The ESC Program: Two Trainings, Many Impressions

As part of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), I had the opportunity to participate in two important training sessions that enriched my experiences and perspectives as a volunteer. The first training took place shortly after my arrival in Bulgaria, in a hotel in Sofia. Over the course of five days, we had the chance to dive deep into the various aspects of the ESC program. It was unexpectedly exciting and informative. I not only learned a lot about the structure of the program and the different roles, but also met amazing volunteers working on projects across Bulgaria. Their stories, motivations, and perspectives were incredibly inspiring, and it was impressive to see how quickly we bonded as a group.

The training content was diverse and often presented in a playful way. We focused on communication, intercultural differences, and, of course, the various projects and their goals. The interactive tasks encouraged exchange and learning from one another, which made the training particularly enriching. It was fascinating to learn more about the other ESC projects and the different challenges and experiences of the volunteers. These personal insights showed me how diverse and valuable the ESC program truly is.

The second training, unfortunately, was held online, which created a completely different dynamic. The personal interaction was missing, but the organizers still made the best of the situation. It was a good opportunity to reflect on the experiences so far and gain new perspectives. Despite the differences from the first training, I was able to take away many useful insights and ideas for my work. Overall, I am very grateful for both trainings, which have helped me both personally and professionally.

By Sarah K.