volunteering in krakow for 10 months

And just like that, my European Solidarity Corps project has come to an end. From September to the end of June, I’ve been living and volunteering in Kraków, working in a local primary school — and what a ride it’s been.

I came here not really knowing what to expect. I didn’t know the language, I didn’t know the people, I didn’t know how cold it could actually get in January (spoiler: very cold). I still can’t pronounce “przepraszam” without sounding like I’m choking on a pretzel — but at least I’ve learned that around here, effort counts more than grammar.

Working in the school taught me a lot — about creativity, patience, improvisation, and the superhuman energy levels of children. I learned how to explain things with hand gestures, how to handle chaos with a smile, and how to stay calm when someone suddenly starts singing in the middle of a lesson (which, by the way, happens more often than you’d think).

Kraków itself? A beautiful, charming, slightly chaotic city that grows on you day by day. Trams that sometimes cooperate, parks full of life, and a city center that looks like a fairy tale — until you realize you’ve just walked 12,000 steps without noticing.

And then there’s the food. Let’s just say… I’ve never missed Italian cuisine more in my life. There are some Polish dishes that I’ll remember fondly — and others that I’ll remember as emotional trauma. But hey, at least I now know how to say “I’m full” in Polish… mostly because I had to practice escaping the third round of pierogi at every gathering.

Jokes aside, this year has been something special. I’ve met incredible people, learned more than I could’ve imagined, and felt part of something truly meaningful. Thank you to my hosting organization for the support, my colleagues at school for the warm welcome, and of course, the students — who made every day unpredictable in the best possible way.

I’m heading home with lots of memories, a bit of extra luggage (mostly emotional, don’t worry Ryanair), and a huge appreciation for this wild, unexpected, unforgettable adventure.

See you again, Kraków. I don’t know when — but I know I will.