,,Since the day I arrived here, things have been so beautiful I sometimes can’t believe it.'' Blog

Hello:) I’m Emma. I am from a small village (which is not so small anymore) on the northern
coast of Catalunya, mostly known as “La Costa Brava”.

During my 25 years of life I have lived mostly there, but I have also lived in Girona, a beautiful and historical small city nearby. I would say I have lived in so many other places, because what is living? Breathing, making
friends, existing, traveling. I spent one year (and one month) traveling around South
America, and I would say I have lived in those places.

That was my first ever experience of volunteering: I worked in exchange for food and somewhere to sleep. Non-monetary exchange is something that changed my mind completely, or, even better: it helped me
return to my original beliefs. From the moment I got back home, I knew that I wanted to
travel again as soon as possible. So, I spent two years finishing my studies in Gestalt
Psychotherapy and, last year, I started looking for more structured volunteering opportunities
around Europe.

Why more structured?

Because I also began studying an online degree in Pedagogy, and I knew I wouldn’t really keep up with it if I went backpacking again! jajajajaj

I found out about ESC and I thought it could be a really nice opportunity. I am so grateful to
the Emma that, some months ago, spent an entire day responding to all those forms,
reading almost every volunteering opportunity, Google Maps in hand, 1000 internet windows
open, without really knowing why, but with a deep sense that this is what I needed.

I sent my application to several projects, and, actually, where I am right now was none of them. I had
an interview with a member of Associazione INCO for another project in another place, and
they redirected me to the project in Comune di Lavis, which I am forever grateful for. I don’t
think there could exist a more perfect place for me. Once again: The Universe doing its
things.
Since the day I arrived here, things have been so beautiful I sometimes can’t believe it. I get
to work with such kind, cheerful, enthusiastic people at Le Politiche Giovanile del Comune di
Lavis; joining projects, and also proposing my own ideas. Additionally, the fact that I get to
live in a small village, by the river and the mountains, while being able to enjoy the culture,
life and events from Trento, as it is very close, is just the perfect balance for me.
I don’t know how things are going to evolve, but for the moment, I think they are going in an
amazing direction.

I truly believe that nice thoughts lead you to nice places, nice people, nice
moments. And for now, this is what I am experiencing. And I am deeply grateful.