When I decided to join the FNT volunteering project, I had in mind that I needed a place where I
could put my social abilities to the test, whether that meant collaborating with others, speaking
up for my ideas, or taking on a more directive role. This was my main goal. I knew that other
abilities would develop along the way, and they did.
I had to face my lack of English practice, but I eventually experienced a breakthrough, since I
was forced to come up with more nuanced words or simply find better ways of expressing my
thoughts. By the end of the project, I no longer see this initial concern as a struggle. Moreover, I
know that most of my colleagues would help me if I made any mistakes.
Another activity that helped me a lot was organizing the Civic Treasure Hunt, a task that required
me to think about several things at once and to consider the consequences of the activities I
proposed for each team involved. This was also an opportunity for me to rediscover Bucharest as
a city more closely connected to European values and institutions. I developed this new
perspective thanks to a colleague who pointed out elements in the city that aligned with our
treasure hunt, which aimed to promote European culture.
Even without having much time to fully reflect on this experience, I find myself being much
more proactive in my Master’s degree classes. I also perceive challenges differently, meaning
that what once felt like difficulty now feels just like the start of a road. I feel more at ease when
approaching new people, and this is an important quality that I believe I have improved over the
past month