19 years old and barely knew what to do, where to live, who to work and spend time with or how to speak the language. This fact seemed to sink in at first when I was sitting on the airplane on my way to Saint Denis, a suburb to Paris, where I was going to spend my following 6 months. Until this moment I had not been nervous at all, just excited for my coming volunteer service. I was going to do one of the things that I love the most, play tennis, and just next to one of my favorite cities, Paris.

My mission was about teaching English through tennis to the kids living in the troubled suburb Saint Denis. The suburb is known for widespread poverty, criminality and poor integration. The organization I worked for wanted to give the young people living here the same opportunities to a good English education as the young people living in Paris. By combining English education with sports, the kids got more motivated to learn.

The suburb was just next to Paris, but the differences were terrifying. It couldn’t become more obvious when I looked out of my window at my apartment. At the horizon I could see the Eiffel Tower. Every hour it glittered for five minutes and this kind of represented the glamorous, romantic and luxurious life of Paris. But if I just lowered my gaze I saw the reality for the people living in this suburb. It was poor people, rats on the street, trash outside of the houses and people searching through the garbage. The distance was not more than some few hundred meters, but the living conditions belonged to two entirely different worlds. This taught me a lot about how unfair the world can be outside of Sweden. 

Besides the fact that the volunteering service taught me a lot about inequality and about the challenges we face, it did at the same time gave me a lot of gratitude. Never before has it become this obvious how privileged I am to live in a safe place in Sweden, with loving friends and family, good education and a high living standard.  The time in Paris also gave me memories for life and some of my absolute best moments were during my time as a volunteer. I created lifelong friendships, I saw my idols Serena Williams and Novak Djokovic play tennis and I experienced amazing adventures. It was a bit like having holiday as a profession, while I also faced developmental challenges.

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

Ágota likes STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) as subjects since she was a child. Understanding a problem and being able to solve it brought her fulfilment. She chose to study Computer Science (Bachelor degree) and AI & Computer Vision (Master degree).  

She considers herself as an enthusiastic person who wants to discover the world, therefore she took advantage of many international programmes to study or work abroad. These experiences helped her grow both personally and professionally. One of her highest professional recognitions at age of 28 was to be included in the Forbes list 30 under 30 Romania. 

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

My name is Pauline, I am a 19 year old French girl who was lucky enough to win the #DiscoverEU competition, organised by the European Commission. Thanks to this programme, I was able to make two of my dreams come true: to travel alone and to discover a facet of Europe that was unknown to me: the Scandinavian countries.

In January 2022, I learned that I had been selected to participate in this programme. During my three-week journey, I visited five countries: the Netherlands (The Hague and Amsterdam), Germany (Hamburg), Denmark (Copenhagen), Sweden (Stockholm) and Norway (Oslo and Bergen). I took fifteen trains, thirty-four hours in total, to cover more than 3,200 kilometres. Choosing the train as a means of transport is the best way to travel long distances in a sustainable way while enjoying the beautiful landscapes that Europe has to offer!

These 3 weeks were extremely enriching. Going alone allows you to expand your comfort zone: it's an opportunity to discover new lands, new cultures, new people, and thus to better discover yourself. I felt a sense of freedom and deep independence! I stayed in youth hostels, in order to meet other young Europeans, members of the great community of #DiscoverEU participants! It is a really caring environment where we can bond with many young people of different nationalities. These exchanges allow us to practise our English and above all to gain a better understanding of what makes Europe: different experiences, cultures and backgrounds, but united by a common European identity. I have always been very attached to the European Union, both in my studies and in my personal interests. So, travelling alone in Europe allowed me to really become aware of my European citizenship.

All in all, I can only praise this initiative of the European Commission, which made me grow, evolve and learn a lot about myself and others in only three weeks. This experience allows European youth to broaden their horizons and inspire them to take advantage of all the opportunities Europe has to offer. 

Whether you are alone or in a group, don't hesitate to apply to the #DiscoverEU competition: you only increase your chances of having an unforgettable experience!

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

At the beginning of 2023, three happy travelers Andres, Silver and Marko had the opportunity to participate in the Erasmus+ project "Competences and Interculturality," which took place in the city of Gymur, Armenia. Young people from five countries put their heads together for the project: Armenia, Estonia, Georgia, Italy, Moldova, France.

