Ionela's experience in France

You’ve probably made it this far because you’re wondering whether to take the leap and go or stay and wait a little longer. I remember that before leaving, I was eager to embark on a new adventure, but I was also very afraid of change. I had a thousand doubts about what my life there would be like. I wondered if I would be able to speak French and if I would make friends.

Today, at the end of my volunteering experience, I can say that I am proud to have overcome those fears and to have listened to my desire for growth. My expectations have been far exceeded. I never felt alone in my fears. There was always someone by my side, ready to catch me when I was about to fall.

At the end of my volunteering at Le Patiau, a ceramics museum in France, I take home an immense amount of experiences. I have seen new, breathtaking landscapes. I have met unique people who have enriched my days with smiles and countless stories. The “click” was immediate—there is something special both in people who decide to volunteer and in those who support volunteers. They often share the same desire to explore and discover the world.

I gained confidence in myself professionally. Before leaving, I wondered whether I would be able to do what I had studied anywhere. Volunteering has shown me not only that I am capable of doing it, but even doing it in another language. I am so grateful to the people who trusted me and accompanied me in this growth.

I also grew personally. I feel that I have developed as a person and become more defined. I allowed myself to try things I had always wanted to try, like camping and traveling alone. All these experiences are pieces of my puzzle, which I am completing little by little. As for the future, I don’t yet know exactly how these pieces will fit into my path.

I only know that they are precious, and this is the direction I want to go. I want to work in an environment that is open, inclusive, and supportive of people as a whole.

I have reached the end, and my heart is full of sadness. A full sadness—this was a wonderful project and an experience of incredible value. So take the leap and allow yourself to discover new landscapes, new friends, and new parts of yourself.