LeadAbroad’s goal is to give back to our students, creating the opportunity of a lifetime for them abroad. We are lucky enough to share the joy of travel with students each year, many of whom want to pay it forward and leave a positive impact on the communities they get to explore. Samantha Herpich, a 1st year student at Ole Miss on our LEAD Cape Town program, wanted to do just and serve the local community in South Africa.
From a young age Samantha was passionate about helping others and found it important to find a study abroad program that would allow her to make the most out her experience, and through LeadAbroad she found just that! “Ever since I was young I have always wanted to make a difference in the world- to try and always leave a place better than I found it. Service is such an impactful way to help those in need and try to change the community for the better.” Samantha loved the variety of service work that she was able to participate in. Whether it was working with local students or entrepreneurs in the community, she felt inspired each day being able to impact a new group of people!
The service not only impacts the area in which students volunteer at, but it also stays with them and becomes a crucial part of who they are. Samantha was touched by while working alongside the youth in Cape Town, being able to bond with and inspire them to be the best versions of themselves they can be as they grow. “Volunteering at Bokmakierie Primary School on Youth Day was one of the most memorable days of service I was a part of! I spent the day with a few girls who had such bright and bubbly personalities. These girls shared their fears and hopes with me. This was my last day of service which made saying goodbye very difficult. The connections I made that day are forever engraved in my mind and I will never forget them!” While short-lived, these bonds mean so much to our students, those we serve, and the staff at LeadAbroad knowing that we leave our mark on every program location we venture to.
Samantha was able to learn more about herself and what service meant to her which she’ll be able to carry for years to come. “I learned how just showing up for someone can make all the difference in the world! The looks on the kids' faces when we showed up are unforgettable!” She shares that service has become a fundamental part of who she is and hopes to continue helping others in any way she can, no matter where she is in life.
We truly are so proud of each and every student that comes on our programs ready to not only improve themselves but the ones around them. Thank you for letting us share your story, Samantha! To create amazing memories just like she did, please join our interest form below! See you soon, future travelers.
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