Rebecca, Conservation Volunteer in Tanzania

Rebecca, a Conservation Volunteer in Tanzania, spent several weeks working with local researchers on numerous projects and educational initiatives. We asked her to share some highlights from her time abroad.

Tell us a bit about yourself!

My name is Rebecca, I’m 24 years old, and I’m in my final year of Clinical Psychology studies. I’m deeply interested in understanding human behavior and wellbeing, and I’m always looking for experiences that help me grow both personally and professionally.

What did you do during your Conservation Volunteering program?

During my volunteering experience, our group focused on monitoring dolphins and protecting them from overtourism. We also collected data to assess the health of coral reefs. Our work was important because marine ecosystems are extremely delicate, and human activity can significantly impact them. By monitoring dolphin behavior and coral health, we contributed to conservation efforts and helped promote more sustainable tourism practices.

What motivated you to choose this volunteering program in Tanzania?

What really motivated me was the opportunity to spend so much time in the water and observe marine life up close. Being able to experience the ocean from that perspective felt incredibly special. I wanted to fully immerse myself in nature and be part of something meaningful.

Any favorite memories from your time in Tanzania?

One special part of the experience was simply being in the water every day, observing dolphins in their natural habitat. Those moments made me feel incredibly connected to nature.

What will you take with you into your future career?

I learned how to adapt to new environments and new people very quickly. Living closely with others from different backgrounds helped me become more open-minded and flexible. On a personal level, I learned to live more freely, without constantly worrying about being judged by others. That sense of freedom is something I will carry with me.

How has your time volunteering in Tanzania impacted your future plans?

This experience has definitely inspired me to pursue another opportunity like this in the future. It reminded me how important it is to step outside of your routine, challenge yourself, and grow through real-life experiences.