Reflections on My Volunteer Experience in October

As my year-long volunteer journey at the occupational center comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the lessons, challenges, and growth that this experience has brought. Working here since last November, October was particularly significant—it renewed my motivation and deepened my connection to the work.

This past month brought a unique addition to our schedule: equine therapy sessions with horses. I witnessed firsthand the positive effects this interaction had on people with mental diversity. Equine therapy is known to foster physical and emotional well-being, offering improvements in coordination, balance, and muscle tone while encouraging self-confidence, empathy, and social skills. These sessions helped individuals build trust and communication skills in a safe, supportive environment.

As my departure date in early November approaches, I feel a profound gratitude for this opportunity. My time here has boosted my confidence and given me a stronger sense of purpose in my role. This experience has shown me that while my future career may lie elsewhere, the insights and skills I’ve gained here will remain invaluable.

Volunteering in a foreign country—particularly in a language I spoke only minimally before arriving—has allowed me to grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Immersing myself in Spanish, both through daily work interactions and the language’s unique cultural context, has significantly expanded my language skills. This multilingual growth has fostered deeper connections with the staff and users, bridging linguistic and cultural divides.

In addition to language skills, this experience has enriched my personal and social competencies, strengthening my adaptability, empathy, and resilience. I have developed a practical understanding of citizenship, as I witnessed firsthand the importance of social inclusion and the collective responsibility we hold to uplift marginalized communities. My role required both creativity and initiative, as I adapted to the evolving needs of the center, supported users in therapeutic activities, and contributed to daily operations. These responsibilities honed my organizational skills and my capacity to collaborate with others on meaningful tasks.

Through regular exposure to therapeutic tools, including technology-based resources, I have also gained insights into how digital and scientific approaches can support individuals with diverse needs. Additionally, immersing myself in Spanish traditions and social norms has fostered a deep cultural awareness, and my improved literacy has enabled me to engage more meaningfully with both users and colleagues.

October has been a month of renewal and growth, providing me with a final opportunity to reflect on all that this experience has brought. I am incredibly grateful for the chance to learn from every educator and user at the center. This opportunity has shaped not only my professional skills but also my understanding of empathy, resilience, and cultural exchange—qualities I will carry forward into all future endeavors.