It’s incredible to realize how much has changed – how much I’ve grown and how deeply I’ve connected with my experience in Izmir. What once felt unfamiliar and uncertain now feels like home, and this journey continues to be instructive.
One of the biggest changes I’ve noticed is how comfortable I feel communicating in Turkish. Conversations that once required effort now flow naturally, and I truly enjoy expressing myself in the language. Whether it’s chatting with friends, negotiating at the market or sharing stories with locals, speaking Turkish has become a source of joy and connection for me!
Travel has remained a key part of my experience. Since my last reflection, I’ve visited Urla and Şirince with friends; both offering beautiful scenery and a peaceful escape from the city. I also took a trip back to Germany, my home, for a week. It was refreshing to reconnect with familiar places and people, and I returned to Izmir with renewed energy! 🙂
One of the highlights of the past months was having my best friends visit me in December. While most of the other volunteers went home to celebrate Christmas, I was lucky enough to have my friends by my side. Their visit made the holiday season special, and I never felt lonely. Instead, we created wonderful memories together, exploring the city and simply enjoying each other’s company.
Beyond traveling and reconnecting, I’ve also embraced new activities. I played a lot of soccer outside, enjoying the simple thrill of the game and the teamwork it brings. One of the most meaningful experiences, however, was volunteering at a soup kitchen—helping prepare soup and then distributing it to those in need. This small act of service reminded me of the power of community and kindness and I will definitely stick to this activity!
Looking back, these six months have shaped me in ways I never expected. I’ve learned to embrace uncertainty, trust in my abilities, and find confidence in the unknown. Challenges that once seemed overwhelming now feel like opportunities to grow. I’ve built friendships that feel like family, challenged myself in meaningful projects and found a rhythm in this city that now feels like my home.
As I move forward, I know that this journey is leaving a huge impact on me. With each experience, lesson, and connection, I continue to grow. This isn’t just an adventure—it’s a chapter of my life that I will carry with me forever.