Institute for Field Research Expeditions - IFRE

Our group was warmly welcomed from day one with support and kindness. Micheal and his family had made themselves available to support our needs in whatever ways possible. Our introduction to Sri Lanka was filled with different site seeing, historical lessons, exploration of the local towns and morning classes that debriefed Sri Lankan culture and the countries language. I felt as if everyday I learned something that I would be taking with me to the next day. There was also plenty of free time woven into everyday that was helpful to get academic work done and to explore the local beaches and cities. Our second week was spent working with a government based orphanage and enrichment center for girls who have been court order to be there. It was such a privileged to be able to offer my support in anyway that these places could need it, and to see the impact that was created by bringing our own curriculum, games, and innovative ideas. The opportunity to volunteer is a good chance to be creative in your own ways to work with children and young women from a different culture. Within the language barrier there is a challenge to find activities that can best serve their needs and many ways one could do so. This being my first time in Sri Lanka, these past weeks have held space for historical lessons, cultural immersion, service and space available to explore the surrounding areas individually.