From Greece to Rzeszów: My 1-year experience as an ESC volunteer

Time flies. I still remember the moment I packed my bags, full of nerves, excitement, and a thousand questions about what lay ahead. I had no idea what to expect.

Now, nearly a year later, I find myself looking back on this journey with so much gratitude. I think about how much I’ve grown, everything I’ve experienced, and the incredible people I’ve met along the way.

Volunteering with INPRO through the ESC program in Rzeszów has truly been one of the most transformative chapters of my life.
And honestly? I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

How it begun

I had always known about Erasmus+ and the opportunities it offers, but I wasn’t familiar with the ESC, the European Solidarity Corps. Curious to learn more and eager to volunteer abroad, I decided to explore what ESC had to offer.

While searching for opportunities across Europe, I came across a position with INPRO in Rzeszów, Poland. After applying and going through an interview, I was thrilled to be accepted, and just like that, my journey to Poland began.

Upon arriving in Rzeszów, I was warmly welcomed by the other volunteers and the INPRO team. I quickly settled in and was introduced to my main responsibilities: helping to organise and lead workshops and presentations, especially for kids, teenagers, and young adults. It was the start of a truly meaningful experience.

My work throughout the year

One of my main roles at INPRO was facilitating various activities for participants involved in Youth Exchanges, Vocational Education and Training (VET), and Professional Development Activities (PDA). I also occasionally facilitated Open Café, one of INPRO’s signature events that brings together people from diverse backgrounds to exchange ideas, stories, and perspectives in a relaxed and inclusive space.

But the task that stood out most for me, and quickly became my favourite, was visiting local schools. Throughout the year, we volunteers were invited to present to students, often about our home countries. I never imagined I’d enjoy it so much, especially since I don’t have any formal teaching experience.

To my surprise, the students were genuinely curious and enthusiastic about discovering Greek culture. These visits weren’t just engaging, they also gave me a chance to travel around the Podkarpackie (Subcarpathian) region in a meaningful and budget-friendly way. Most importantly, it offered a unique perspective: seeing what a school environment looks like from the other side, that of a teacher.

A whole new friendship

Looking back, I would’ve never imagined making so many friends, not only from Poland but from all across Europe. Being surrounded by such a diverse and supportive group of people made this experience even more meaningful.

We shared trips, meals, projects, and countless laughs. Through it all, I came to truly appreciate the power of being in a community of open-minded, creative, and kind individuals who share similar values. These friendships aren’t just memories, they’re connections I’ll carry with me long after the project comes to an end.

From Shy to Confident

When I first arrived in Poland, I was quite shy. I often stayed quiet in group settings and didn’t feel very confident when it came to public speaking or meeting new people. But over time, that started to change. Leading workshops, talking to students, and getting involved in the local community helped me come out of my shell.

I’ve become more social, more expressive, and much more confident both personally and professionally. I now feel at ease sharing my thoughts, taking initiative, and stepping into new situations. This personal growth has been one of the most meaningful outcomes of my volunteering journey.

Turning Experience Into Opportunity

After months of volunteering, I’ve come to realise this isn’t just something I did for a year, it’s something I want to keep doing. This experience has opened my eyes to the world of youth work, international mobility, and education, and it’s inspired me to pursue it professionally.

Volunteering has shown me a path I hadn’t considered before, and now that I’ve found it, I’m excited to continue walking it.

Advice for Future Volunteers

If you’re thinking about volunteering, go for it. Don’t overthink it. Don’t wait for the “perfect” time, because it will never come. Say yes, dive in, and stay open.

You’ll learn far more than you expect, not just from the work, but from the people you meet and the challenges you face. Be open-minded, stay flexible, and most of all, be ready to grow. Volunteering isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.

It’s been a pleasure working with INPRO
See you soon
Antonis