Why I chose Erasmus+ ESK project

Deciding to participate in a European Solidarity Corps (ESK) project was an easy choice for me. My passion for travelling, cultural exchange and helping others made the idea of volunteering in a youth club in Austria incredibly appealing. I have always felt that I get along with youngsters quite easily. Therefore, the opportunity to support young people and contribute to a positive environment for their growth was something I was really excited about.

Preparing for the adventure

To be honest, I did not prepare much before diving into this adventure. I believed that part of the experience was to learn and adapt on the go. While I did some basic research about Austria, specifically on the Tyrolian area where I was going, I chose to embrace the spontaneity of the journey. I attended a couple of pre-departure meetings organized by the Erasmus+ coordinators, which offered valuable insights into the program's expectations and objectives, but mostly, I felt confident that the new chapter that I was about to start would unfold positively.

The excitement of what’s to come

As the start date of my project approached, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. I looked forward to immersing myself in a new culture since long time, therefore, I was truly enthusiastic about it. The idea of learning about youthwork was particularly thrilling, as well as the possibility of organizing activities with the youngsters and be an inspiration to them. Also, meeting other volunteers from other European countries was very appealing. Sharing experiences, ideas, and perspectives with them was something I pictured a lot in my mind, and I knew that it would enrich my understanding of different cultures and ways of life.

What I’ve learned so far

Since arriving, the experience has been deeply inspiring. At a professional level, I've gained a deeper understanding of youth work and learned various strategies to motivate young people from diverse backgrounds to participate in different activities. Understanding their challenges has taught me empathy, and has shown me the importance of listening to their stories for them to feel supported, which leads to a closer and more friendly relationship with them. At a personal level, I have also learnt a lot about myself. Living alone in a foreign country is one of the most transformative experiences I had. It has offered me many opportunities for personal growth, as I had the time to engage in new activities such as yoga, dancing and painting. Furthermore, I learnt a lot about self-confidence, financial management and independence.

The challenges along the way

Adapting to a new environment, especially in the first few weeks, was a little challenging. I missed the comfort of home and being surrounded by family and friends. However, the transition into a new environment was surprisingly smooth, and quickly I got adapted to my new lifestyle. I found that my biggest hurdle was the language difference, as I did not know anything of German. However, with the support of language courses, I quickly learnt the basics and found myself communicating more confidently as the months went by. Therefore, these challenges, although present, were far from overwhelming. They served as opportunities for personal growth and learning, enriching my overall experience.

Looking towards the future

As I look to the future, the experiences and skills I've gained from volunteering will most likely shape my path ahead. Working in a multicultural environment has broadened my horizons and deepened my understanding of global issues. This journey has inspired me to seek roles that allow me to make a positive impact on groups. In fact, I would like to take part in another volunteering in a non-profit organization, perhaps in another continent. Also, living independently has enhanced my self-confidence and adaptability, training me to take on new challenges with a positive mindset.

In summary, my Erasmus+ and ESK project in Schwaz has been a transformative journey filled with learning, growth, and great experiences. It has prepared me for future challenges and opportunities, offering me the skills to make a positive impact with confidence wherever I go.