I always wanted to do a humanitarian trip. I know several people from the association so I talked to them and I decided to do it. A friend in my class was also interested so I told myself “why not?” : traveling with someone you know is always funnier. The decision seemed so natural because I really wanted to do it. Of course, you have to get prepared; you are going far away from your family, even if it’s not too long. In order to stay relax, I talk about it with my friends. The psychological preparation was easy for me, I was going with a friend and that was quite comforting.

According to the fact that I made my civic service at UNIS VERS LE SPORT (the local level of UVS International) I found quite natural to do this trip and it brought a consistency to my missions and professional experience. I didn’t have any specific expectations except discovering a new country, a new culture or to raise my awareness. It was my first solidary trip and above all, it was the first time I took the plane. I didn’t know how it was going to happen but I knew I was well-surrounded and accompanied. So I said “why not?" and I started !

Every morning, pupils were coming and forming a well-organized line. They were dancing to a traditionnal music and I found this so beautiful, it inspired me nothing but respect and humility. It really impressed me.

Memories are the best thing I brought back with me. Children gave me a small bracelet at the end-of-the-trip ceremony, I still have it and every time I wear it, it reminds me my whole trip. It’s the only material thing I brought back. This Sri Lanka adventure has impacted the way I appreciate little things in life because I realized I was living in luxury: in daily life I have a bed with sheets on, my toilets, my shower... It really opened my mind and I’m less superficial than I used to be. I think this experience really brought new values to me.

This adventure was magical, beautiful and mainly emotional.

Sophie M, 21 years old, Strasbourg area