How did former FSJ participants actually experience their Voluntary Social Year? What moved them, what did they doubt, what made them happy?
Facts and figures about the FSJ are easy to find, but we asked what this experience was really like for the young people. Nina Knölli is one of the former volunteers who shares her experiences with us.
Sharing a room with 4 girls and having to stay at the JUFA hotel for a week without knowing anyone doesn't really sound like looking forward to the first week of the seminar.
But this week was the best start imaginable!
Making new friends, sharing interests, exchanging ideas with like-minded people, spending cozy and fun evenings together, mastering something together, developing personally, getting to know yourself, jumping over your shadow, growing beyond yourself.
Moments like these and many more now shape my life anew every day.
A completely new life event
... And it is precisely with these unforgettable moments that you start a completely new life event. By not only getting to know yourself, but also having the chance to gain many new social experiences.
I also hit the jackpot with my job, because I really enjoyed working at the children's home from the very first minute. Nevertheless, there were situations where I reached my limits. But it was precisely these moments that showed me that anything is possible and that I can always surpass myself.
Doing the FSJ was the best decision I ever made. From the very beginning, I realized that everyone welcomes you with open arms, regardless of your life situation.
Nina Kölli, FSJ year 2017/18
Links
Introduction: "What is the Voluntary Social Year?"
FSJ application - currently open!
We would like to thank the FSJ - Voluntary Social Year and Nina for the opportunity to publish this report! The photos were taken by the FSJ and Nina Knölli.
