Hey there dear reader! I am Fruzsina from Hungary, 24 years old, currently participating in the long term ESC project “Be Green” here, at Camping Le Belvédere. I received my bachelor’s degree in molecular bionics engineering roughly a year ago, and taking a leap, I did not apply to any masters right away.
After the strict academic study and mostly hypothetical curriculum, I knew I needed something different, a more practical way of learning. I have always been fascinated by biology, the ways of nature and was drawn to the humble beauties of living a simpler, slower and more sustainable life. That is why I turned to ESC projects, especially looking for the ones with regard to sustainability and minimal living. And that is how I ended up here, working with IDC.
Here at the camping, nature is right outside my door. I spend my days working in the garden, watching the slow changes of the season, enjoying the sunshine, while learning about the use of herbs, natural gardening and so much more. I also hoped to be part of an international team of volunteers coming from different cultures, creating and shaping a community together – and, in a way, I do have that. But you know, things never really happen exactly the same as you thought they would – in my case, well, coronavirus happened instead…
With this whole strange situation, I am the only new volunteer who actually arrived for the project. Not quite what I expected! But I quickly realised how lucky I am to be here during these times. Turns out, quarantine and social distancing is not that bad if you have a garden, animals to care for and a friendly little family to be part of. Not from new volunteers, but I still have a community with the owners, workers and intern – living, working and trying sustainable solutions in everyday life together. Of course I am waiting for all the others to come and for the buzzing community life – but I am also grateful for being where I am right here, right now.
