ESC51_YouNet 2022_1

Laura

Vittoria

Gesa

After graduating from high school last year, I wanted to use the following year to travel. In January, after a few stays abroad, I decided to continue my journey in Italy and applied for an ESC project in northern Italy, a small town called Medicina near Bologna. Luckily, I was accepted. At the beginning of February I went to Italy. I met a lot of nice people there. Also, I really liked the project. It was about supporting children and young people from difficult backgrounds with homework after school. In Italy this concept is called "Dopo Scuola" (literally "After School"). But not only homework, but also other activities (e.g. crafts, football games) filled the afternoon. When the weather was sunny we always spent the time outside. At the weekend I usually took the bus to Bologna. There I met friends or did other activities. All in all, the two months were a really nice time for me and I can really recommend an ESC project to everyone.

Yana

My name is Yana Shevchenko, and though I'm originally from Ukraine, I've spent the last five years studying in Banská Bystrica, Slovakia. Recently, I completed my Master's degree in Finance, Banking, and Investment. Instead of immediately diving into the professional world, I made the decision to take a gap year and embark on a fulfilling volunteering project. Volunteering holds a special place in my heart as it presents a wonderful opportunity to broaden my horizons and explore new places. It allows me to acquire invaluable experience by participating in various projects and connects me with fascinating individuals along the way. Engaging in different events not only allows me to express my creativity but also enables me to contribute from an organizational perspective. The realm of volunteer projects offers a vast landscape for creativity to thrive. When considering the destination for my volunteering project, Italy immediately came to mind. The country is renowned for its rich historical background, offers some of the best cuisine in the world, and boasts the most beautiful language. Italy's enchanting allure hides numerous secrets waiting to be unraveled, which greatly entices me to choose it as the perfect country for my volunteering experience.

Patricia

Today, we bid farewell to our outstanding European Solidarity Corps volunteer, @patricia_orts , who completed her project on 31.05.2024. Patricia's professionalism, energy, and fun-loving spirit have made a remarkable impact on our team. Her friendliness and dedication have not only contributed greatly to YouNet's mission but also made her a cherished part of our community. Patricia, we will miss you dearly, but this is not a goodbye—it's a see you later. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors!

Irem

his month I went to Portofino, I looked for love but I couldn't find it 🙁 April was a month of travelling and enjoying spring for me. I was in Naples in the first week of April and enjoyed the chaos of Naples and the very sweet Italian people. Then I had the opportunity to get to know Italian culture more closely by travelling to Portofino, San Geminiano and Padova. Although the story and culture of each city changes a little, the helpfulness and sincerity of Italians never changes This month was also very enjoyable for volunteering in the office and getting to know the local community. We went to high school in Budrio and talked about EU youth opportunities. I love volunteering in Italy!

Jorge

The craziest, most interesting month is always the last month... But in an experience like ESC, is difficult to pinpoint a moment that wouldn't be considered as "interesting". I'm not even talking about what we do in ELA, or what I've seen, tasted or heard. I'm talking about the incredible people I meet on my way. It's because of them that this project is worth it, and it's them the same thing that makes me shed a tear and get a smile on my face at the same time while I prepare to go back home

Vasiko

Participating in the European Solidarity Corps as a volunteer in Bologna, Italy, was an extraordinary adventure that profoundly impacted my personal and professional growth. During my time there, I had the unique opportunity to collaborate with teachers and educational professionals from all across Europe, gaining insights into diverse educational practices and pedagogical approaches. Our team was actively involved in supporting training sessions for participants, ensuring they had the resources and guidance needed to succeed. We organized city tours, which not only helped participants familiarize themselves with the rich cultural heritage of Bologna but also fostered a sense of community and connection among them. Additionally, we facilitated networking events with schools from all over europe, creating bridges between different educational systems and allowing for a fruitful exchange of ideas and experiences. This experience was invaluable, as it taught me critical organizational and communication skills, the importance of teamwork, and the ability to adapt to new and diverse environments. The knowledge and competencies I acquired during this time are directly applicable to my future career, making me a more versatile and culturally aware professional. Overall, my time with the European Solidarity Corps in Bologna was an amazing journey of learning, growth, and unforgettable experiences

Aura

First two weeks in Bologna! I arrived to Bologna two weeks ago and I feel already like it’s my second home. Not only because of the other volunteers I met and the activities we’ve done outside of the Volunteering Job, but also because I am enjoying the tasks I have to do and the people from around the world I am meeting! It’s an experience I have never lived before, and the city has a romantic, beautiful atmosphere that inspires and makes my experience even better. I am thanked specially to my roomates, that since the beginning stand my need for gelatto almost everyday, and the cinema nights we’ve attended to Piazza Maggiore ‘Cinema sotto le stelle’. Here are some pictures from an Italian song I love and what I feel when I’m here in Italy!

