The news that I have been qualified for the project made me very happy. Just a few months earlier, I had returned from a 2-month volunteering programme in Italy, thanks to which I felt that I wanted to explore the world and engage in social activities.
The “Own Your Tomorrow” Youth exchange in Alicante was a great example of activating young people, encouraging them to share experiences, practice English, and learn about the traditions and cultures of other countries. During international evenings we had an opportunity to listen to some interesting facts about European countries, try traditional delicacies, see some folk dances, and even learn their basic steps. It was really funny!
During the exchange, I learned many “ice-breaking” games and fun activities enabling me to interact with newly met people. I have to admit, I have become more aware of the opportunities offered by the European Solidarity Corps and I obtained valuable information concerning different types of projects. However, the most interesting thing for me was creating a project that aimed to activate young people. The project was prepared based on one of the problems we had noticed in our countries. This made it possible to get acquainted with the realities of our friends from different countries and to become aware of the problems they face. By creating a programme, project or even a presentation discussing a specific problem and proposing actions to help level it, we have shown a proactive attitude. Apart from theory and teamwork, we participated in a city game and we had an opportunity to explore the beautiful town of Alicante. We also visited the local activity centre where we were kindly welcomed and we could discuss the activities and reality of working in such an organisation.
I consider the trip very successful and I recommend youth exchanges to anyone who is an open-minded and curious about the world person and also who is not a stranger to social activity. Mobilities realised within non-formal education on behalf of the European Solidarity Corps offer various possibilities and occasions to meet great people.
Aleksandra, ‘’Own your tomorrow’’ Youth Exchange in Alicante, Spain
It was not only my first travel to Spain but also my first youth exchange so I did not really know what to expect there.
During the project, I met more than 30 people from such countries as: Spain, Bulgaria, Portugal and Croatia. Thanks to them my trip to Alicante was so unique. During the workshops, we talked about conscious participation in society, planning and implementing youth initiatives, and the opportunities of the Erasmus+ programme. We also spent a good amount of time planning our own initiatives and thinking about what young people in our country are missing.
The thing that surprised me the most during the project was the cultural differences between Poland and Spain. Siesta and the closing of stores (or opening them at late hours for us) and a completely different cuisine – tapas, paella, fresh seafood and the sweetest orange juice I have ever drunk. I also really enjoyed the cultural evenings, during which I tried dancing some traditional dances and, together with all the participants, danced polonaise.
The time I spent in Spain will remain in my memory for a long time. I believe that the experiences gained during the project will enable me to be more engaged and aware of how youth initiatives are created. Although it was my first project I hope that it will not be the last experience of this type.
I would like to encourage everyone to international trips. It is an incredible possibility to see different countries, learn about their culture and gain some knowledge that is often not learned at school. What is more, it is a great chance to improve your linguistic skills and make some new friends.
Alicja, 22 years old, ‘’Own your tomorrow’’ Youth Exchange in Alicante, Spain
My application for the ‘’Own your tomorrow’’ Youth Exchange was a spontaneous decision.
Entering my data in the simple form, I didn’t even imagine that soon I would be learning the basics of creating youth initiatives, and in my free time I would be dipping my feet in the coastal waves of the beach in Alicante.
During the week of the project, I met many interesting people not only from Poland, but also Bulgaria, Croatia, Portugal, and, of course, Spain. Cooperation during tasks and in free time has created relationships that I will certainly remember for the rest of my life. I had the opportunity to learn firsthand about the culture of the countries participating in the mobility.
My stay in Spain passed in a pleasant atmosphere, full of laughter and mutual support. The activities proposed to us developed the subject of youth participation in civil society interestingly. I think that sharing experiences with other participants will bring great results in my future activities.
This youth exchange was a complete experience for me. I can’t wait for another similar opportunity, and I hope I will be able to experience it with the LEVEL UP organisation which perfectly fulfils its role. Big thanks also to Ala, a coordinator of the Polish group.
Participants get reimbursed for transportation and get food and accommodation for free. So, you can travel to interesting places, pay absolutely nothing, and at the same time learn something new and meet people from different countries. Since my return, I have already recommended such trips to at least a few people, and my encouragement is that there are no disadvantages, just advantages.
Marcelina, 21 years old, ‘’Own your tomorrow’’ Youth Exchange in Alicante, Spain
During the exchange, I gained valuable experience.
First of all, I learned openness to new, unfamiliar cultures and diversity. Meeting people from different corners of the world was incredibly inspiring. I was surprised by their hospitality and cordiality. Cuisine was full of surprises and the residents were very friendly and helpful. Throughout the project, we could count on the support provided by the organisers and the LEVEL UP Association itself. Together we experienced many fun moments that will surely remain in our memories for a long time. I would like to sincerely thank all the people who contributed to the creation of the project, both participants and organisers.
Erasmus youth exchanges are a great opportunity to learn about new cultures, develop personally and professionally, and build international relationships. I recommend such trips to my peers, as they are not only valuable but also full of unforgettable adventures and experiences.
Nikola, 18 years old, ‘’Own your tomorrow’’ Youth Exchange in Alicante, Spain
During the exchange, I had the opportunity to meet many interesting people, both programme participants and Alicante residents. Their openness and warm welcome made me feel at home, despite being in a completely foreign country.
One of the biggest surprises for me was the pace of life in Alicante and the siesta – the traditional Spanish practice of resting during the day. It was a completely new experience for me, but I quickly adapted to this rhythm of life and enjoyed the moment of relaxation.
Spanish cuisine was a real feast for my senses. Tapas, paella, fresh seafood – everything tasted deliciously! The locals were extremely hospitable and helpful, always ready to share their culture and traditions.
I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to participate in this project and for all the knowledge and experience I gained from it. It was not only a time of learning and development for me, but also an opportunity to meet wonderful people and create unforgettable memories.
One of the funniest situations I experienced during the exchange was my first encounter with Spanish flamenco. During a rehearsal, I looked like an elephant trying to dance ballet, which made everyone watching smile. Even so, having fun and laughing together made this moment remain in my memory forever.
I would like to thank warmly everyone at LEVEL UP for their hard work and investment in preparing and coordinating this project. Thanks to them, my experience was not only unique but also extremely valuable for my personal and professional development.
Of course, I wholeheartedly encourage others to go on international trips! It’s not only a great opportunity to learn about new cultures, traditions and people, but also an extremely valuable personal and developmental experience.
During international trips, you can broaden your horizons through learning tolerance, empathy and openness to diversity. It is also a great opportunity to develop communication skills and gain new work experience through internships abroad.
An international exchange is not only an opportunity for travelling and sightseeing, but also a chance to get to know yourself in a completely new context. It is often possible to meet there people with different values, perspectives and ways of life which allows you to see the world from a completely different perspective.
Władysław, 23 years old, ‘’Own your tomorrow’’ Youth Exchange in Alicante, Spain