Alumni Testimonials & Reviews

“At the beginning of our stay in the host community we all shared what our goals were for our time together. Mine was to say yes to as many things as possible. Looking back, I feel a huge sense of accomplishment knowing I fulfilled that goal and grew as a person because of it.”

“I think this was a beautiful, life-changing experience and I will remember the people I met and the places I went for the rest of my life. I took many life lessons away from this program.”

“I thought I might get bored of my group, but that is the complete opposite of what happened. I would spend the rest of my summer with this group and community if I could. This experience has also inspired me to continue immersing myself in new cultures through service. I’ve loved every minute of the program and will forever cherish it.”

“Thank you Putney, for giving me the opportunity to experience a life-changing, eye-opening, unforgettable program like this. I could genuinely write about it for days! Two weeks has never felt so long but so short, I wish I had more time there!”

“This summer was an unforgettable adventure that truly helped me grow as a person. The program was incredibly well-run, the activities were meaningful, and the friendships I made will last a lifetime. Thank you for putting together such a wonderful and life-changing program!”

“I learned so much about caring for the land and being respectful of the space you’re in and I will definitely carry that forward.”

“The community service left me feeling so fulfilled and proud that I could make such a difference for the people around me.”

“My greatest sense of accomplishment came from stepping out of my comfort zone. I realized that I am capable of so much more than I thought.”

“The experience was powerful for me. It taught me the value of traveling to a place not just for the sights or monuments, but the people I can find there.”

“I gained a greater understanding of my own impact on others. Every moment I spent with the locals in Zaouiat, Morocco, stands out because even the language barriers could not stop their kindness from showing.”

“We had a great balance on our trip. We did a lot of service work, learned about the local culture, AND still had time for the silly, fun stuff!”

“The cultural immersion and human connection was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Going through the experience each day with new friends and peers created unbreakable bonds.”

“My Putney program pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me that I find joy in trying new things.”

“After our group finished all of our service projects, I felt a great sense of accomplishment. I was very proud of the work we did and how well we worked together! I gained a sense of pride and independence because I learned what I am capable of.”

“Language barriers have always made it challenging for me to connect with people, but now I know that I can build relationships with people around the world. I feel like talking with the locals has enriched my life so much.”

“I thought it was a really powerful thing to live with a host family. I made deep and meaningful connections with people who I would have never otherwise gotten to know in the same way. For that I am very grateful.”

“The people I met through Putney gave me the greatest sense of accomplishment. While some gave me perspective on my own life, others have inspired me to live as a kinder and more thoughtful person.”