My European Solidarity Corps Experience - Maria Herr

 When I moved to Ireland for an Erasmus+ programme in my last year of university, I fell in love with the Irish people, their culture and Cork, the city I lived in. I was determined I wanted to stay a little bit longer and find a job. I had studied politics and cultural studies, but realised I wanted to pursue a career in social work after having taken social work modules during my Erasmus. But when I looked into finding a job in this field, I felt I was lacking work experience. So it was a little bit difficult to find a full-time position straight away. 

It was through friends that I found out about a youth organisation looking for an ESC Volunteer. I didn’t know much about ESC but was immediately convinced by the prospects to stay in Cork, gain some practical experience and develop my professional skills. 

I am halfway through my 7-month-long placement and so glad I took this opportunity. My tasks are very versatile, from everything in podcast recording, to film projects and helping to plan activities for young people. And on top I get to travel around the island and meet lovely people. 

It is a good first professional experience because I can dip into many different projects, get to participate in trainings and workshops and can look over the shoulders of my experienced colleagues, while at the same time not feeling the pressure of a regular full-time job.

Everyone has been so nice to me and welcomed me into the team, which has made everything even easier. 

I can only recommend doing a European Solidarity Corps. The opportunity to explore a new culture, enhance your professional skills and language abilities, and make great friends along the way is truly a valuable experience. Plus, you get to tab out of your life back home for a little while. Or who knows, maybe you stay forever. 

As for me, I see this as a great opportunity to start my professional career. For now, I want to continue working in youth work and will take all those learnings from my time as an ESC Volunteer to apply them in my next job.

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026