Embracing Life’s Adventures

My Journey as an International Volunteer in Turkey

As I sit down to pen down my experience as an international volunteer in Turkey, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement for the transformative journey I’ve had. Thanks to the Erasmus program and the unwavering support of the Ander team, I embarked on a journey that not only enriched my life but also broadened my horizons in ways I never thought possible. My journey began with a leap of faith and a desire to explore the world beyond my comfort zone. Landing in Turkey, I was greeted with warmth and hospitality that instantly made me feel at home. Little did I know that the coming weeks would be filled with unforgettable experiences, personal growth, and meaningful connections.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my volunteer experience was the opportunity to enhance my communication skills. Whether it was interacting with locals, collaborating with fellow volunteers, or conveying ideas effectively, every interaction served as a learning opportunity. Through constant engagement and immersion in diverse cultural settings, I honed my ability to communicate across language barriers and fostered meaningful connections with people from all walks of life. Moreover, my time as a volunteer provided me with the chance to step out of my comfort zone and embrace new experiences. From trying traditional Turkish cuisine to participating in cultural festivals, every moment was a chance to expand my horizons and challenge myself in new ways. Whether it was skiing in Ilgaz for the first time or lending a helping hand in earthquake-stricken areas like Hatay, each experience left an indelible mark on my heart. 

The camaraderie and friendships forged during my volunteer stint are perhaps the most cherished aspect of my journey. As we worked together towards a common goal of making a positive impact, bonds were formed that transcended language and cultural barriers. Through shared laughter, meaningful conversations, and moments of solidarity, I found a sense of belonging and community that I will forever hold dear. In addition to personal growth and cultural immersion, my volunteer experience also afforded me the opportunity to contribute to meaningful causes. Whether it was participating in cleanup efforts in Hatay or supporting government initiatives for earthquake relief and reconstruction, being a part of something larger than myself filled me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. As I reflect on my journey as an international volunteer in Turkey, I am filled with gratitude for the countless memories, lessons learned, and friendships forged along the way. Through the Erasmus program and the support of organizations like Ander team, I was able to embark on a transformative journey that not only broadened my horizons but also reaffirmed my belief in the power of unity, compassion, and cross-cultural understanding.

To anyone considering embarking on a similar journey, I wholeheartedly encourage you to seize the opportunity with both hands. Whether it’s volunteering in Turkey or another country through initiatives like the European Solidarity Corps and Erasmus project, the experiences and memories you’ll gain are truly priceless. Embrace the unknown, immerse yourself in new experiences, and prepare to be forever changed by the magic of international volunteering.

Lost and Found: Navigating My Journey of Discovery in Turkey

Turkey is the first country I've ever visited outside of my own, and if you had asked me what I expected to be the highlight of my first month here, I wouldn't have thought I would say getting lost; For me, being lost holds so many meanings and can manifest in different ways. I can be lost physically, emotionally, and mentally, and that's exactly what has happened here. I've found myself lost so many times that I've grown to love and embrace it. Out of the ten times I leave the dorm, I'm lost nine of those times. Strangely, I've never really felt scared. Instead, I saw it as an opportunity to discover areas I never thought of visiting. Sometimes, I would venture as far as two hours away from home. Despite the distance, these two-hour journeys allowed me to interact with locals, talk to different people, and be exposed to new situations. For me, this represents the transition phase I'm going through, and I consider this trip as a step out of my comfort zone, where I find solutions to problems I never thought I'd face.

 Amidst all of this, I'm making memories that will last me a lifetime. The first time I got lost, I befriended a police officer. It was the first time I realized I could communicate with people without fully understanding their words. Google Translate and facial expressions became powerful tools. The police officer stayed with me until I got on the right bus, which was very kind of him. The second time, I was with a bus driver who seemed angry. Despite this, he still helped me get to my stop again and even signaled to me where to go. Similar situations like this happened a lot, and while some people were rude and aggressive towards me, I still saw kindness in the majority. Dealing with various types of people, including the racist ones, has been challenging.                              However, I've learned to cope. Sometimes, life will be unkind by sending rude people, racists, or those who simply neglect and dismiss you. This was the worst mental and emotional conflict I faced abroad, but I learned to live with it and ignore it. Turkey is 98% beauty, and these people represent the 2%. I refuse to let them ruin the beauty of opportunities for me. It took time and effort, along with many breakdowns, to reach this state, but now I look back and realize I've grown ten years forward because of it. If it weren't for these people, I wouldn't have learned the art of adaptation or to always look at the good side of everything. Emotionally, I'm more capable of dealing with my conflicts and accepting others around me. I've learned to turn any situation into a positive one. Now, when bad things happen, I see them as perfect opportunities to learn so they won't happen again next time.                                                                                                                                                      I still have a month left here, a month of dealing with mean people but also a month of meeting amazing individuals who make me love life a bit more. My time volunteering in Turkey has been a journey of self-discovery and resilience. Despite encountering challenges, including getting lost and facing rude individuals, I've learned invaluable lessons in adaptation and positivity. Turkey's beauty far outweighs the negativity encountered, and I refuse to let it overshadow the opportunities and connections I've made. As I look forward to my remaining time here, I embrace each day as an opportunity to learn, grow, and appreciate the kindness and diversity that enriches this experience.

