During the winter of 2023, I had the fortunate opportunity to take part in hosting a service trip with two classmates, under the supervision of Ms. Shirley. Our goal was to donate books, repaint the school campus, set up games for the students, and organize a festive performance for the villagers in Loei province.
We held weekly meetings to plan the timeline of our project, organize the activities, and consider solutions to any problems that might arise during the trip. This process not only helped us prepare thoroughly but also ensured clear communication between team members and our supervisor, minimizing the chance of miscommunication.
Shortly before the trip, we set up a fun fair booth to sell drinks and posters to raise funds for our activities. This stage of the project helped me recognize the amount of time, effort, and careful preparation required to successfully bring our plans to life.
My time in Loei was enriched by the warmth and kindness of the local community. Spending time with the students, teachers, and my own friends was an eye-opening experience—it helped me understand what life is like for children growing up in challenging conditions. Despite this, seeing the children’s smiles and hearing their laughter during our activities reassured me that our visit was truly meaningful.
This experience taught me the value of teamwork, inclusion, and communication. It also pushed me outside of my comfort zone and helped me grow as a person in many ways. This trip would not have been possible without effective teamwork—whenever challenges arose, we supported each other. By including everyone and working together, we were able to create something truly special.