BVP volunteers are extremely diverse. They range in age from college graduates looking to gain international field experience to retired individuals wanting to travel and make a difference in their free time. Because BVP has a focus on English language training most volunteers are native English speakers but about a quarter of the volunteers are non-native speakers with a high level of English. You are not required to have extensive teaching experience, however a keen interest in building the language skills of Burmese students is expected. BVP volunteers also vary in their professional backgrounds including social workers, teachers, business people and artists.
Due to the fast changing nature of placements and the unpredictable nature of volunteer turnover, BVP cannot confirm the exact placement before volunteers arrive. BVP volunteers are required to stay at their placement for a minimum of 3 months although many volunteers choose to extend their stay, either with their initial organization or by spending another 3 months with a different organization. It is not unusual for volunteers to stay beyond 6 months. Many have used their volunteer experience as a springboard to working in the development sector.
Key to being a successful volunteer is flexibility, commitment and a sense of adventure. Volunteers who come with an open mind usually find they have a better experience than those who have certain expectations about their placements.