How can Volunteers stay motivated during tough times?

Volunteers may sometimes feel demotivated due to personal challenges, setbacks in their cause, or moments of frustration. This guide will help you reignite your motivation when volunteering gets tough. I'll share practical tips, helpful perspectives, and real-life examples to make navigating challenges easier. 

 1)Remember Why You Shine and Keep Your Volunteer Spark Alive What makes you jump in and help? Why do you give your time to volunteering? Think of it like a big bonfire – it burns bright because of the strong reason behind it. When things get tough, remember why you started. What's the super-cool change you want to make? Helping animals find homes? Building playgrounds for kids? Making the world greener? When you remember what excites you about volunteering, it connects right to your heart and what you believe in. Don't let the hustle and bustle bother you, Take a moment to remember the happy moments: Did you help organize a fun food drive? Remember the smiling faces! Did you teach someone a new skill? Think about their proud look! Every little thing you do calculates to something amazing. Want to keep your why super close? Write a mini-mission statement, that reminds you why you're awesome. Or make a picture board with things that show the change you dream of – like cute animals finding homes or a park full of kids playing. Seeing it every day will keep your fire burning bright! Remembering why you shine will motivate you, even when things get tricky. You're like a walking flashlight, lighting up the world with your good deeds!                                                                                                                                                           

2) feeling the Volunteer Blues? Buddy Up to Boost Yourself! Volunteering can be lonely sometimes, especially if you work remotely or in a different culture. Connecting with others who share your goals, challenges, and joys is important. Ever feel like you're volunteering on a solo island? Especially when things are different across cultures, it's easy to get lonely. But guess what? You're not alone! Here's how to find your volunteer crew and feel awesome again: Reach out and Chat with other volunteers, mentors, or even the awesome staff. Share stories, ask for advice, or just say & quot; hi! & quot; Remember, they were once new too! Get feedback and cheers, Don't be shy! Ask others what they think you're doing great. Hearing amazing words from others can seriously fuel your fire. By connecting with others, you'll feel more like part of a superhero team! You'll be surprised how much fun, support, and motivation come from having mate volunteers by your side. So go forth, connect, and keep doing those amazing things!                                                                                                                                    3)Take care of yourself Volunteering can be demanding and stressful, especially when facing difficult situations, high expectations, or limited resources. You need to take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally, to avoid burnout and maintain your motivation. You can practice self-care by setting healthy boundaries, managing your time and energy, getting enough sleep and rest, eating well, exercising, meditating, or doing any other activities that make you happy and relaxed. Remember, you can't pour from an empty cup. By taking care of yourself, you'll have more energy, enthusiasm, and strength to keep making a difference in the world! So go forth, be kind to yourself.                    

4)Learn and grow the act of volunteering also presents unparalleled opportunities for personal growth and learning. Volunteering is a great opportunity to learn new skills, gain new knowledge, and explore new perspectives. Be it mastering new technical skills for digital literacy or learning to communicate effectively. stepping outside your comfort zone simplifies adaptability and flexibility. By embracing challenges and unfamiliar situations, you unlock hidden potential and discover previously unknown strengths. Remember, The learning journey through volunteering is unique to each individual. Give the opportunities that come your way, be open to new experiences, and actively find learning moments. As you start doing your job and connecting with others, you'll be surprised by the personal growth that volunteering unlocks. So, don't just volunteer to make a difference in the world; volunteer to make a difference within yourself.   

 5)Have fun: Volunteering should not be all work. You should also have fun and enjoy yourself while doing something good for others. Having fun can help you reduce stress, increase positivity, and increase motivation. You can have fun by adding some humor, creativity, or gamification to your tasks, or by rewarding yourself with something you like. You can also have fun participating in social events, activities, or hobbies with other volunteers or friends. fun boosts your spirits, and keeps you motivated. Volunteering doesn't have to be a solo mission! participate in fun activities or simply share laughs and stories over a shared meal. Building friendships strengthens your support network and makes the whole experience more enjoyable. Remember, having fun should not decrease the importance of your work.  Remember, every act of kindness, every learned skill, and every moment of joy makes a difference, both in the world around you and within yourself.