Nadia

I arrived two months ago to Bologna, time flies especially when you are surrounded by amazing people. I feel Bologna as my home and this is possible thanks to my fantastic roomie, my incredible flatmates, my amazing colleagues in the office and the volunteers. I am really thankful to YouNet for choosing me to live this experience because not only am I in love with Italy but also with Bologna, bolognese architecture and its gastronomy as well (especially with gelato al pistacchio) . I am very proud because in 2 months, I can say that I improved my Italian language, and cooking skills. I learned how to make Melanzane alla parmigiana!

Kristina

Today we say goodbye to our volunteer Kristina who completed her 4 months ESC. Thank you for your work and your bright smile everyday during your project. We will miss you, Kristina. Best luck in your next experiences!

Maryna

Today we say farewell to our amazing volunteer Maryna, who completed her 4 months ESC.Thank you for your work and dedication during your project. We will miss you, Maryna, but we wish you the best in your following adventures

Rositsa

To all the future volunteers, enjoy the insights of my volunteering journey in Italy! Love, Rosie:D As the sun sets over the rolling hills of Italy, casting a golden glow upon ancient architecture and landscapes, I find myself reflecting on the transformative journey I've embarked on as a European Solidarity Corps (ESC) volunteer. Seven months into my adventure, I've been fortunate to witness the beauty of this country, immerse myself in its rich culture, and most importantly, make a meaningful impact in the lives of the VET students I’ve closely worked with.My decision to volunteer in Italy was fueled by a desire to challenge myself, broaden my horizons, and contribute to positive change. Little did I know that this journey would not only test my limits but also redefine my understanding of life in its different forms,cultures and personal growth. As I continue on this one in a lifetime adventure, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities I've been given, the lessons I've learned, and the people I've met along the way. And as the sun sets once again, casting its golden glow over the Italian landscape, I am reminded that the greatest adventures are often the ones that challenge us the most.

Helin

Getting a beer on st. patricks day One highlight this month was attending a concert with my roommate Zuza, where we danced and enjoyed the music together, creating lasting memories. Additionally, I had the opportunity to travel to Rome for a training, which was both informative and enjoyable, especially with the beautiful weather adding to the experience. However, upon returning from Rome, I got sick. Reflecting on the past six months since my arrival, I am grateful for the opportunities and connections I have made. And I’m hoping that I’ll be able find a job soon

Sofia

In 2024, I suddenly found myself having to start from scratch, and the idea of volunteering, something I had always wanted to do, came back to mind. For me, the goal was to take some time to decide what to do in the future, meet new people, and have new experiences. Along the way, I've learned many things, those small lessons that come from working with people with disabilities. About love, authenticity, simplicity, and spontaneity. I've been lucky enough to be in a city that I fell in love with from the start, in a beautiful apartment, with flatmates and friends who have become like family. I've learned to live in the present and make the most of my time, as I only had 6 intense months to enjoy it. The experience has definitely changed my perspective on the future and myself, and I'll be staying in Bologna for a bit longer, now that I have became a bit more Italian

Gesa

After graduating from high school last year, I wanted to use the following year to travel. In January, after a few stays abroad, I decided to continue my journey in Italy and applied for an ESC project in northern Italy, a small town called Medicina near Bologna. Luckily, I was accepted. At the beginning of February I went to Italy. I met a lot of nice people there. Also, I really liked the project. It was about supporting children and young people from difficult backgrounds with homework after school. In Italy this concept is called "Dopo Scuola" (literally "After School"). But not only homework, but also other activities (e.g. crafts, football games) filled the afternoon. When the weather was sunny we always spent the time outside. At the weekend I usually took the bus to Bologna. There I met friends or did other activities. All in all, the two months were a really nice time for me and I can really recommend an ESC project to everyone

Paula

On 26 February 2024 I arrived in Marotta, a small town on the coast of the Adriatic Sea in Italy, to venture into a new experience as a volunteer with the Red Cross. My work as a volunteer during these 3 months has been to be the support person accompanying children with physical and intellectual disabilities and elderly people to their medical appointments, to school and to rehabilitation or physiotherapy in the adapted vans and ambulances. This experience has had good and not so good things. The first thing I would like to highlight is that every moment I have spent with the users, who, as you can imagine, were not in the best health situation, has made me appreciate much more the small details and moments of life, as well as understand the importance of taking care and taking care of ourselves, because, although we have everything, without health we cannot enjoy it. Also, facing the challenge of moving alone to a new country, with a different culture and language, has been key for me to get to know myself much better and to know that I am capable of adapting to environments that, perhaps, are not the most comfortable for me. If I had to talk about something bad, I would say that it has been difficult for me to socialise or meet people outside of work because, living in a small town, social life was reduced. Also, I have felt a very strong culture shock that I did not expect and that has made my experience more difficult. In spite of everything, I take with me great things that I have learned from Italy and also great people who have accompanied me and made my stay much more fun. The Paula who arrived in Marotta on 26 February is not the same Paula who returns to Spain on 5 June, but I like her a lot more

Monia