Karine completed her ESC volunteering project in Vilnius.🍃🌎🌸
This is how she describes her experience:)
”I feel like everyone who wants to explore life in a different country, understand themselves better, and see what life looks like outside of their usual environment should experience an ESC project at least once—even a short one.
After my first two-month ESC, it became one of the best summers of my life and gave me memories I will always carry with me. Since then, I had the idea in my mind that one day I would like to do a longer project. But at the same time, I kept telling myself that maybe it was too late for me—that I should already have a stable job, have things figured out, and settle down. I thought this kind of experience was for people in their early twenties.
But at 28, after burnout and quitting my job, I felt completely lost. I needed to go somewhere far—not just physically, but also mentally. I needed a change. That’s when I remembered ESC again, and this time it felt like the right moment.
I knew I wanted to work with children. For me, being around kids is something very special—it feels calming, but at the same time it gives me so much energy. Another important thing for me was the country. I knew I wanted a place that is green, peaceful, and not too crowded. That’s how I found my project in Vilnius.
Looking back, I feel like applying at this stage of my life was actually an advantage. I understood better what I wanted, I did a lot of research, and I felt more prepared. Maybe that’s why my experience went quite smoothly.
At the same time, I think it’s important to say honestly that ESC is not always easy. There can be difficulties and misunderstandings. I also noticed that some volunteers felt disappointed because they expected people and situations to be the way they are used to. But when you go into a different culture with that expectation, it can easily lead to frustration. I think it’s very important to stay open, respectful, and flexible, while also knowing your own boundaries.
This experience helped me realize so many things about myself. Living alone in a new country and having the freedom to just be—without pressure, without expectations—is something really powerful. In Vilnius, I felt a kind of calmness and inner peace that I hadn’t felt in a long time. The green parks, the quiet atmosphere… it’s something I truly miss.
One of the most beautiful parts of this journey was the people. The on-arrival and mid-term trainings were not only useful but also full of connection, energy, and fun. Being surrounded by people who are in a similar phase of life creates a very special bond. I met people who feel so close to me now that they are already planning to visit me in Armenia.
I also feel very lucky for all the people I met—my flatmates, coworkers, friends, and of course the children. All these connections made my experience even more meaningful. It also made me realize that I can build strong and genuine relationships with people, which is something I really value.
For me, this ESC project was more than just volunteering. It was a time of growth, healing, and understanding myself better.
And if someone feels like it’s too late—I was there too. But now I can say, sometimes it’s exactly the right time.”
