My EVS Experience;)

     Heey future volunteers...I am Ergün from Turkey. I have done my service between 02.2011-01.2012 in Villaggio SoS di Saronno. Saronno is located very close to Milano and Como.

     Being volunteer in Villaggio di Saronno was an amazing experience. All people who are working, doing local volunteering were so gentle with me. Of course I had difficult times but with support of them I have solved easily.

     I would say that if you will able to make EVS, would be experience of your life. Also you have to prepare yourself for that adventure...

I tried to collect what I learnt during that year but it was not easy. Here are what i was able to write.

     Even I already experienced in various learning styles, found many opportunities to learn independently of others. Increasing the need for self-motivation and working by self and managing own time to be effective, meet budget limitations and responsibilities. I have discovered many talents of mine about dealing with loneliness and realizing my learning outputs. Also I have learnt Italian language from zero knowledge. There were also many opportunities to learn new ways of communication with diverse groups.

     Since I had been studying English language for over 10 years and having had the opportunity to make friends from all around the world with whom I also communicated in English in my previous projects, it was difficult for me to adapt to using Italian as the daily language. But I got used to it in a while and was easily able to understand my friends and colleagues as well as being able to express myself to them. When I was expressing myself I never minded to make mistake, I always see that moments as a learning opportunity.

     Now have passed an exam on Italian language and now I have A2 level certificate.

I wish a great EVS experience to everybody ;)

Hugs from Saronno ;)

Ergün Issız

24.12.2011