- 7 July 2026
- Posted by: Team for Youth Association
- Category: Fără categorie
If someone asked me to describe myself before coming to Romania, I would simply say: I was a workaholic. My life in Jordan was mostly work. I worked hard every day, and during the weekends I spent time with my friends or played video games whenever I had the chance.
I had many dreams, like continuing my studies, traveling more, and exploring new opportunities, but sometimes life is not only about dreams. Financial challenges made many of those plans difficult.
Still, one thing about me never changed: I never stopped believing that another opportunity would come.
That opportunity was the European Solidarity Corps.
I had already experienced a short-term ESC project in Bulgaria, so coming to Romania was not something that scared me. Actually, I was excited. I wanted to meet people from different countries, build international friendships, improve myself, and create opportunities that could shape my future both personally and professionally.
When I arrived in Romania, I didn’t know that this country would start feeling like a second home.
During these months, I have done many things I never imagined. I tried snowboarding for the first time (and yes, I fell many times!). I walked for sixteen hours during one adventure. I travelled to beautiful places across Romania, organized workshops, visited schools and associations, created activities for children and young people, celebrated Jordan’s Independence Day with the local community, and worked with amazing volunteers from many different countries.
But if you ask me what my favorite activity was, I honestly can’t choose one.
The best moments were never about the activities themselves.
They were the moments when someone looked at me and simply said, “Thank you.”
One Romanian volunteer once told me that I had inspired him. Another young participant said that our conversation opened his mind to new ideas. Those moments meant more to me than any completed project or successful workshop. They reminded me why I chose this journey.
Romania also surprised me in many ways. Before coming here, I didn’t know much about the country. Now I can honestly say it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited. I admire how Romanians protect their traditions and culture. Even though our religions are different, I found many shared values, especially around family, respect, hospitality, and community. Because of that, Romania never felt like a foreign country. It felt familiar.
People often ask me if joining an ESC project is worth it.
My answer is always the same: yes.
Even if you already have a job. Even if you are unsure. Even if you think you’re too comfortable where you are. I would still take that chance again without hesitation.
The only thing I regret is that I couldn’t stay longer. I completed a 45-day short-term project and now a six-month long-term project, but because of the ESC age limit, this is my last opportunity. If I had the chance, I would gladly do another project.
When I return to Jordan, I don’t just want people to ask about Romania. I hope they notice that I have changed. I am more confident than before. I believe in my abilities more than ever. I know my value, and I know that I can adapt, learn, and contribute wherever I go. This experience didn’t change who I am, it helped me become a better version of myself.
If there is one thing I hope people remember about me after I leave Romania, it is not the workshops I organized or the activities I led. I hope they remember the person. Someone who cared. Someone who made them laugh. Someone who was always happy to help. Someone they will miss.
Because, at the end of the day, volunteering is not only about the places you visit or the projects you complete. It’s about the people whose lives touch yours and the small difference you leave behind.
Thank you, Team for Youth, my fellow volunteers, my coordinators, mentors, and every person I met during this journey.
Romania will always have a special place in my heart. And no matter where life takes me next…
I’ll keep moving forward.
