My Internship Abroad- Andria Moundoukkou
Before coming to Estonia, I was quite cautious and unsure. I wondered whether going to a country with a completely different culture, language, and way of life would be the right decision. Everything felt unfamiliar, and I questioned whether I could adapt to such a change.
Despite my doubts, I took the risk and I am so glad I did. I decided to stay open and embrace whatever I would find. In the end, the experience turned out to be far better than I had imagined. A big reason for that was IZUM, the organization where I completed my internship.
From the very first day, my supervisor Darja, an incredible leader and an inspiring person, made me feel comfortable and welcome. She gave me the space to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully, while always making me feel appreciated and supported. Her presence gave me confidence and allowed me to settle into my new environment with ease.
My internship at IZUM became one of the most meaningful parts of my personal and professional journey so far. I had the chance to see up close how a well-organized, passionate team works together to create educational programs and activities for children and teenagers that are not only creative, but truly impactful. IZUM’s commitment to quality and innovation was visible in everything they did, and their work inspired me every single day. They showed me that in order to succeed, it’s not just about hard work, it's about loving what you do and working alongside people who share the same mindset and passion.
During my time there, I was involved in various programs and activities within the organization. I helped in preschool classrooms, supported teachers, and had the opportunity to organize my own workshops based on art therapy, something I deeply care about. I also took part in activities with teenagers, where I could connect, support, and grow together with them through creative and reflective sessions. These experiences helped me understand different educational approaches and allowed me to apply my knowledge in real-life situations.
Beyond the work itself, what made the experience even more powerful was the opportunity to immerse myself in a completely different culture. I saw a new way of living, learned to adapt to new routines, and met people whose perspectives challenged and inspired me. Estonia, with its unique character and calm beauty, offered me the space to reflect, explore, and grow.
Most importantly, I met people who left a lasting impression on me, passionate educators, open-minded colleagues, and new friends who made me feel seen and heard. Their kindness, creativity, and commitment to positive change motivated me and shaped the way I now view my own future.
IZUM quickly became more than just a workplace, it felt like a safe space where I could express myself freely, take initiative, and be part of something meaningful. This experience broadened my horizons, deepened my understanding of the role education can play in young people’s lives, and strengthened my belief in working collaboratively for a better future.
I am truly grateful for this opportunity. It was a challenge, a risk, and ultimately, a transformative experience. I would highly recommend taking that step to go abroad, to explore, to learn to anyone looking to grow both personally and professionally.
Before coming to Estonia, I was quite cautious and unsure. I wondered whether going to a country with a completely different culture, language, and way of life would be the right decision. Everything felt unfamiliar, and I questioned whether I could adapt to such a change.
Despite my doubts, I took the risk and I am so glad I did. I decided to stay open and embrace whatever I would find. In the end, the experience turned out to be far better than I had imagined. A big reason for that was IZUM, the organization where I completed my internship.
From the very first day, my supervisor Darja, an incredible leader and an inspiring person, made me feel comfortable and welcome. She gave me the space to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully, while always making me feel appreciated and supported. Her presence gave me confidence and allowed me to settle into my new environment with ease.
My internship at IZUM became one of the most meaningful parts of my personal and professional journey so far. I had the chance to see up close how a well-organized, passionate team works together to create educational programs and activities for children and teenagers that are not only creative, but truly impactful. IZUM’s commitment to quality and innovation was visible in everything they did, and their work inspired me every single day. They showed me that in order to succeed, it’s not just about hard work, it's about loving what you do and working alongside people who share the same mindset and passion.
During my time there, I was involved in various programs and activities within the organization. I helped in preschool classrooms, supported teachers, and had the opportunity to organize my own workshops based on art therapy, something I deeply care about. I also took part in activities with teenagers, where I could connect, support, and grow together with them through creative and reflective sessions. These experiences helped me understand different educational approaches and allowed me to apply my knowledge in real-life situations.
Beyond the work itself, what made the experience even more powerful was the opportunity to immerse myself in a completely different culture. I saw a new way of living, learned to adapt to new routines, and met people whose perspectives challenged and inspired me. Estonia, with its unique character and calm beauty, offered me the space to reflect, explore, and grow.
Most importantly, I met people who left a lasting impression on me, passionate educators, open-minded colleagues, and new friends who made me feel seen and heard. Their kindness, creativity, and commitment to positive change motivated me and shaped the way I now view my own future.
IZUM quickly became more than just a workplace, it felt like a safe space where I could express myself freely, take initiative, and be part of something meaningful. This experience broadened my horizons, deepened my understanding of the role education can play in young people’s lives, and strengthened my belief in working collaboratively for a better future.
I am truly grateful for this opportunity. It was a challenge, a risk, and ultimately, a transformative experience. I would highly recommend taking that step to go abroad, to explore, to learn to anyone looking to grow both personally and professionally.