How do you think you benefitted from the experience?

“As a student audiologist, I think this trip was an amazing opportunity for me to integrate with deaf individuals. We’re taught how to empathise with those who have a hearing impairment but, I have come to the conclusion that until you are in an environment with deaf individuals, such as that provided by VoluntEars, only then can you begin to understand the struggles faced by a deaf person.”

What did you learn?

“I have learnt what it means to be a hearing person in a deaf world. I have learnt that we don’t give communication the importance that it deserves and I have learnt the importance of sign language as a communication tool.”

What did you like about the VoluntEars programme?

“I really liked the fact that there was a mix of age groups, both hearing and deaf. I also liked how the activities had been scheduled so that we completed a handful of things each day.”

What did VoluntEars do well?

“The weekend trips to the sea turtle conservation project and the elephant orphanage was a wonderful experience and one that will be remembered. I think one of the best activities was helping at the children’s orphanage that had recently been affected by floods – it was a humbling experience that I am very grateful to have taken part in. I also really appreciate having the opportunity to walk around an audiology clinic in Sri Lanka and speak to the audiologist there.”

What was your funniest or most memorable experience ?

“Releasing the baby sea turtles into the sea. It was amazing.”