Why ESC?
I always wanted to do something that would help the world in one way or another, have more experience in life, face some routine difficulties and overall develop as a person. After the research I got to know about ESC Volunteering that let’s go abroad and do some work up to your interest while the financial aspect is covered by the sending/hosting organization. I was initially surprised that ESC opportunity is not widely and openly talked about which aroused even more interest. And let me tell you, it is a hidden gem, saying the least.
What and where?
My volunteering was held in a Youth Centre in Koper, which is located on the coast of Slovenia, right by the Italian border. The youth centre is an organization supported by the local governments, ensuring young people have a place to hang out, hold events and meet people. My work was mostly digital design for events as well as photographing the same events. Throughout my volunteering I also had an opportunity to work for the city and do some jobs that would be seen on the streets. It is crazy to think that I had my designs on billboards. Having prior experience was not necessary, but willing to learn and having curiosity was a must 🙂
What are the perks of ESC?
As a volunteer you get a lot of bonuses and opportunities, such as language courses. I first attended language courses with Erasmus+ students and then my hosting organization supported my wish to continue learning Slovenian, so I had a chance to attend courses offered my University of Ljubljana. And just like that, I ended my volunteering with an A2 Language Certificate of Slovenian language.
Also, as a volunteer you get on-arrival and mid-term training which gather all the volunteers from the country you are hosting in and for a few days you connect, brainstorm and overall enjoy each other’s company. We had our training in the amazing hotel in the prettiest places in Slovenia. In my mid-term, for example, we were so close to the Croatian border that we decided to rent bikes and cross the border. That was my first time in Croatia, yet a unique experience.
In terms of support, the volunteers are fully supported from both sending and hosting organizations. In case you have any concerns, problems, worries I could always contact someone and be heard. Luckily, in my hosting organization I really felt like part of the family, and I build a stronger bond with people from the youth centre. I am so grateful that I had a chance to share this path with them.
More than just volunteering…
In the second week of my volunteering, I fell in love with the place, and I told my mentors straight away – I want to move here. Back then I meant it seriously, but I didn’t have a clue how to stay. The good thing about being ESC volunteering is that you get your residence permit therefore it is easier to continue life in the same country. After half a year I started to really think about how to stay and university happened to be my answer. Early in my ESC I did my application and after finishing my volunteering I came back to Estonia where I could spend my summer and that’s when I got the message that I got accepted. Now I am so happy to be back.
Reflection Time
Looking back, I am glad I made this decision to be a part of ESC. This year was full of discovering myself, experiencing life, having ups and downs, meeting amazing people and gaining friends for life. I wouldn’t do anything differently, every challenge made me stronger, and every person made me happier. I am sure I will remember this experience forever and bring it further with me in life. In my case my ESC volunteering never ended, and it was just a start for something bigger ❤️