Spontaneous trips are the best trips: Our Experience in Bursa and Must-Visit places here

 Have you ever embarked on a journey with no plans, just following your gut and strong feeling of wanderlust? That’s what we did with our girl company. The Night before our weekend we chose the destination which was a really hard choice, booked everything, and immediately started packing luggage's. Bursa, a city located in northwestern Turkey is nestled at the foothills of Mount Uludağ, that’s why it is often referred to as & quot; Green Bursa & quot; due to its lush surroundings. The city boasts a really rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and a vibrant cultural scene. As one of the earliest Ottoman capitals, Bursa is steeped in centuries of history and is home to a wealth of architectural treasures, including mosques, tombs, and just ancient houses where once were living people of the magnificent Ottoman empire. So, if you are a huge fan of Muhteşem Yüzyıl or just Ottoman culture like me, you will definitely love it! Every corner of Bursa old town is worth seeing. It is a maze of narrow streets lined with traditional Ottoman houses, historic landmarks, and bustling markets.

● For example, The Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii), with its imposing architecture and stunning calligraphy, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks, built in the 14th century.      

● Koza Han (Silk Bazaar) will offer you a step back in time to the Ottoman era when it was a center of trade and commerce. Here and in a couple of bazaars around Ulu Cami you can find any traditional or modern souvenirs and gifts you want.            

● For a deeper understanding of the Bursa's pivotal role in shaping Turkish history, visit numerous tombs where the most prominent figures of the Ottoman empire are resting. It’s the Tombs of Osman and Orhan Gazi, the fathers of Ottoman empire, Green Tomb of Mehmed I, and Muradiye Complex, consisting of 12 tombs. Among another interesting places, there are also ancient Bursa Castle and Tophane Clock Tower, the symbol of the city’s modernization and progress, both offering panoramic views of Bursa; historical Irgandi Bridge which has been claimed locally that it is one of only four bridges in the world housing bazaar; Turkish & Islamic Art Museum. And don’t forget about local food of Bursa, because no trip to this city would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. From mouth-watering kebaps to desserts, Bursa's cuisine is a feast for the senses. We tasted traditional dishes such as İskender kebap and tried local specialties like candied chestnuts and pişmaniye. It was literally fantastic, even though we could barely walk after these culinary masterpieces.                                                                                                                                                  Now I would like to reveal for you some hidden gems and my favourtie spots of the city which are maybe not that obvious as they lay in the outskirts of Bursa, beyond the bustling city center, but they should be on your bucket list!                                                                                                                      ● Inkaya Tarihi Çinar: one of the most famous symbols in the city of Bursa. This massive tree is over 600 years old, 37 m tall, 3 m crown diameter, has a 10 m circumference and is claimed to be the biggest and oldest tree in Turkey. Its branches are so huge that some metal constructions had to be installed to keep it above the ground. But this place is not just about the tree. The whole area including open-air cafes and restaurants, cozy shop selling traditional stuff, little streams between the tiles flowing under your legs and incredible breathtaking view of natural landscapes makes me feel like I am in a fairytale and gives me shivers

                               ● Cumalıkızık: This little village with a 700-year-old history which is still intact,  represents traditional Ottoman residential architecture and is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Most of the houses continue to be used as residences by locals, and that’s why the village is so popular. They are trying so hard to create the charming historical atmosphere for visitors. Their quaint souvenirs shops offer all sorts of traditional things for reasonable prices while their cafes serve traditional Turkish breakfasts which I strongly recommend to try (P.S. it was the most delicious breakfast in my life).         

                               ● Mudanya: Located a bit aside from Bursa, along the shores of the Sea of Marmara, this cozy coastal town will distract you from hustle and bustle of the city and just let  you rest. Walking along the shore, enjoying the breeze and local sea- or just street food make you relax. But of course this place is not left without some historical importance. Probably the most crucial moment in the history of the Republic of Turkey took place here, in the Mudanya Armistice House. In 1922 in this building the treaty, marking the end of the Turkish War of Independence, was signed, internationally acknowledging the Republic of Turkey. Visitors can tour the historic house, which has been preserved as a museum, and learn about legendary negotiations that took place here. 

  Shortly, my happiness about this trip cannot be even described. From the sea to the mountains, from wonderful nature to rich historical heritage, Bursa just took my heart and left me with lifetime memories. And I’m so glad to give you a little guide through this city and maybe inspire you to go on that trip you’ve been already thinking about for a long time. Go and explore! Adventures are waiting for you:)

Erasmus+ program: Foreign students can study in Turkey

Knowledge is useless unless it is shared with others.'~ Erasmus The European Commission has created a one-of-a-kind opportunity for international students to broaden their knowledge and cultural experience by improving the quality of their education through international exchange. The Erasmus+ program allows students to pursue higher education in participating countries such as Turkey. Let us tell you about the exciting experience of studying in Turkey through the Erasmus program. Information about the Erasmus+ program in Turkey can be found on the European Commission official website and at https://www.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr/. Receiving a scholarship is determined by several factors, including the number of available spots and academic performance. Turkish universities are well known for providing excellent education. They provide adiverse range of academic programs and courses in a variety of specialties. International students have access to cutting-edge infrastructure and resources, as well as the opportunity to interact with highly qualified teachers and researchers. According to studies and surveys, the majority of students who participated in the Erasmus+ program in Turkey were extremely satisfied with their experience. They are enthusiastic about academic opportunities, cultural experiences, and interactions with local students. The program helps to foster international understanding and a stronger bond between cultures. The Erasmus+ program in Turkey offers international students an excellent opportunity to receive a quality education, broaden their cultural experience, and enrich their knowledge. The possibility of receiving a scholarship helps to reduce the financial burden.