We came together to learn more about the eight basic competencies that are discussed in the youth passport, how to use them in youth work in general, and how to use these skills and knowledge when working in international companies. From a point of view where young people and adults of different nationalities are represented, whose cultural background may be completely different from ours. We use the discussed competencies every day, but most of the time, we are not even aware of them because it is just so natural. During our project in Armenia, however, we took things a little more seriously and focused on each competency in more detail. The workshop, during which we studied them more closely and mapped them, turned out very well. Everyone could laugh heartily, rattle their brains, and find something new in themselves that they hadn't even noticed before. We also noticed that we have been using some techniques, doing some activities quite naturally without knowing that it is related to one of the eight key competencies.

But how did this whole trip through all the competencies go? Namely, we got white "passports" and then we went on a trip. Each "state" had a different competence and related task. For example, during the analysis of mathematical-technical competence, we had to do one mathematical operation and assemble a shape from the materials provided. With language skills, we had to learn phrases, words, sentences in languages. which we do not use on a daily basis (except English), and sing a song together that is not in the mother tongue or read a poem. In each "country", when we passed the exam, the passport was stamped and we could move on to the next destination.

I can personally add here that I have come across all the competencies at home and in the past. However, I once again found a number of nuances that I use, either on a daily basis, or constantly, although I still could not connect them to the given competencies. Every time you consciously deal with them, you learn something new.

In the final phase of the project, when we had shared our experiences with others, discussed them, and found answers to questions that we had been looking for answers to for a long time, and questions that we had not thought about before but that arose during the discussions, we put our heads together again to find ways to help those who may be similar questions. Based on our personal experiences and interweaving them with those of others, we created a small collection of games, techniques that could help you get into a situation faster when different people meet who apparently have no common interests and language. Techniques that could be used especially when working with young people to help them understand the different competencies that we practice on a daily basis, and how to understand those who have different cultural backgrounds and traditions.

But in fact, the week we had the opportunity to spend in the wonderful city of Gyumri was not as hard and laborious as it might seem. All the topics and workshops that we performed during the project activities went by like a bird's eye view. Every night we had the opportunity to be a part of the culture of the participating countries. On national evenings, we could introduce our own culture and homeland, share with others our songs, dances and the best pieces of national cuisine.

This wonderful feeling and uplifting emotions that prevail after the project are indescribable. To see and be a part of a project where so many young people are together, all working to contribute so that other peers can have the same opportunities. Young people who look at what is happening around them and find that some situation is needed and can be changed for the better, contribute to it in any way they can, is inspiring. If you feel that this is what you would like to do yourself, such projects are ideal places for inspiration, to make contacts for the future, find common thoughts and ideas to implement together, share your energy and take a piece of energy home with you. .

Thank you, MTÜ Edela Eesti Development Center and Art House from Armenia, for this opportunity to participate in this project, and to everyone else with whom you could spend this week together. The contribution you make both locally and internationally can change the world view of many young people! In addition, give them opportunities that they might not otherwise be aware of and thanks to you find a vocation that they want to pursue in the future.

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

Eva was born in Greece and moved to Belgium at the age of two. She lived in the United Kingdom for several years where she studied Molecular Genetics at the University of Edinburgh (BSc) and Public Health at the Imperial College London (Master). She previously worked in the pharmaceutical industry in the fields of pharmacovigilance, medical affairs, and epidemiology. She was also a Research Consultant working on programming statistical analyses and data interpretation of clinical trials, in the field of HIV treatment. Eva undertook a traineeship program at the European Medicines Agency, where she gained experience in the evaluation and authorization process of human medicines in the EU. 

She currently works in the pharmaceutical industry in Greece as Medical Affairs Scientist. Eva’s goal is to make an impact on public health by improving the quality of life of patients, focusing on therapeutic areas with high unmet needs. Her main mission is to communicate scientific information to the medical community and to contribute to the development of innovative therapies for rare diseases. 

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

Adle Gündüz (29) is from Turkey and has been volunteering at La Strada (Emmaüs), in Antwerp, for a year through the European Solidarity Corps.

How is your volunteering experience so far?
This place is exceeding my expectations. Beforehand, I thought Europeans would be quite cold or even chilly, but that is not the case here at all. La Strada is a very warm place, there is a lot of social contact within the team and there is always a positive atmosphere. I have also learned many different things. For example, I've learned to be flexible, because every day is different here.

