It’s officially been a week since I’ve been back from my volunteering project in Molfetta, Italy and I’m still not fully comprehending the joy I feel every time I think of those three months. As someone who never did an ESC project or Erasmus, I had many doubts both before and after applying. It’s always scary to change countries, especially if it’s for a long time. But I’m more than happy that I took the risk, because this summer was the best summer of my life.
My project in Molfetta consisted of two phrases. During the first one which lasted till the end of the first week of August, I volunteered at the summer camp of Trullo Beach, where we spent time with children from ages 4 to 12, played games, swam, danced and had fun with them. At the end of the camp, I also taught them some words in Armenia, as a farewell gift.
During the second part, me and another volunteer from Ukraine hosted weekly painting workshops at Trullo. People registered beforehand, came with a partner and every week we had different tasks for them. It became very popular very fast, and at the end of the project we had so many participants, it was a bit difficult to manage, yet we had the most fun!
But of course, these three months were much more than just volunteering. It was also about making friends, cultural exchange and amazing memories that will last a lifetime. I got to know the south of Italy so much better, learnt the language, travelled across Puglia, tasted amazing food and finally promised everyone to give a tour of Armenia once they visit me here during Spring.
Someone wise once said that it’s not about the place, but people and I could not agree more. I was the only Armenian there, and I never felt lonely for even a second. Those people made Molfetta feel like home and made my soul long for another visit every breathing second. A bit dramatic, but I lived in Italy for three months, it was a bit expected))
For anyone reading this and feeling unsure whether or not during an ESC project is worth it—it is! And very much so! Just take the risk and apply because this is an opportunity of a lifetime.
