Student Volunteer finds Inspiration in the Cook Islands

Reflections from Global Volunteer Jedd about his volunteer trip to the Cook Islands.

My volunteer trip to the Cook Islands was incredible. I worked at a local school close to where we were staying, called Apii Avarua. It is a K-8 school and decently sized, about 30 per grade. Three of us 9 volunteers helped out in the Avarua school and the others were spread out with different projects.

I primarily was a teacher aid. I spent about half of my two weeks with the same 5th grade class, so by the end I was able to learn a few names and form some relationships. At lunchtime, we would go out and play soccer with the kids, which was really fun.

At the end of the second week, the school had a fundraiser to help build a cover for their basketball court. All the families brought food and games for everyone to enjoy. I was amazed at how much of the community came to support!

Before attending college, I’ve been pursuing various career interests. Education was one of mine. My volunteer trip to the Cook Islands gave me a little insight to the field and helped me further develop my career path. I am extremely grateful I was able to be part of the project in Rarotonga and will for sure return back to Rarotonga with my family in the future!

(See stunning drone photos of the Cook Islands that Jedd took during his free time.)

Learn more about Global Volunteers’ volunteer trip to the Cook Islands.

Visit our Cook Islands page for FAQs, program dates, projects descriptions, and more. Or, chat online with a Volunteer Coordinator to get started today. We’re ready to assist you with travel questions, registration guidance, and other program details.