When I arrived in Prague in late May, I was filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness. I had committed to spending two months in the Czech Republic as part of an internship course offered by CEA CAPA, volunteering with INEX, an organization dedicated to promoting volunteerism and cultural exchange. I had my initial expectations—curiosity about the new environment, anticipation of the work ahead, and a slight fear of feeling out of place in a foreign country. Little did I know that these two months would become one of the most transformative experiences of my life.
My primary responsibilities at INEX were varied and engaging. I was tasked with administrative work for the education department, assisting in creating promotional material for the PR department, and leading a workcamp. Initially, I feared that the work environment might be cold and impersonal, but I was pleasantly surprised to find a warm and friendly team that supported one another. The inclusive atmosphere made it easy to form connections and feel like a part of the INEX family.
Throughout my internship, I experienced significant personal growth. I remember having lunch with my co-workers, where we would share stories and laugh together. These moments helped me become more comfortable in the office and contributed to building meaningful friendships. The supportive environment allowed me to learn and adapt quickly, making my work more enjoyable and fulfilling.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my time with INEX was learning about and leading a workcamp. This role required me to form new connections, complete various administrative tasks, and manage various activities. It was challenging but incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact of our work on the community and the participants during the workcamp.
In addition to my primary duties, I engaged in several additional projects. I conducted research for ongoing initiatives, helped to create materials for the social media account, and assisted in campleading. These experiences honed my communication, prioritization, and leadership skills. I learned the importance of setting clear goals and working collaboratively to achieve them.
Living in a new country for the summer was both exhilarating and challenging. I had to adapt to a different culture and learn basic Czech to navigate daily life. Forming new friendships was not always easy, but overcoming these challenges made the experience even more rewarding. I learned to be more open and proactive in social situations, which helped me build lasting relationships. Taking part in the workcamp gave me the opportunity to meet new people from different countries, as well as meet more people from different areas around the Czech Republic.
The Czech Republic is a country rich in natural beauty and historical significance. I had the opportunity to explore the stunning Czech landscapes, which left me in awe. Visiting Prague’s cultural and historical sites, such as the Prague Castle, Strahov Monastery, and various churches, provided a deeper appreciation of the country’s heritage. I was able to tour several areas as well, such as the Jewish Quarter.
In summary, my volunteering experience with INEX in the Czech Republic was an incredible journey of learning, growth, and cultural exchange. I gained valuable professional skills, built meaningful relationships, and immersed myself in a new culture. I would encourage anyone considering an intern abroad opportunity or the possibility of leading a workcamp to take the leap. The experiences and memories you gain will be invaluable, and the personal growth you achieve will be immeasurable.