And how did you end up at La Strada?
I studied sociology in Turkey and then worked in a rehabilitation center for a while, but wanted to develop myself further. That's why I wanted to broaden my horizons and get to know Europe as a volunteer. Before that, I also volunteered for a while in a kindergarten in Germany, which was very nice. But at La Strada I really feel at home: here there is always action and that suits me, I like to be busy!

What does your life in Belgium look like?
I live in a studio right next to La Strada, very convenient. There is another volunteer now, Silvia from Italy. She lives in the same building. I'm very extroverted and she's more introverted, so we complement each other well.
During the weekends, I go exploring all over Belgium and the Netherlands. I have already discovered Bruges, Ghent, Brussels, Rotterdam and Amsterdam. Furthermore, I take Dutch lessons twice a week. Since a month, I also speak Dutch with the young people who come here.

What do you like about working with young people?
The first days I walked along with the supervisors, but now I also give workshops myself. Today, for example, I went shopping with the young people and we made sushi together. Thanks to the other supervisors, I now know how to get the young people on board to get creative with me. We cook, draw, play sports together, very diverse. Often very busy, but that suits me.
By also going on camp a few times, I discovered other departments of Emmaüs and got to know additional people and places in Belgium.

Would you recommend volunteering to others?
Definitely! I'm glad I'm not 18 anymore. We work here with young people who need a lot of attention, so you have to be strong in your shoes. Of course it depends from project to project. At La Strada, I receive good guidance and can always ask for help when needed. I have my hands full, but the atmosphere is always positive and I learn more every day. Highly recommended!

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

Anna was born in Italy. She holds a master’s degree in International Affairs from the University of Bologna and a Certificat d'études politiques form the university of Sciences Po Aix. 

She is part of the Middle East team in the NGO network EuroMed Rights, where she works on protection of human rights and democracy in Palestine, Egypt and Turkey. The team manages a series of projects on protection of civic space, support to Human Rights Defenders and Civil Society organisations in the three countries with a view to work towards the achievement of full respect of human rights and democracy in the Euro-Mediterranean region.

In her work, Anna fights for an empowered, independent civil society that plays a key role in decision-making. Her mission is to help build a world founded on equity, equality, diversity and sustainability.

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

I planned my trip to Europe 3 days before leaving. I couldn't decide on the destinations so I made a list of places I wanted to see and then created a route. I travelled on my own and visited 5 countries and 15 cities during 28 days. I didn't stay more than 5 days, but at least 2 nights in each country. Yes, the pace was intense but as it was my first time travelling alone, I was very excited to keep on going! I mainly did Central Europe in this order: Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Poland and then back through the same countries but to other places.

If there's one thing I remember about travelling by train in Europe, it's that all roads lead to Vienna (and not to Rome!). I've been there 3 times due to its central location linking Western and Eastern Europe. Next time I will better plan my itinerary to make a nicer round trip from France. 

I have never spoken so much English in my life, I improved a lot my vocabulary, speaking and understanding skills, it was way better than a language stay! At the beginning it's tiring, then you miss your native language, you don't know who to speak it with, and at the end of the stay, you find it hard to come back to French!

I learned a lot of things (culture, customs, language differences, opinions...) that we don't speak about at school. Everyone has always been kind to me and I have never been afraid to travel alone, on the contrary, I have never felt so free! And then, I must say that a lot of people travel alone, so it's easy to make friends! 

I mainly visited cities/villages, then I went hiking, I discovered landscapes and participated in outdoor activities. Discovering Europe through interrail is a great opportunity. I now consider myself much more European than just French. We may live in different countries, but many of us share the same values, even if of course each region has its own language and particularities... The fact that I met Swedish Slovenians, Spaniards and Czechs made me realise that we are very similar. 

Visiting Europe has broadened my vision and made me realise how big it is. It was by far the best experience of my life and I thank the European Commission again for this opportunity. I'm going to travel again with an interrail pass next summer and I will make sure to tell every 18 year-old person to apply to #DiscoverEU! At this age, all we dream about is travelling, and by organising this competition, the European Commission allowed me to realise this dream, which according to me today should be essential for every young people.

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

Gemma was born in Spain. Currently, she is working in the field of Cooperation and Development at GIZ in Brussels at the International Services Division as a Project Manager.  

