific needs and the work you will be helping with will fit those specific needs.

What types of Volunteer programs are there?

Work Camps
Independent Programs (not affiliated with the University)
Federal Programs (such as Peace Corps)

To find more programs please visit
The College of Liberal Arts Career Services