Experiencias

I have now been in Bilbao for two weeks, where I am taking part in a volunteering project at a youth centre in Portugalete. Although it is still the very beginning of my experience, these first weeks have already been full of new impressions.

The start of this experience has mainly been about settling into a completely new environment. Things are done differently: the rhythm of daily life, the way people communicate and how things are organized. Things go differently here compared to what I am used to in the Netherlands. At first, this can feel a bit overwhelming, but I am slowly getting used to it and learning to adapt. It is interesting to see how these things are different.

One of the biggest challenges so far has been the language. Although we can communicate through mixed languages, I still have to learn a lot. It can sometimes be difficult to fully express myself or to understand everything that is being said. At the same time, this motivates me even more. I hope that during my time here I can significantly improve my Spanish and feel more confident in conversations.

Even though I am still at the beginning of this experience, I am already thinking about what I hope to achieve in the coming months. Through my work at the youth centre, I want to connect with young people and encourage them to explore opportunities abroad. There are many possibilities in Europe and I hope to inspire others to take that step, just like me. If I can make a difference, even if it is small.

Looking ahead, I hope that my time here will not only be meaningful for others, but also an unforgettable experience for myself. I am excited to continue learning and to see what the next months will bring.