Our by HEART submission category is for volunteer placements that brought about personal transformation, and/or for those who prefer to write a reflective account of their experience, using a personal voice in a creative, affecting style. Submissions in this category relay personal insights, observations and lessons learned, and focus on the emotional, inspirational, and motivational aspect(s) of the country, culture, organization.

Specifically, it is recommended that submissions are “memoirist” in one of two ways:

1) Explore an event / series of events by describing them and then showing (directly or indirectly) how they are / were significant to you, your life, or your overall volunteer experience. Focus on description, motivation, inspiration

-or-

2) Explore a problem or conflict and its resolution, and then show (directly or indirectly) how your understanding of the situation is significant to you, your life, or your overall volunteer experience. Focus on lessons learned and insights gained

In both cases, articles should demonstrate the following characteristics of the memoir form:

> Focus on a brief period of time, to capture highlights or meaningful events in one’s past

> Include retrospective contemplation of the meaning of the event(s)

> Use an emotional style to capture the feelings associated, rather than simply documenting each fact and detail

>If possible, use narrative structure, and any of the usual elements of storytelling such as setting, imagery, characterization, foreshadowing and flashback, and irony and symbolism

Additionally, authors are encouraged to bear the following tips in mind when composing a submission to the by HEART category:

> Tell a story: Use fictional techniques and structures such plot, characters, and dialogue to evoke an emotional response in the reader

> Explore a theme: Ensure that you effectively relate your personal story to your volunteer placement and situate it in the larger country/cultural context

> Use your voice: Express yourself in a voice that is personal, intimate and memorable. Do more than simply describe a scene or event – reach out with your voice to “move” the reader

> Choose meaning over memory: Your challenge is to reveal the deeper meaning behind your memories. The learning and insights which emerge from your memories are the essence to be conveyed and shared

Overall, authors are encouraged to use this category for expressive and creative writing that challenges what is “expected” in a volunteer’s report of an international work experience.

View a by HEART paper. Download RiverOfLife-ResearchPaperbyHeartKisslinger paper.