Marta López Pou

Ciao! I am Marta, from Spain, I studied social work in Madrid, Spain and I did my Erasmus in Estonia. After finishing my studies, I didn't know what to do, so I decided to look for new opportunities abroad.

I came across the European Solidarity corps and read about a volunteering with people with disabilities in Bologna. I saw it as a way of getting out of my comfort zone, meeting new people and learning a new language, but I didn't know It was going to be much more than I expected. I just needed one week in Bologna to love the city and to know it was going to be a memorable year.  
When I arrived I didn't know the Italian language and after this year I understand it and I am able to express myself in Italian. It's been a year of growth in every way, and I learned I am more capable than I thought.
​I did my volunteer in a day care center with people with disabilities, I didn't have any experience and I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy it. After these 12 months I can say I love it and I want to continue working in this field. The bond that is created with the people with disabilities and workers is very strong, like a big family.
I am so grateful to have lived this experience and to have met so many people who have become very good friends and have changed me. Volunteering abroad should be mandatory!
Bologna, giá mi manchi.

​Ci vediamo presto,
Marta