My volunteering experience

During my European Solidarity Corps (ESC) project in Cambados, I initially expected my experience to focus mainly on marine life and environmental awareness. While that aspect has certainly been meaningful, what has truly shaped me is the personal development I have gone through in everyday life situations far beyond the original project theme.

One of the most unexpected areas of growth has been cooking. Living independently forced me to move away from convenience habits and learn how to prepare simple, affordable, and healthy meals. Over time, I became more confident in planning meals, experimenting with local ingredients, and managing my time in the kitchen. What started as a necessity has turned into a skill that gives me both independence and enjoyment.

Socially, the project has pushed me out of my comfort zone. I had to actively learn how to connect with new people from different backgrounds, often in another language. This improved my communication skills significantly and helped me become more open minded. Whether it was working with local volunteers, engaging with the community, or collaborating with other ESC participants, I gradually learned how to build genuine social connections in unfamiliar environments.

Problem solving has also been a constant part of my experience. Living abroad always comes with small and large challenges, whether it’s misunderstandings, logistical issues, or adapting to new routines. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I learned to approach problems more calmly and logically, breaking them down into manageable steps and asking for help when needed. This shift in mindset has made me more resilient and independent.

Another important skill I developed is financial awareness. Managing a limited budget taught me how to prioritize expenses, track spending, and make conscious decisions about what is necessary versus what is optional. This has given me a much stronger sense of responsibility and long term planning, something I didn’t fully appreciate before the project.

In addition to this, sustainability became an important part of my daily life. Being surrounded by environmental topics made me more aware of my own impact on the environment. I started to make more conscious choices, such as reducing waste, reusing materials, and thinking more carefully about consumption habits. This practical understanding of sustainability went beyond theory and became part of my everyday routine.

Overall, while the ESC project in Cambados is connected to marine life and environmental work, its deeper impact on me lies in these everyday life lessons. I am leaving this experience not only with knowledge about the environment but also with practical life skills, stronger confidence, and a clearer understanding of how to adapt and grow in new situations.

Adrian Konkov, Associação Intercultural Para Todos