A year ago, I moved to Bremen for my ESC volunteering project. My reason was simple, I wanted a challenge. I needed to do something meaningful, to prove to myself what I was capable of. I wanted an experience that would broaden my horizons, introduce me to new people, and teach me things I couldn’t learn in any other circumstances. After some research, an ESC seemed like the perfect opportunity, and as scary as it seemed at first, I’m so glad and proud I took that step.
The first few weeks were a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Everything was new, the language, the job, the people, the rhythm of life here. One of my biggest fears was not being able to connect with the students because of my limited German. But I quickly realized that connection doesn’t always need words.
I’ve made so many incredible memories during this year, both during and out of work, but if I had to pick one during my volunteer work then it would be one student, Leon. He was with us in gardening once a week, but even then, he’d warmly greet me anytime he saw me in school with the brightest smile. While in the garden, he was always looking out to help the others and even assist me, and while he knew I didn’t understand German too well, he still kept trying and that meant a lot. One time, a teacher working with us that day told me that he wanted to show me something, a small grave he’d made for one of the chickens that had died earlier that week. It was a very sweet moment, and even months later when I had to rake around that area, I was extra careful not to disturb that makeshift memorial.
Of course, not everything was easy. Moving to a new country and starting a new life from scratch is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. There were days when I felt exhausted or lonely, days when I missed home, and moments when my unsteady mental health made things harder. To be honest, there were even moments I wondered if I could really make it through the year. But I did, and I’m incredibly proud of myself for that. I learned that asking for help is not a weakness. Reaching out to my coordinator, friends, and family when things got tough was what helped me keep going. This year taught me that I’m stronger than I think, and that’s something I’ll carry with me forever.
The work itself also taught me so much. I learned patience and flexibility—because no matter how well you plan, things don’t always go the way you expect. I learned to appreciate small achievements, like seeing a student proudly hold a basket of freshly harvested vegetables. And I learned that sometimes the most meaningful impact happens quietly, in day-to-day moments of care and encouragement.
While working and connecting with the students was definitely one of the highlights of my working experience in the garden, working in the cold of winter under the rain and in the smoldering heat of the summer sun felt much harder. But even those moments had their purpose; they made me appreciate the good days even more.
Looking ahead, I know this experience has changed me in ways that go beyond practical skills. It gave me confidence and independence. I’ve seen what I can handle, and that makes me feel stronger about the future. Professionally, I’m not sure exactly what path I’ll take, but I know I want to work in a field that values human connection and creativity. Personally, I’m leaving this place with friendships that mean the world to me and memories that I’ll carry for life.
Would I recommend this experience? Without hesitation. It’s not always easy, and it won’t solve all your problems or give you all the answers, but that’s what makes it real and meaningful. It gives you the chance to step outside your comfort zone, learn, grow, meet people from so many different places with such colorful personalities and be part of something bigger than yourself.
I’m leaving this experience with my heart full and so much more: new skills, unforgettable memories, and the certainty that even when things seem hard, they will always turn out okay. I’ll always be grateful that I was fortunate enough to experience this unique year.
Maëlle was hosted by NaturKultur e.V. on our project co-funded by the European Union.
If you want to experience something similar to what Ana did, check out our open calls here.