Colin in Curaçao

Participant

Colin

Programme

Internship

Country

🇨🇼 Curaçao

Duration

6 weeks

Short bio

I’m 18 and I study at CIOS Zuidwest. Alongside my studies I work at a gym and a shoe shop. My hobbies are mainly sport and going out with friends.

How satisfied were you with the support from Holland?

I’m more than happy with the support I had from Holland! Whenever I had a question, it was usually answered the same day, despite the time difference!

My story

“Teaching in Curaçao was one of the highlights for me. I taught very different groups of people, from primary school children to even people in a prison. It was exactly that diversity that made teaching so special and such a learning experience.”

Colin · internship in Curaçao

Before I left for Curaçao, I found it quite nerve-racking. It was the first time I’d gone abroad on my own. I didn’t really know what to expect and it felt like a really big step.

Once I arrived in Curaçao, those nerves disappeared almost straight away. It quickly became a fantastic experience! I got to know loads of lovely people and really enjoyed my time there.

Teaching in Curaçao was one of the highlights for me. I taught very different groups of people, from primary school children to even people in a prison. It was exactly that diversity that made teaching so special and such a learning experience. Every group was different, so each time it was a new challenge.

Besides teaching, there was of course plenty of time for fun. Together with the other people in the house, I did loads of great activities and made wonderful memories. We laughed a lot, explored the island together and had a really amazing time.

Looking back, I’m so glad I took the step of going to Curaçao on my own. What felt nerve-racking beforehand turned out to be one of the best experiences of my life. Not only did I learn a lot during my internship, I also met new people, got to know myself better and, above all, made loads of wonderful memories!

What advice would you like to give future interns and volunteers?

My most important advice is: go for it and don’t let your nerves hold you back! It’s completely normal to feel nervous about going abroad on your own. I felt the same, but in the end there was no need for those nerves at all.

Be open to new people and experiences and try to get as much as you can out of your internship. Dare to step out of your comfort zone and don’t be too quick to say no to something new. It’s often the unexpected moments that end up giving you the best memories.

I’d also say: above all, enjoy it! Make time to explore the island, join in with activities and connect with the people around you. Your internship is important, of course, but the experiences and friendships you gain there are what make it extra special in the end.