Volunteering Stories: Unforgettable Fiesta – by Rachel V.

Ahojte! Salut! My name is Rachel and I am 22 years old woman from the Slovak republic. My hobbies are reading books, baking, and traveling. 

I came to Romania at the beginning of June, just after I finished my bachelor’s degree back home. I was looking for a volunteering opportunity for a long time, then discovered the universe of European Solidarity Corps.

I checked more info about this program and I fell in love with the idea. I created a profile and waited for contact from organizations. 

After a while, I got contacted by Team for Youth Association and I did not hesitate. I took the chance. I loved the project – Cultural Fiesta, I heard only good stories about Romania from the people who actually have been here, I checked out the city and I loved the fact that it is in the middle of mountains surrounded by beautiful nature. In a couple of months, I was actually here in Baia Mare. 

The project was at the beginning challenging, we needed the time to adapt to the new environment, to the new people, we needed to get to know our co-volunteers and our partners, etc. However, I enjoyed every minute of it, the good and the bad parts. I learned a lot, I discovered a new country, the community of people living in Baia Mare, I met a lot of amazing people, I created some friends even. I discovered new ways of life, new points of view on different topics, I tasted new food, I improved my English language speaking and writing skills and I had the opportunity to study a new language – Romanian. 

When I look back at the past months, all I can say is that it was a wild ride full of new, wonderful experiences and people. I know that these memories will stay in my mind and especially my heart forever. Leaving is never easy and never a happy one, but I have hope that this is not goodbye forever only short-term bye, I know that we will meet each other again, in some unexpected places in this crazy, amazing world. 

For everyone who is wondering what to do and who is uncertain of going and trying volunteering, I can say only go on and take a chance. It will change your life! Do not hesitate. Wish all of you good luck! LA REVEDERE! 

The volunteer is hosted by Team for Youth Association in the Cultural Fiesta project, on a 5 months Solidarity Corps project in Baia Mare. The content of this testimonial does not reflect the official opinion of the European Union. The responsibility for the information and views expressed in the article rests entirely with the author.