Why did you choose this workcamp?
1.English is what I’m good at
2.I love kids
3.Tallinn is a fascinating city where I want to visit
Is this your first workcamp?
Yes.
Did you have any problems with the application process?
Yes. Optimum Semper cancelled the workcamp after accepting my application. Aleksander who works for ESTES helped me out by convincing them last minute.
Optimum Semper staff later told me that the workcamp was going to be cancelled but suddenly 10 more kids
signed up so they decided to have volunteers again.
Are the information sheet and guidebook helpful? Are the aims of the project and direction to the
workcamp clearly described for you to understand? If not, what suggestion(s) do you have?
Yes they are helpful and clearly described.
What are your hopes and expectation at the beginning of the workcamp?
To experience Nordic culture and life and to make friends with local people.
Were the orientation, briefing, or evaluation sessions helpful?
Yes, very helpful.
What was the best part(s) of the workcamp?
Connecting strongly with the kids and local staff.
Were your expectations met? If yes, how? If no, why?
Yes, but not entirely. Accommodation situation and teaching schedule were briefed before and they're as
expected. Nevertheless, staff there turned out to be really helpful and showed great hospitality, especially Ann
and Julia. They were great local guides showing me and the other volunteer around town. The kids were so sweet and welcoming, not the problem teenagers I thought they would be.
What improvement can be made for this workcamp?
Julia is the only assistant to Olga, the owner of Optimum Semper. The work load seem to be too much for her,
so sometimes she would mistake the schedule or even forgot to make appropriate reservations etc., there were
a lot of miscommunication but it was understandable.
Do you have any suggestions for future volunteers?
1.Remember to bring your sleeping bag. Or you'll have a tough time sleeping.
2.Ask when you think something’s wrong. Don't assume it is the way it should be, because things there are not
very organized.
3.Don't be afraid to voice your opinion or suggestions, they will really appreciate it.
4.Estonians are the nicest people I met in Nordic/ Scandinavian area, enjoy your workcamp and make as much
friends as you can!
Was there any conflict/problems (ex. cultural differences) during the workcamp? If so, how was it resolved?
Not really, Nordic culture has a lot in common with Asian culture. For example, people take their shoes off when
they’re at home or indoor, people are always very on time, people are nice but don’t react a lot with
strangers…
Each project is meant to have an aim and for the volunteers to learn/reflect upon. Was the aim clear in your work? What did you learn?
The aim is to help others.
Any additional comments?
No.