Miglė's journey to the European Solidarity Corps began with a short training in Turkey on digital tools. There, conversations with organizers about European opportunities sparked her interest, leading her to an Italian volunteering program with "CSV Lombardia," a non-profit that helps people find volunteer opportunities and advises on establishing NGOs. Her host city, Cremona, with only 80,000 residents, surprised her with its vibrancy and initiative. "Concerts on Monday nights, so many initiatives!" she exclaims. She noticed Italians actively foster connections, embodying the local saying, "nothing will happen if we don't create it." The activeness of the elderly, frequenting bars and participating in initiatives, particularly impressed her. Miglė, like many graduates, was uncertain about her post-Bachelor's path. Spending six months in another country, trying herself in a different environment, felt like a perfect opportunity. She admitted initial fears of monotonous work, but the Italian staff understood the temporary nature of volunteering and encouraged her to try diverse tasks. Her first impressions were excellent, partly due to a prior positive Erasmus+ experience in Padua. The warmth and openness of her colleagues stood out. Her mentor invited her to dinner with friends on her very first evening. "It surprised me how easily Italians communicate and accept a complete stranger." Challenges arose with daily meetings conducted in Italian; by day's end, she understood but struggled to respond verbally. A surprising cultural discovery was seeing Italians wear shoes indoors, a minor shock. Yet, the team's constant support and willingness to "fuss over her" was a welcome revelation. "They constantly reminded me that I could ask questions, gave recommendations on how to approach certain tasks." Miglė's Wisdom for You: "Changing your environment changes so much in your life. If everything is slipping through your fingers, sometimes you just need to change your environment, and many problems will solve themselves." She's a true advocate for Erasmus+ and encourages anyone undecided about their future, or those without extensive financial resources, to seize these opportunities. "To truly know a country, you need to meet its people and immerse yourself in its culture, which is why these long-term projects are the best way to travel." Her practical advice: "Ask as many questions as possible during interviews – where exactly you'll go, what you'll do. Don't be afraid to ask to modify the project; organizers are often open to changes." And for those struggling to get in, "don't be afraid to write personally, sometimes that's the only way you get a response."