She did a Bachelor degree in Law and International Relations and was an international exchange student in Japan and Mexico. This was followed by a LLM Advanced Master in International Public Law with a mention on human rights and security and defence at Université Libre de Bruxelles.  

Gemma is engaged in different projects that have a positive impact on society. She is very much involved in youth-lead initiatives that have a strong focus on strengthening and raising awareness about democracy, human rights, and justice in the EU and in the Middle East and has participated in several UN/OSCE programmes that aim at integrating youth voices into security and policy debates. 

Bringing her expertise to diverse areas of work, traveling to field missions and being surrounded by engaged professionals who also wish to contribute to building a better future are her passions. 

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

Hello young traveller! My name is Florian, I'm from Alsace and I'm currently studying in Lille, France. Last year, I won a #DiscoverEU pass after participating in a competition organised by the European Commission. I learned about this contest by chance on social networks and I can already tell you something: it's a unique opportunity! I'll explain you how I  went about organising my trip, why I went alone with my backpack, and finally how much it cost me. So if you are also interested in this contest, my testimony should interest you!

I left for 15 days between the end of July and the beginning of August to discover Europe by train. All in all, I visited 13 cities in 8 different countries (yes it's a lot in a short time, but it was totally worth it). So I went to Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, San Marino and Switzerland for a total of 2,895 kilometres on 29 different trains. You're wondering how I managed to organise myself to do so much in so little time? Well, you don't have to be an expert in organisation to do it! Choose 
your destinations according to what you like (city or nature, mountain or beach, etc.), and then check out the different transport options on the Rail Planner app. All you have to do is to book the accommodation and you're done! I personally preferred a route oriented towards nature and beautiful landscapes because that's what I prefer. Moreover, I also chose to travel only on free trains (for which I didn't need to pay extra for a reservation), because I had read stories that recommended it. Even if the travel times are often longer, the scenery and overall experience is that much more authentic in my opinion. As well as saving you a lot of money, you'll pass through some beautiful places (as the TGV usually pass through very flat and unremarkable places)!

As you may have read at the beginning, I did indeed go alone for this experience: that's probably what made it so memorable. This trip was my first solo travel experience, which means that I was not used to travelling like this at all. Although it can be scary during the organisation and preparations, you'll find that once you're on the road it's 100% fun and independent. You get up at the time you want, you visit what you want, you eat where you want, and above all, you meet a lot more people than if you were travelling in a group (because when you are alone you are necessarily more open to meeting new people)! However, choosing to travel alone can also present some difficulties once you are on the road. If you are afraid of loneliness or lack of interaction if you are shy or reserved, it is true that you won't have your friends with you to support you when you have slumps (which also happened to me and will happen to everyone). Nevertheless, it's an adventure that allows you to discover yourself personally, and above all to gain a lot of autonomy for your future life!

Last but not least, one of the most common questions when planning such a trip is: how much does it cost? To be honest, I quickly realised that this opportunity was unique. So I wanted to make the most of it, without necessarily restricting myself on every activity etc. Overall, the budget needed will depend on a lot of different factors like:

• the season of your trip (tourist or not?)
• the countries visited (Eastern countries are cheaper than Northern countries)
• the quality of the accommodation (youth hostel or hotel)
• the monuments visited and or activities...

I personally went during the tourist season but I went to countries with a relatively low cost of living. 
This allowed me to achieve a lot on a relatively "small" budget. Indeed, I went to restaurants in each country to taste the local specialities, I was able to visit a lot of places in the different cities where I went, etc.

In total, my #DiscoverEU trip cost me 710€ for 14 days of travel, divided equally between the cost of accommodation (365€) and the rest (restaurants, museums, etc). As mentioned, this amount varies greatly depending on your adventure and especially the length of your trip. So even if you only have a few hundred euros to spare don't miss this opportunity and create your own adventure!

In conclusion, #DiscoverEU is what you need if you want to have an incredible adventure through Europe, alone or with friends. Worried that you won't be able to organise your trip? Think of it as a challenge? Consider it a challenge and check out the Internet, you'll find hundreds of stories to give you all the advice you need!

Whether it is from a human or personal point of view, you will come out of this trip with a ton of memories that you will be able to tell your family and friends. Don't be afraid and go for your 
#DiscoverEU adventure!

If you want to have a look at what my #DiscoverEU experience looked like, check out this video!

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026