It
is very common, nowadays, for young EU citizens to feel a bit lost once
they have obtained their University degree, once they have reached a
goal that took years of planning, commitment and, let's say it,
sacrifice. That inebriating feeling of endless job possibilities is
quickly overcome by uncertainty and anxiety, especially when your
ambition makes you want to reach for the stars, but your impatience
transforms any challenge into an insurmountable obstacle.
I
do not have any data to confirm how common these feelings are amongst
my peers, but I am sure that was my state of mind when I decided to
apply for EVS in Portugal.
After
more than 3 months working in Check-IN, a non-profit organisation that
promotes youth mobility and non-formal education, I can say that I am
very grateful for this experience. I am given the opportunity to enhance
my administration and communication skills in a very friendly and
openminded environment, I am growing more and more interested in how EU
institutions work and I am becoming more knowledgeable about EU project
management. Thanks to my EVS, I am figuring out what my next step is
going to be, and I am sure I will be able to make a more accurate
decision.
Needless
to say, living in Lisbon has also reawakened my passion for culture,
music and anything in between! This vibrant city has so much to offer,
it is hard not to fall in love with it. It is so welcoming and
beautiful, that it attracts people from all over the world, with
different talents and points of view. This also gives me a chance to get
to know different opinions and, consequently, to reinforce or modify
mine.
Truth
is, sometimes you just need to be positively shaken up, you need to be
reminded of how far you can go, how much you can accomplish. The daily
challenges you take on in a foreign country, from the bureaucracy to an
unknown language to understand, are a simple way to rediscover yourself
under a different light, a way to learn something new about who you are
and what you want.
Although
what I am stating has a strong individualist approach, I cannot
overlook the importance of my daily interactions with other human
beings. This EVS has given me the chance to meet wonderful souls,
friends and colleagues that are the main reason why my experience in
Lisbon is so fulfilling.
Erasmus+
projects, such as EVS, contribute to strengthen the ties amongst EU
citizens. A new culture to explore is a great way to broaden your
horizons and I encourage whoever enjoys taking on challenges and
learning more about themselves (and others) to apply for European
Voluntary Service. Get ready to be shaken up.
