January in Valencia: quiet days and new beginnings

January marked a return to a calmer rhythm after the busy end of the year. The days felt quieter, giving me space to slow down and reflect on everything this experience has meant to me.

Before leaving Naples, I travelled to Rome to visit some of my closest friends who live there. Spending time with them was a meaningful way to close one chapter and feel supported before moving on to the next. Moments like these reminded me of how important personal connections have been throughout this journey.

January was mainly the month of work-related goodbyes. Saying farewell to colleagues and teams was emotional, especially after sharing so many months of daily life together. Even though my European Solidarity Corps experience officially came to an end, I made the decision to stay and continue living in Valencia — a choice that reflects how deeply connected I have become to this city.

I feel sad that this experience has come to an end, but at the same time, I am truly happy and grateful that it happened. As this chapter closes, I feel excited to begin a new phase of my life, hoping it will be just as meaningful as the one I am leaving behind.