Dear readers, 

My name is Lily, I am from Hungary and I spent the last five months volunteering at AJ Inter in Jerez de la Frontera. I honestly felt like these past 5 months were the fastest time of my life. I blinked twice and time just passed by, leaving me with a lot of stories, experiences and a bit of regrets wishing I have done more things during my volunteering time. Even though I have done many things, my agenda has always been fully packed… that’s why I feel this time passed by so crazily quickly.

Where should I even start…

Coming to live in Spain has never really been on my list. It was completely a last-chance decision when I saw the advertisement for AJ Inter and decided to apply. I felt a deep connection to the Mediterranean lifestyle when I was younger but growing up I realized I have more like a Nordic personality. Hence, I decided to give it a chance and fulfill my younger self’s dreams.

Well… very often in several situations I felt I did not belong here at all and actually questioned my decision why I decided to come to volunteer in Spain. Besides that, I tried my best to adapt to the culture and somehow make the best out of my stay in Jerez. After all, I learned a lot of things, I experienced situations that taught me about myself and how to deal with challenges and I made some nice memories, as well.

Highlights of my time in Spain

In my free time, I kept practicing swimming and creating social media content, and one of my nicest memories was filming in Malaga for the Andalucian Summer Meet in July. It felt like another world, MY WORLD, connecting with swimmers and being in my own element.

I also made friends with my co-volunteers often sharing stories, laughs, and some experiences together. Even though I did not hang out as much as the others did, somehow, I still got to know everyone and I was blessed to get to share experiences with these people.

However, I spent the most time with Magda after she moved to the house. We developed a very strong bond, sharing a lot of emotions, laughs, deep conversations that I will always keep in my heart.

Hosting organisation:

AJ INTER aims at developing educational projects within the European framework, especially involving young people. 

The organisation provides information about offered activities and projects, invite young people to participate and help them to create their own projects. They also give knowledge about opportunities in Europe like employment and grants. As well as promote values European awareness, solidarity, cooperation and environmental awareness.