Meet Jeanne Dournel, a young woman from Paris who decided to take a break after university and make the most of her gap year – by volunteering in the city of Split through the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) programme. Jeanne has always been drawn to learning through hands-on experience, discovering new cultures, and making a positive impact in the community along the way.
– I graduated in urban planning, and before that I completed a bachelor’s degree in sociology and geography. I wanted to take a break before starting a full-time job, and instead of simply resting, I chose to volunteer, – said Jeanne, who met two other ESC volunteers at Sunce: Sanja Mirceva and Martina Cekova.
A French lifestyle in Croatia
As she explains, taking a gap year to volunteer or travel is quite common in France. She found volunteer projects through the official European platform and began searching for the ideal opportunity; one that combined her interests in the environment, urban spaces, and social issues.
– I didn’t have one specific destination in mind, I was searching by topic. My priority was projects related to the environment and urbanism – something connected to my field of study. I applied to several projects, including this one in Croatia. I had visited the country a few years ago and remembered it very fondly, – she recalls.
Volunteering and exploring Croatia
Today, she volunteers at Sunce, where she takes part in a wide range of activities (such as the Exchange Fair) that vary from week to week. She has also enjoyed exploring the country: from Zagreb to Dubrovnik, as well as smaller towns like Orahovica and Trogir.
– I really like Split, and I especially enjoy going to the seaside and travelling around Croatia. I’ve managed to see so much, and every place has its own charm, – Jeanne points out.
Coming from one of the largest and fastest-paced cities in Europe, Jeanne admits that the change of rhythm has been refreshing. While there are no major cultural differences, she has noticed certain nuances in everyday life.
– Of course, not everything is the same, but there’s no big difference that caught me off guard. I would say the pace of life here is slower and more relaxed, which actually suits me, – she says.
She particularly highlights the working atmosphere at Sunce as dynamic, diverse, and motivating.
– It’s really interesting at Sunce. We’re constantly doing something new, with different events and learning opportunities. Every week is different, and that’s what keeps me motivated, – Jeanne emphasizes.
A message to young people: Just go for it!
Through her experience, Jeanne shows how much a single year can mean in terms of broadening perspectives, building confidence, and discovering personal interests. Her message to young people considering volunteering through the European Solidarity Corps is clear and inspiring:
– My advice is very simple: just go for it. And most importantly, enjoy every single moment!
