When I decided to join the ESC, I wanted to experience living abroad, discover a different culture and become part of a new community. I expected to have fun, meet new people and hopefully feel that I was doing something useful. After eleven months in Pécsvárad, I can say that I got all of that and much more.
I had the opportunity to volunteer with FIRE, where there was never really a “normal day”. I did a variety of different activities: helped in the charity shop, participated in music therapy at the elderly house, worked in the kindergarten, organised workshops on the youth club, gave Spanish and English lessons and helped with local events and community activities. I also took part in Erasmus+ youth exchanges, helping with week-long projects and team-building activities. I also documented some of these experiences through photos and videos for the organisation.
But one of the most important parts of my ESC was the people. I shared this experience with two other volunteers, the FIRE team and local volunteers, on whom I could always rely. I made friends from different countries, but I also became close to people from town too. In fact, some of these friendships became incredibly special to me, and I hope they will last for life.
Moreover, living in a small town gave me the chance to experience the culture in a way that would be very different from simply visiting as a tourist. I experienced local traditions first-hand, participated in community events and got to know people from different generations. I really appreciated becoming part of the community and discovering everyday life in Hungary.
Of course, eleven months abroad also came with challenges. But those challenges taught me some of the most valuable lessons. I discovered that I am stronger than I thought and capable of overcoming difficulties. I became more patient, less controlling and more adaptable, and I learned how important teamwork and mutual support are.
Looking back, my ESC was about much more than volunteering. It was about discovering a new culture, becoming part of a community, meeting people who became very important to me and discovering more about myself.
I would 100% recommend an ESC to anyone considering it. You never know how much an experience like this can change you until you take the chance. I went to Hungary wanting to experience the culture and be useful to a community. But I leave with unforgettable memories, lifelong friendships, new skills and a place that will always feel a little like home.
Thank you, FIRE, for these incredible eleven months!
Patricia Mogena
