What inspired you to go abroad?
I was inspired to go abroad by my desire to experience new cultures, improve my Spanish, and contribute through football.
I wanted to grow personally, meet people from different backgrounds, and make a positive impact in the community. Living abroad also allows me to learn, adapt, and see the world from a new perspective.
Why did you choose Volunteer Programs in Spain?
I chose this program because it combines my passion for football with community service and cultural exchange. It offers the chance to help integrate immigrants through sport while learning Spanish and exploring Bilbao’s unique culture. The mix of volunteering, language learning, and teamwork makes it a perfect fit for my goals.
Meeting together
What was your favorite part about Spain?
My favorite part about Spain was the warmth of its people and the vibrant mix of cultures.
I loved how everyday life revolves around community—sharing meals, enjoying football, and spending time outdoors. The energy of Bilbao, with its mix of tradition and modernity, made every day exciting and meaningful.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
What made my experience abroad extraordinary was the connection between people, culture, and purpose.
Playing football with locals and immigrants taught me the power of teamwork beyond language. Learning Spanish, exploring Bilbao, and contributing to the community made every moment meaningful and helped me grow personally and culturally.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
The local staff were incredibly supportive from start to finish. They helped with accommodation, language learning, and adapting to daily life in Bilbao.
Their guidance during football sessions and cultural activities made me feel welcome and confident. Their constant encouragement created a friendly and motivating environment.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I wish I had spent more time practicing Spanish with locals outside the program. Although I improved a lot, speaking more with native speakers would have deepened my cultural understanding and confidence.
I also wish I had explored more small towns around Bilbao to experience even more of the Basque culture.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
Playing with the community
A typical day in my life abroad started with Spanish classes in the morning, where I practiced the language and learned about local culture. In the afternoon, I joined cultural or leisure activities such as visiting museums, exploring the city, or spending time with other volunteers. Later, we played football, sometimes even on weekends, which helped us connect and have fun as a team.
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
During my free time abroad, I loved exploring Bilbao’s streets, trying local food like pintxos, and visiting nearby beaches. I enjoyed spending time with other volunteers, playing football, and discovering Basque traditions. Walking along the river or visiting museums helped me relax and appreciate the city’s culture and beauty.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I stayed in shared apartments near the school, which was very convenient. The accommodation had all the necessary comforts and was located in a safe, lively area.
What I liked best was living with people my age from different countries—it made the experience more social and fun and helped me feel at home quickly.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Every future participant should know that this program is more than football—it’s a full cultural and personal experience.
Be ready to learn Spanish, engage in community activities, and connect with people from different backgrounds. Openness, curiosity, and a positive attitude will make the experience rewarding and unforgettable.
Would you recommend Volunteer Programs in Spain to others? Why?
Ready to practise football
I would definitely recommend this program to others. It combines football, cultural immersion, and community service in a unique way. It’s a rewarding experience that promotes personal growth and cultural understanding.
The staff are supportive, the accommodation is comfortable, and the activities help participants connect with locals and other volunteers.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the opportunity to grow personally and culturally. It allows you to experience new ways of life, meet people from different backgrounds, and develop independence and adaptability.
Living in another country broadens your perspective, improves language skills, and creates unforgettable memories and connections.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
My time abroad has greatly impacted my life by making me more open-minded, confident, and independent. I improved my Spanish, learned to adapt to new situations, and discovered the value of cultural exchange. The experience inspired me to keep exploring, meeting new people, and staying involved in community projects through sport.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel, to me, means going beyond sightseeing to truly connect with people, culture, and community. It’s about learning, contributing, and growing personally while making a positive impact. Experiencing life from another perspective and creating authentic relationships make travel fulfilling and transformative.
