When I first found out I had to take an 11-hour train ride to attend the ESC Midterm Training, I felt a wave of anxiety wash over me. For months, I had built a sense of stability in my city, and the thought of being confined to one place for so long made me uneasy. However, what started as a source of apprehension turned into an unexpectedly uplifting experience.
As I boarded the train, I discovered that I wasn’t alone. Sharing my cabin were three other ESC volunteers heading to the same training. It was such a pleasant surprise! We spent the journey exchanging stories about our time in Timișoara and sharing insights about our projects. The camaraderie we built during those hours eased my nerves and set the tone for the days ahead.
Upon arriving at the hotel, I was relieved to find that the first day was designated as a rest day. This gave me the chance to explore the city and appreciate the change of scenery. After spending seven months in the same city, I realized how much I had needed this trip. Slowly, my initial anxiety about traveling began to fade as I watched more volunteers arrive and started meeting new people.
The first day of the training itself was casual and welcoming. Icebreaker activities helped us warm up to one another and connect with the facilitators. I had the opportunity to share my project with other volunteers, which was both inspiring and motivating. However, as the only one who came alone, I initially found it challenging to connect with others who had arrived in groups.
By the second day, the atmosphere had completely shifted. The group dynamic became vibrant and inclusive, and I started to feel more at ease. One of the highlights was a treasure hunt in the city, which involved filming interviews with volunteers and locals. It was not only fun but also a great way to bond with my fellow participants.
The third day was all about wrapping up the training and consolidating everything we had learned. We focused on goal-setting for the remainder of our projects and were introduced to the concept of the Youthpass. These sessions gave me a clearer vision of what I want to achieve in my remaining months as a volunteer.
Of course, no journey is complete without a little hiccup. I ended up missing my train home! Thankfully, the organization was incredibly supportive and helped me book another ticket, which I deeply appreciated.
Reflecting on this experience, I can confidently say that this journey came at the perfect time. It gave me the space to reflect on my progress, regain motivation, and connect with like-minded individuals. The positive energy I gained from the training has left me in an amazing mental state, ready to tackle the final months of my project with renewed enthusiasm.
Sometimes, stepping out of your comfort zone leads to unexpected rewards. This midterm training was more than just a few days of workshops—it was a reminder of the power of connection, reflection, and growth.
