Why did you choose this program?
I was doing some volunteer work in Ukraine and tried to find a program there. For obvious reasons, this could not happen right now, so I tried Poland. It was on the way and I had other reasons for wanting to spend some time there. It gave me the opportunity to visit the famous shrine of the Black Madonna at Jasna Gora - one of the most famous churches in Europe.
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
I’m used to traveling so I was familiar with most procedures. The security check was the most irksome as I thought the DBS check from my college would do. But in the end I signed up for the annual renewal service, which will smooth things over for future jobs like this. As I was heading to the venue unity my own vehicle, I didn’t need a lot of the assembly coordination.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
Join in! Relax! Be professional! The English learners have paid a lot of money for something over and above what they could learn chatting in a bar on the Costa. Engaging with them will broaden your horizons. Also, make good use of the time to visit the points of interest. You will make good friends on the program whose advice on where to go will be a great help. And get one of those currency converter cards for paying for stuff. I got a Monzo card and keeping that topped up saved me a packet on bank charges.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
Breakfast at 8.00, which is a late start for me. Conversation practice and exercises from 10.00 til 14.00. A 10 minute break each hour and coffee and tea laid on the whole time. Lunch at 14..00 with a break ti 16.00. More exercises until dinner at 19.00. Some nights there was a final exercise at 20.00, but mostly we were free. It could be quiet time or a drink in the bar as you wished. It was a great time on our program for getting to know our Polish participants in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
My fear is always losing my passport or phone, or the use of it. How dependent we are on that little box! I make sure I have zip up pockets in my jacket or pants, as I’m getting more forgetful. A powerful power pack and travel plug help too. I’m also conscious of being an easy mark for pickpockets when traveling alone so try to keep moving briskly from place to place! Though in Poland I’ve never felt safer. You can sit on a bench and watch the world go by with no hassles.
Where to next?
Honestly I’m up for another trip to Poland. I was fascinated by the place and the people. I’m a history buff and the Poles have gone through a lot in the last century. That their country is so fresh, beautiful and full of vitality is a testimony to the spirit of its people. Other destinations, like Italy or Spain, tend to grab the spotlight. But, for scenery, activities, history, food, Poland’s got it all. Let’s keep it our secret!