I started the project with a lot of excitement and a bit of fear. Moving to a foreign country and beginning a new job with a new routine and a new language I didn’t speak a single word of, felt overwhelming.
I also arrived carrying a backpack full of stereotypes about the people from this country, all of which quickly disappeared when I realized how kind and welcoming they truly are. The first weeks, spent with the entire group of volunteers, were wonderful. Besides getting to know each other, we had the opportunity to discover the city and experience Polish culture.

As the weeks went by, I gradually settled into the routine I would follow for the next months: teaching Spanish classes, leading the craft workshops that Paula and I run with Aneta every other Wednesday, and attending yoga and Forró classes at the multicultural center whenever I can. These activities help me meet and connect with local people while also having a great time.

At the office, the work is fun and very flexible, every day feels like a new adventure! We do many things together, and I am learning so much. It is definitely a personal experience that is only just beginning. Teaching Spanish has been similar: at first I didn’t know where to start, but the seniors are always eager to talk, and many classes turn into everyday conversations where we share stories, moments, and aspects of our cultures. This fills me with joy, and I’m enjoying it far more than I initially expected.

Living with the other volunteers, including my flatmates, has also been wonderful. We make a great group, share many experiences, help each other whenever needed, and they have truly become our family here. We end up doing a lot of things together!

During these three months, I’ve gotten to know this new culture more deeply and, at the same time, learned a lot about myself ,and even picked up some Polish (at least the basics). I’ve been very happy with everything that has happened during these past months of the year, and I’m excited to see what the next ones will bring.

Article by  Maria E,

European Solidarity Corps volunteer

Point of view of European Solidarity Corps volunteers from 29/12/2025