Have you ever wondered what it’s like to volunteer for a year at The Camphill School? Laura was kind enough to share her story. She here for a yearlong experience from Freiburg, Germany before she heads back home to study. This year, she is living alongside students and coworkers in Lucas House and joins several prevocational crews throughout the week including Herbs & Processing, Forest Crew, Foxfield Flowers, Outreach, and Childcare. Here is a little bit of what she has to say about her experience so far:

1) What did you think would be your biggest challenge?

I thought the biggest challenge would be living in a community with so many people, having little privacy, a very full volunteer schedule, and living in the same house as the students, where i help and private life aren’t clearly separated. I was also a bit worried about supporting the students since I didn’t have much previous experience. Looking back, those exact things turned out to be the biggest gifts. None of my worries came true, everything I had the most respect for is now what I appreciate most here!!

2) What has actually been your biggest challenge so far?

Being so far away from home and leaving family and friends behind has definitely been the hardest part. At the same time, it’s also a huge opportunity. Being here pushes you out of your comfort zone and helps you grow in ways you wouldn’t at home. What makes it easier is that I truly feel like I’ve found a new family here. I was welcomed so warmly, I feel like part of the community, and I feel needed because without volunteers, a lot of this wouldn’t work. The days can also be very full, so learning to take breaks intentionally is important. But through that, I’ve learned what I really need to stay physically and mentally balanced. Getting out on my days off, exploring the area, and spending time with other volunteers helps me a lot.

3) What has surprised you the most?

I was surprised by how quickly I settled in and got used to the routine. From the beginning, I felt included and appreciated for my contribution. Living with 12 people in one house also felt normal much faster than I expected. The students really become your housemates. Especially during holidays, I noticed how empty the house feels without them and how much I miss them. Even after almost six months, no day feels the same. Time flies, and surprisingly, having a full schedule gives me more than having lots of free time. You see the results of your work and go to bed feeling like you’ve really accomplished something.

I also never thought I could be this happy so far away from home or feel so sure that this is the right place for me. I’ve learned to really appreciate everyday life in the community, and I’m super grateful for this time here.

To inquire about volunteer opportunities at The Camphill School’s Beaver Run or Beaver Farm campuses, visit https://www.camphill.org/communities/the-camphill-school/