Nadia's experience in Zagreb

It has now been about ten days since I returned to Italy after spending two years in Zagreb: one for my studies, and one with the European Solidarity Corps. Coming back was not easy—my idea of “home” feels more connected to Zagreb than to anywhere else. However, everything comes to an end, and one has to accept it. I will return to Zagreb sooner or later, if only to retrieve the slippers I forgot to pack in my suitcase.

Speaking of suitcases, I remember that during the first meeting with volunteers from all over Croatia, we were asked to draw a suitcase and fill it with the things we were bringing with us from our previous life experiences, as well as to write down what we expected to gain from a year of ESC. Mine was filled with plans, ideas, and programs. Of course, those plans did not come true (as often happens to me), but along the way I gained many other things: friendships, knowledge, skills, and experiences. I left with one idea in mind, which evolved in a completely different direction—and I am happy about that.

At the beginning, during my introductory interview with Amazonas, I had almost no idea what I would actually be doing. Gradually, things became clearer, and I found myself practicing sports, writing articles, teaching language classes, and taking part in international exchanges. I made new friends, both Croatian and fellow volunteers, and every day I did something I was truly passionate about. Somewhere between work and play, I was able to experiment and try new things, dusting off old ideas that I had never thought possible. One of these was the Model European Union Zagreb. Together with a small team of volunteers, and with constant support from Amazonas, I managed to create an international event attended by around seventy people, who spent three days discussing politically relevant topics. Stressful, for sure—but also a great source of pride!

I tend to remember past experiences with a touch of romanticism, but my ESC year was honestly an amazing period of my life. You can learn so much in just one year and dive into so many adventures that you really have to experience it to believe it. For this reason, I recommend it to everyone. Whether it lasts two months or twelve, you will certainly find something you were not looking for—but that will enrich you nonetheless. And now, it’s time to keep experimenting: find me somewhere around Europe.