When I first came to Ottawa for Orientation I immediately noticed the cultural differences. The buildings are huge and very well structured. I have a whole new idea of how busy and how much is always going on with all the people in a big city. I was amazed at what can be accomplished. I couldn’t have imagined how big this city is; even though I know for others it didn’t seem big.

Here is a picture from Orientation, when we were all just starting to meet each other – both Canadian and International participants. The picture is of our Orientation camp site in Ottawa.

I have met so many people with so many different cultures. The NYA staff and facilitators have worked so hard to get us to where we are. With this program you don’t just do volunteering! You gain experience socializing, working, and managing your own responsibilities – with support and help from the NYA staff, your host family, your host buddy, and family back home.

I suggest anyone that who is looking to have a great experience should sign up for this program, it has helped me a lot.