September, My New January

August always feels like a transitional month for me, but September has a unique energy. Perhaps because of school years starting in September, it feels more like the start of a new year than January ever does. This year, as summer came to a close, I found myself preparing for new beginnings—both personally and professionally. Everything I did felt like it belonged to the rhythm of a fresh start.

One highlight of the month was reconnecting with a friend from Turkey, with whom I had previously visited Lyon. This time, I had the chance to explore a new country and city alongside them. As I become more connected to Spain, it was fascinating to observe the similarities in language and the differences in culture. Traveling is something I’ve come to appreciate more and more, though I’ve realized that I prefer having enough time between trips to fully enjoy the experience.

With September feeling like a new year, work also picked up pace. We started diving into projects, and I focused on some that really allowed me to reflect on my growth. After nine months of volunteering, seeing how much I’ve evolved and how my skills have developed has been incredibly satisfying. The tasks that once felt challenging now seem like natural extensions of my abilities.

One of the most fulfilling moments of the month was a lunch we had with the other AMICS volunteers—both newcomers and those finishing their service. We shared food, played games, and exchanged stories about our experiences. It was heartwarming to hear everyone’s unique perspectives, especially when discussing similar situations. The sense of community and shared purpose made the gathering even more meaningful.