The idea of living alone in another country can sound scary and challenging at first. However, it can also be exciting for some. It is normal to face some challenges at the beginning of our adventure. It can be a culture shock when we arrive in another country, the language, the way of how other people live and many other reasons. These were my first thoughts three months ago when I found out that I was selected to be a volunteer in Bremen. But as many others said, time flew by so fast and now everything is different. I dont have the feeling that doing something for the first time is scary. Living alone doesn’t sound bad anymore, cooking for myself is not a problem no more. My thoughts and mindset have changed a lot since I came here, and I don’t mean it in a bad way. I met people that helped me and made the first weeks easier for me. I got the chance to see myself getting out of my comfort zone and it really felt nice. And I found out that gardening is more relaxing, and I like it more than I thought. Which i didn’t mention before, but that is my volunteering, taking care of a garden. I learned how it is to share a flat and live with people I never met before. I learned that I love taking walks alone, taking my lunch and my hammock and sit in a park where I can just let my thoughts run free. And I got to experience all of these things, because I made the decision to go abroad, something I’m really proud of. Going to my arrival training was another experience. I met people there who made me feel comfortable and safe in a place where I’ve never been before.
And like that, my first three months have passed. Going out, having fun, working, getting to know this new side of me, and just enjoying the opportunities I’ve been given. Im grateful for all of the things that happened until now and can’t wait to see what else will come up to me in the next few months.
Tchüssie, Nina.
Nina is hosted by NaturKultur e.V. on our project financed by the European Solidarity Corps and Jugend für Europa.