My volunteer experience in Aachen was transformative
My name is Amela Nevaljalović. I am 24 years old and I come from a small town called Breza, close to Sarajevo.
From October 2023 to the end of May 2024, I had the great opportunity to join the European Solidarity Corps as a volunteer in Aachen, Germany This period was filled with wonderful experiences and personal growth, and one of the aspects I especially enjoyed in Aachen was its unique blend of history and modernity. The city impressed with its beautiful architecture, rich cultural heritage and vibrant student life, creating a dynamic and inspiring environment. I enjoyed exploring the old town, visiting the beautiful Aachen Cathedral and enjoying the local cuisine in the tucked away cafes and restaurants.
My volunteering took place at Vinzenz-Heim – Center for people with disabilities. In the beginning, it was challenging to adapt to the new environment and the specific needs of the people I worked with. However, as time went on, I was happy to acquire new skills and overcome these challenges. The experience was extremely rewarding and gave me a deeper understanding of the importance of empathy, patience and resilience. Working with dedicated staff and the positive impact we had on residents’ lives was truly fulfilling.
The peacekeeping program itself was extremely fulfilling. However, there were also challenges. The language barrier was sometimes difficult to overcome, especially in bureaucratic environments. Regardless, I was able to significantly improve my German language skills through the course organized by the hosting organization, which eased my adjustment period.
Overall, my volunteer experience in Aachen was transformative and definitely broadened my horizons, improved my cultural understanding, and left me with lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.
A big thank you to everyone who was part of this adventure and made me feel at home.
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*Volunteering within the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) is an initiative of the European Union for young people aged 18 to 30 who want to help, learn and develop in another country.
