Lorenzo's experience in Portugal

Hi! I’m Lorenzo, a 19-year-old, and I’ve just completed my ESC project in Lisbon.

I arrived in the Portuguese capital on October 2, 2023, together with about thirty other volunteers from my association coming from all over Europe, and I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I didn’t yet know that this experience would literally turn my life upside down and that I would find amazing friends and travel companions in those people!

The first few weeks were a whirlwind of emotions, both positive and negative, as I gradually settled in. My project mainly involved assisting a physical education teacher at an elementary school, helping with lessons, and organizing tournaments for the students. Every day was a new experience—whether at school with the children, spending quiet moments alone on the beach watching the sunset, or exploring beautiful Lisbon with my friends. Most of these experiences were positive, but even the challenging moments helped me grow and become more mature.

These eight months flew by without me even realizing it, but what I noticed is that this experience truly helped me grow as a person. It made me more independent, more responsible, and more aware of who I am and of my potential.