Once upon a time in Smolensk

By taking part in this EVS, I further developed my social skills. This kind of project is a really good opportunity for people looking to discover themselves and those looking for something new. During this project, I overcame the challenge of interacting with children and trying to understand eachother. In spite of the language barrier we managed to create a a connection and even become friends.

We can talk about multiculturalism in the context of EVS as we come from a different country, we get to know a new culture, a new language, even a new alphabet. At first, it was a bit difficult for all four of us to connect with the little ones, because only two of us speak Russian, but we learned to translate lightning fast and involve everyone. Thanks to the language classes and the strong bond between kids and volunteers, the non Russian speakers managed to get the bases and even learn the frazes needed to play, some of them by heart.

Besides games and worshops, we went on trips organised by the Center so we had the opportunity to see other places apart from Smolensk and discover a bit about the history of the Russian people. The EVS project consists of activities with children, creating workshops for them, adapting different games from our country to be suitable for them here. Our goals- to blend into this society and to have a good relationship with the kids- were met and, last but not least, our colaboration with the staff here was beneficial.

Lost in St Petersburg

EVS is not only about the work, it is also about friendship. For two months, we got along so well and became such close friends that now, with only days to go, I find myself melancholic that I am leaving and I won't get to see them so often, that we won't make jokes at one another's expense, that we won't be the four crazy girls that make a face in every photograph.

-Ana