Every year we are thrilled by the number of alumni who return for another VISIONS experience. Some like to continue their work from a previous summer in the same community where they already have deep connections. Others venture to a new destination to open their eyes to, volunteer for and connect with a new culture.

There is something profound and positive about settling into the daily life of another culture, accomplishing shared goals and participating in community-building. It’s what draws all of us to VISIONS.

To get specific, we asked why VISIONS Alumni return.

Emma

Programs: Montana Northern Cheyenne 2018 + Alaska 2019

“I enjoyed spending time with other like-minded young adults last summer & experiencing a new culture,” Emma said. “I decided to head to Alaska, because I’m interested in the differences between the native populations in Montana & Alaska, and because being in Alaska for a month sounds like a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

Savannah

Programs: Dominican Republic 2018 + 2019

“I enjoyed the day camp the most. I absolutely loved spending time with the kids, teaching classes and learning things in return. I wanted to go back to the DR, because I had such a great experience the first time and loved being able to actually make a difference. I have also been taking Spanish for a long time now but I’m not the best so Spanish immersion was a great way for me to practice, and the adults also helped which was awesome.”

Sophia

Programs: Peru 2018 + Ecuador & Galápagos 2019

“I loved forming bonds with the other kids, my leaders, community members, & especially the kids I met while working at the school in Peru.”

“I knew I wanted to do another Spanish Immersion program. When looking at the different types of service in a different location, I knew I wanted to be in another service location with the kids & in Ecuador, we are going to be working in a school. I am most excited about improving my Spanish even more. Last summer my Spanish reached a whole new level & I am excited to expand & grow as a speaker.”

Nick

Programs: Montana Blackfeet 2018 + Cambodia 2019

“What I enjoyed most about Montana was getting to learn, understand & experience the culture of the Blackfeet Nation. The reason I picked Cambodia was I’ve never been out of North America & wanted something that pushed my boundaries… to experience an even more interesting area of the world.”

Christine

Programs: Peru 2018 + Cambodia 2019

“I’d say something I enjoyed a lot was being immersed in the culture in Peru because it’s so different from where I live. I also loved all the people I met there.”

“Two things I’m excited about are meeting more amazing people & helping out with the community in Cambodia.”

Foster

Programs: Montana Blackfeet 2017 + 2019

“What I enjoyed most was getting to learn about Native American culture, talking to people on the reservation, & having the opportunity to attend a powwow, which was a whole new experience for me that I probably would’ve never gotten had I not done the program with Visions.”

“I decided to go back to Montana because I had such an amazing, unique & rustic experience there. I honestly really miss the ranch, backpacking & the way that it was all so unfamiliar to me. This summer I’m most excited about making new memories & meeting new people.”

Angie

Programs: Dominican Republic 2017 + British Virgin Islands 2019

“I love how I felt like I belonged in the DR, like we were family already. I really loved the “circle” activity, it got really deep sometimes & it was interesting to learn about other people’s lives.”

“I picked the BVI because I usually choose to go to Spanish speaking countries & I want to learn a whole new culture. I’m most excited to see what project we’ll be doing & also excited about the new group I will meet!”

Sierra

Programs: Nicaragua 2016 + Peru 2017 + Cambodia 2018 + Dominican Republic 2019

“I loved finally being surrounded by individuals my age who were equally passionate, determined, & concerned. I picked the DR because of the relationships Visions language immersion programs allow me to forge. I am so excited to be surrounded by all of my favorite things for three weeks. Service, Spanish, dancing, beaches, & incredible people.”

Ander

Programs: Montana Northern Cheyenne 2018 + Peru 2019

“My first Visions summer was a middle school program in Montana. I liked volunteering in the community, learning about a new culture, & exploring Montana.”

“There are lots of great Visions programs & it was a hard decision. My grandma is Peruvian & when I was 5 years old I went to Lima to visit family. I want to go back to see more of the country & learn more about my heritage. Also, I want to practice my Spanish outside of the classroom. I can’t wait to meet the counselors & other kids on the trip. They are a big part of the memories I take back with me. Of course, I am very excited to hike Machu Picchu. The trip is scheduled for my birthday weekend.“