Hi everyone!

I’m Jolanta from Poland and this is my 6th day in Skopje while writing this introduction. Not so long ago, but what already feels like ages, l was rushing to work in another capital city — Warsaw. I didn’t feel like I was going to continue moving in the right direction, so I decided to rewrite my story and try something new. If you don’t like the story you are in, you have the ability to turn the page, write a completely new chapter, or start an entirely new book. I might sound like a book nerd, but sometimes it can be as simple as that. You are the author of your story. Oh, and I love reading books, so I won’t be offended if you call me a book nerd. Except for books, I enjoy beautiful surroundings, sunrises and delicious food.

Since leaving the nest, I packed my life into bags a couple of times and moved from place to place, city to another city. Now, I am thrilled to be in Macedonia! Macedonia is Skopje, my new home. VCS, my new family. It is a loving and caring place. The mix of new and old, beautiful and eccentric. It is everything that I am still learning about. Being a full-time volunteer for VCS is the next step in my life odyssey. Each journey, each visited place, all the jobs I have held and all people I have met are a new experience, a gigantic dose of knowledge and a roller coaster of emotions. Everyone is extremely supportive and fun in VCS, therefore even if I am uncertain what the future holds, I feel at ease. I expect only the best from being here.

I am aware of the fact that volunteering with VCS within the European Solidarity Corps is a privilege.  I’ll do everything within my power to help the organization and work like crazy if needed. I will also try to learn from people around me as much as possible during my 12-month project. If you made it to the end… I love hearing other peoples’ stories, maybe soon I will have a chance to hear yours.

Lots of hugs and no more ughs!

Jolanta Ciopcińska