“I’m a European Solidarity Corps Volunteer… how’s that?”

My name is Adrian, I’m 24, and this is my story about Poland. It all began in October 2019. At that time, I was starting my second year of the History degree at the University of Cantabria (Spain). One day, the Erasmus Exchange Program coordinator held a meeting for all the students interested in studying abroad. That was my case; I had several destinations in mind: Italy, Greece, France, and even some Scandinavian options like Norway or Denmark. 

How did I end up choosing Poland? It was the most affordable option for my family, as simple as that. Everything was arranged and confirmed; the following year, in September, I would be moving to Wroclaw, Poland.

But then, something terrible happened worldwide: COVID-19. Lockdowns, restrictions, and numerous problems disrupted my plans. After contemplating it countless times, I decided to take the risk and embark on a new adventure abroad. And just like Will Smith in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, my life got flipped upside down. And I’d like to take a minute, just wait right there, I’ll tell you how I started to love Polish fresh air.

On September 12th, 2020, I arrived at a student dormitory called Olowek, where I was about to experience the best year of my life. I encountered numerous wonderful people during my stay and gained extensive knowledge about Poland’s history, culture, and people. Poland, particularly Wroclaw, left an indelible mark on my heart. After living there for 10 months, I returned to Spain to complete my studies. To do so, I had to write a thesis and chose to delve into the historical memory and democratisation process of Poland. It was a resounding success, earning me the highest possible grade. My subsequent step was pursuing a Master’s in Contemporary History, fulfilling my aspiration to become a History teacher. However, before completing my Master’s thesis, I took a break and sought out a new international experience.

Once again, Poland emerged as the best option because I was familiar with the country and knew how to navigate life there. However, my challenge this time was finding work; I didn’t intend to pursue another Master’s degree or any further studies. I wanted employment. That’s when my friend Sandra, whom I met during my Erasmus time in Wroclaw, suggested volunteering. She was involved with INPRO, an organisation in Rzeszow. Intrigued by her work descriptions, I applied, convinced that volunteering would offer a remarkable experience. I must confess that while I went through a few interviews and trials, Sandra’s recommendation to the coordinator did provide some assistance. In the end, I was accepted, and by early August, I was preparing to move to Rzeszow.

On August 3rd, my second adventure in Poland commenced with a flight from Madrid to Rome and then onward to Rzeszow. Unexpectedly, a delay on my initial flight caused me to miss my connection to Poland. So, there I was, in Rome, with all my luggage and no flight to Poland—quite the unexpected start, wouldn’t you say? At that moment, I decided to purchase another flight ticket from Rome to Krakow later that same day. However, not only was the flight expensive, but more challenges awaited.

After waiting in the airport, I learned that the flight was cancelled, and the airline was attempting to reschedule it for the next day. We spent the entire day at the airport alongside other passengers, demanding a resolution. Eventually, after an exhausting and dreadful day, the airline arranged a hotel where we could rest until the following morning. I arrived at the hotel around 2 a.m., nearly the last of the passengers. At 6 a.m., we had to rise and return to the airport because the flight was scheduled for 8 a.m. Finally, I boarded that flight and landed in Krakow, preparing to catch a train to Rzeszow. What should have been a few hours’ trips turned into a day-and-a-half nightmare.

Following this brief yet intense experience in Italy, I arrived at Rzeszow train station, fatigued. My future flatmates, Kiko and Mariem, were waiting to pick me up. I spent my initial two days in the city resting and getting acquainted with my new flatmates and friends, being the last to arrive. My first day of work at INPRO was Monday, August 7th, and since then, I’ve been continuously learning and honing my skills.

My primary role at INPRO involves creating and facilitating workshops for various groups and participating in activities like Open Cafe, where people from Rzeszow and nearby areas gather. Additionally, I contribute to content creation for our Social Media, which I encourage you, an anonymous reader, to follow. It’s free and supports our growth, enabling us to reach more people.

Since starting at INPRO, I’ve had both highs and lows, yet overall, it has been an immensely enriching experience. I have no regrets about my decision to return to Poland. I’m eager to see what the future holds.