I am Elena, the new Spanish member of Norfolk Youth Projects. I come from Valencia, a sunny city near the sea, the third biggest in my country and where Paella comes from!

My decision to do a European Voluntary Service was taken after finishing my Translation and Interpreting Studies at university. Once I passed the final exams it was the moment to decide if I wanted to continue studying the Master’s Degree or start to work. Finally, I reached a totally different conclusion. What I really wanted was a gap year abroad, an opportunity to do something different, meet new people and improve my English.

After considering different possibilities, the EVS was the perfect option for me. I have always had this sense of belonging to a big community of countries and that is exactly the essence of the project. Moreover, Norfolk Youth Projects is focused on these kind of activities, running different programs with other European countries.

I was so happy when Norfolk Youth Projects answered my application affimatively. With their help and the help of my sending organisation, the City Council of Alzira, I could fill in all the paperwork and arrange all the necessary requierements to move abroad.

Norwich is considered one of the most beautiful cities in England. It has two universities, a hectic cultural life and lots of touristic spots to visit, for example the market in front of the City Council, the squared castle up on the hill or the impressive cathedral. It is definitely a great city to do an EVS. Moreover, with the activities NYP organises the volunteer has the opportunity to discover the city and the region.

I honestly think that it is going to be a great experience, a life-changing period in my life and really useful for my professional and personal future.