It’s hard to capture how incredible my experience with the Euroscola programme was. From

start to finish it was an adventure. I learned about myself, my values and my beliefs but also

about the lives and experiences of other young people. Never before have I been in a room

with so many nationalities and worldviews. It was such a formative experience that

empowered me to share my opinions and even change some of them as I realised how my

life differed to the other people’s experiences.

I was nervous going abroad without someone I knew however I clicked instantly with the

group. We were all in the same boat making everyone more willing to meet new people and

be open with each other. This paved the way for very personal and stimulating

conversation. The supervisors were really lovely to us. Their kindness and support made us

so much more comfortable and enhanced out experience.

A trip like this was once in a lifetime and Euroscola made sure we crammed as much

sightseeing in as possible! We visited the Colmar Christmas markets where we saw the

whole world from the top of their Ferris wheel. We saw Heidelberg castle and learnt about

its rich history. But my favourite trip was to the markets in Strasbourg and the Cathedral

where we had the freedom to explore the beautiful city. I really appreciated the freedom

we were given and I enjoyed being able to move comfortably at my own pace and explore

what interested me.

My day in the European Parliament allowed me the opportunity to talk with so many people

from other countries. I talked with people from very different backgrounds and countries I

have never even heard of, yet we somehow found similarities. Although we had different

opportunities in life, outlooks and education systems we had similar interests, and all want

to improve the world around us. A standout moment was learning about the political and

cultural situation in Cyprus and how it affected the girl sitting beside me and her family.

Hearing her story highlighted the importance of dialogue and always striving for peace.

The Euroscola trip acted as a catalyst in my own social conscience, and it gave me memories

I will treasure for a lifetime. A fantastic experience that I couldn’t recommend more.

Thank you