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Help Fund My Education in Ethical International Development

Lucy Reddell Start Date: Feb 4, 2025 - End Date: Jun 3, 2025
  • Intern Abroad
  • Leadership/Training Program
  • Professional Development

My Travel Story

by: Lucy Reddell Start Date: Feb 4, 2025 - End Date: Jun 3, 2025
  • Intern Abroad
  • Leadership/Training Program
  • Professional Development
When I was a teenager, I struggled severely with my mental health. It took me many years to find a reason to live and I often felt like my life had no purpose. As I slowly began to heal myself, I discovered a great passion for being of service. I realized that part of my being suicidal came from a deep feeling of overwhelm at the mass suffering that so many in our world have to face. I healed myself by dedicating my life to helping others escape their suffering. 

It's taken me nearly a decade to find my path, as I was very set on serving my local community in the form of nursing or therapy. But, I unlocked an unexpected passion for geography and international development. Thanks to one of my professors, I was recommended for the International Affairs program at CU Boulder. I've taken multiple classes in geography, human geography, and international development, and my professors urged me to focus on these fields, as they believe I have a lot to contribute to the international community. 

I've never really had the chance to go abroad, but I've spoken Spanish since I was five years old and it would be monumental to apply that skill on the ground. Because I am bilingual, I will be able to connect with the communities I am working with in Ecuador in a more meaningful way. It has been one of my biggest life dreams to see more of the world and this is the first chance I've had to do so. 

I found Manna Project through a third party internship website through CU Boulder. They are a small nonprofit that works directly with the Kichwa indigenous community in the Amazon rainforest. Because so much of my education has focused on international development, I have learned about many of the downsides of international organizations with arriving in small communities and ultimately causing more damage than good, despite having good intentions. The reason that I chose to apply for Manna project is because their organization is highly ethical and takes the utmost precautions in terms of how they interact with the communities that they work with. This is my highest priority and my goal is to learn more about ethical and sustainable international development projects while serving the interests of the Kichwa people.

My internship experience requires a fee of $2,500. This will cover my housing, meals, and travel expenses after I arrive in Ecuador at the end of June. I am also responsible for my flights, and will need extra funds to cover my rent while I'm gone. On the off chance that I receive extra funds, they will be donated to the Manna project to continue funding their efforts. I do not yet have a blog, but will be starting one before I leave for Ecuador to document my experiences and thoughts for those who are interested. I am incredibly lucky to have been chosen for this opportunity and that will never be lost on me. Thank you for helping me so that I can continue to help others!

More Travel Information

Adventure Registry

  • Hiking Boots

    $ 120

  • Insect Repellant Clothing

    $ 100

  • Water Shoes

    $ 70

  • Water Purifying Water Bottle

    $ 80
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