Development Support for Transylvania: Volume 6 – Karolin Laas – 6 Months Volunteering in Romania

Name of the project: Development Support for Transylvania: Volume 6

Date: 01.10.2019 – 29.03.2020

City/Country: Cristuru Secuiesc, Romania

 

 

 

Hello, My name is Karolin, let me tell you a story about how dreams come true.

Many many years ago, when I was a bit younger I noticed that a lot of people around me are not happy. They are going to work, paying the rent aso. So in mind, I was asking is that the real-life?

About a year later at school, there was a guy who came to talk about volunteering and I knew that this is something I want to participate in. At the age of 27, I made it true. I jumped on the airplane to welcome the new chapter in my life. Even though my homework about Romania and the culture was poor, I felt that it’s the right step to do.

On the arrival day to Romania, I got jelly legs and I started to doubt in myself. But when I finally arrived at The small city, Cristuru Secuiesc, after a long trip,  and saw the other volunteers I felt that there is no need to panic, just go with the flow. And So I did.

My main activities were going to kindergartens Play with children and teach them English. The children were from age 2 to 6 years old, so I was able to be really creative with them. We were singing and learning some new things but the main thing- I was able to see how easily and playfully they were able to study some new words. Even though I came to Romania, the community in Cirsturu Secuiesc was speaking Hungarian, soo I was able to learn Hungarian and also Romanian language.

Cause I am a vegetarian I sometimes had some problems finding a good place to eat. But overall, the food was good, especially the deserts. So If you decide to do your project in Romania make sure you’ll get yourself a desert such as papanasi and maybe treat yourself with a glass of local wine?

Cause I had a working schedule I was able to plan my free time. During that time I was able to do some sport, running, hiking, winter swimming. And even be by myself if I felt the need for that.  But mostly I did use this time to travel with other volunteers and hitchhike around Romania. And oh boy, Romania is full of wonder! I was able to climb on top of a mountain, Hargita, that was 2100 m high! I was able to see many beautiful cities, for example, Sibiu, Brasov.

6 months passed quickly and now writing this article I have only good memories and feelings in my heart. I made my dream come true and I learned during the time soo much about myself and the others.

Make your dreams come true. Start now. 🙂

 

This Project was financed by European Commission’s European Solidarity Corps Programme