by Meera Sundaramurthy
Six years ago, I chose to volunteer in India at Shanti Bhavan. I expected it to be rewarding, but I didn’t realize just how deeply it would impact me.
Growing up without older siblings, I often looked for mentors — people who offered guidance, encouragement, and helped me believe in what was possible. Those relationships were a huge part of shaping who I became. When I decided to volunteer at Shanti Bhavan, I hoped I could give the students that same kind of support — someone who listened, encouraged them, and believed in their dreams.
From my first day, I learned that teaching wasn’t about having perfect credentials. It was about being present, paying attention, and adapting to each student’s curiosity and needs. Every class taught me as much as it taught them, showing me the importance of meeting people where they are.
Lessons Beyond the Classroom
Some of my favorite memories being a volunteer at Shanti Bhavan took place outside the classroom. After lessons, the younger children would run to the playground, eager to talk, play, and share their stories. They asked about my family and my life back home, their energy and curiosity never running out.
What stood out most was how openly they welcomed others. Volunteers came and went, but each new person was greeted with kindness and trust. It reminded me that connection can come easily when you lead with openness.
Evenings in the dining hall were another highlight. Sitting with the students over dinner, hearing them call me to their table, made me feel like part of their community. Those simple moments were some of the most meaningful.
A New Way to See Success
Before volunteering at Shanti Bhavan, I thought of success as a series of personal milestones — jobs, awards, recognition. For anyone considering whether to volunteer in India, my time at Shanti Bhavan taught me that success can also mean building bridges for others, creating opportunities for them to grow, and helping them reach their goals, just as Dr. Abraham George envisioned when he founded the school.
Since then, I’ve followed the students’ journeys — watching them earn scholarships, graduate, and begin their careers. Seeing them realize the futures they once imagined fills me with pride.
I came to volunteer in India hoping to make a difference, but it was Shanti Bhavan and its students who left the deepest mark on me. The impact of choosing to volunteer in India and becoming part of Shanti Bhavan will stay with me always.