Hello, I am Elly.

Hello, I am Elly. My second month in Ankara just ended and I have a few observations that I would like to share with you and prepare you for some facts before you arrive in Ankara.

The first thing I still can't get used to is the fact that people don't know the traffic rules here. This applies to both pedestrians and car drivers. Do not hope in vain that any driver will give way to you at the zebra crossing. Even if you try to cross a zebra crossing, they won't stop the cars and start shouting at you from the open windows, when they should be giving way.

As for pedestrians, when you are on your way and walking straight, they will start moving in your direction, even though there is a lot of space, they will come in your direction even if you try to avoid them and they will hit you, or run over your shoulder, or run over your foot. I don't know why they like to crash so aggressively, but they do it every time.

Another fact, "Ankara çok kalabalık", which means that Ankara is very crowded. Even in one small corner, many people can be crowded together and make too much noise. For me, coming from a town, it was difficult to get used to the noise and crowds. I remember the first month I was here, even if I went for a short walk I would come home with a headache and feel constantly tired. I'm not like that now, I think I'm slowly getting used to it.

As you can see, Ankara is a bit dangerous at first for people who don't know the place yet. Therefore, keep in mind that you should always be attentive and caref
ul when walking on the street. You will get used to the noise and crowds over time. But if you have the opportunity, you should visit this place. I've spent the most special two months of my life here.

Traveling in Turkey while volunteering ?

Traveling in Turkey while volunteering ?

Hi everyone I’m Molka , 23 years old Tunisian ecological Designer , this is my second month in Ankara ( It’s july 2023 ) and I want to share with you my experience in traveling during volunteering .During this volunteering program i had the chance to discover turkey , of course you can say how did you manage your money ? specially you know we only receive small amount as pocket money .. but this experience teaches me how to manage my personal expenses .first month is the month where you test yourself .. what you can buy what you can cook .. food packaging here in Turkish so sometimes you think it’s a product then you discover it’s something else or with a different taste ( it happened to me and after that i ask my friends who understand turkish ) .. then according on

how you want to spend the holidays ? you want just to discover something you never saw or you love mountains or the sea and which type of sea here you have a choice.. for me it was easy my friends who knows my choice they were here       

before and helped me with good recommendation. My first trip was to Istanbul i was alone no internet just i have whats app conversation between me and best friend , the magic of traveling alone and following your spirit and intuition is what i lived . i discovered new places other than my friend suggested , met people who became now my friends , built new connections , loved Istanbul on my way . ‘the most valuable experience that you live in your life is when live it alone 'and experience that 

 ‘ and for me i love my company and i enjoy spending time alone . i went to princes island and there i had such wonderful experience crossing bosphor first time with bus going to the Asian part and when i came back i asked another bus driver he showed me the ferry it was waaw the with sunset and also in this small trip i had new friends. Second month i went to İzmir! Oh İzmir my recovery ! i'm from Mediterranean and i struggled the fısh , nı sea, nothing is similat to my preferences in Ankara ! but when i went to izmir i felt home! actually Izmir trip was more expensive but different . in each trip i meet new people that they becomes my friends , i met too girls that later they showed me other parts from Izmir as local people . All i want to say in this articis if you learn how to calculate your money , and you set your priorities so you can do whatever you want .of course you will not be in a very luxurious trip , you may prevent yourself from some stuff , it depends on each person preferences , for me i had two only goals : discover istanbul and izmir . but i didn’t planned to anything else . i limited my budget for other things and i choose traveling . for me if you have small budget you have to search more in airbnb , choose a cheap bus (i didn't choose comfort) the is more important .cook for yourself it’s cheaper but also you can try some specific or local things . get to know people they may help you they may make your trip more comfortable. negotiate when you feel is someone is trying to use you because you don’t understand the language . learn some words : left right , how to go ? how much ? some numbers ... and always have internet to check bus or any transportation , for example in my izmir trip i went to cecme which is a place you can go to with special bus that Google maps doesn’t show you , but local people knows , from where it will pass , where to find it ...

Generally human beings they attract who they are , if you are a good person looking for adventure you will attract good people who will help you , and be part of your adventure . and the most important is to let go and enjoy that you are volunteering and also discovering this country .