A Different Perspective on Getting Accepted into ESC Projects

The application process for ESC (European Solidarity Corps) projects might seem limited to filling out forms, but it’s actually quite detailed and straightforward.

Project coordinators evaluate not only your information but also your motivation and suitability for the project. So, what should you focus on during the application process?

1. Do you understand the project’s theme? Have you read the project information booklet?
2. Is the project’s theme suitable for you?
3. Are you suitable for the project? (This is the most important point)

These factors are crucial. If any of these aspects are lacking, you risk wasting both your time and energy, and creating unnecessary work for the organization.

You might find a project’s description fantastic, saying “Wow, this is exactly the project I was looking for!” Many projects may seem perfect, and you might think “this project describes me perfectly” — to the point where you imagine your name at the bottom of the project description!

But just because a project seems perfect doesn’t mean you’ll automatically be accepted. The key to getting accepted lies in presenting yourself effectively among thousands of other applicants.

Here’s a deeper look into getting accepted:

Every day, numerous projects are published on the ESC portal, and thousands of people apply, with many sending applications to multiple organizations. Think about why the project coordinators should select you. If you effectively answer this question, the likelihood of rejection decreases significantly. With thousands of people applying, if you don’t stand out or add creativity to your application, your chances of acceptance diminish. You may not receive feedback from every project you apply to, but with persistence, you will start receiving positive responses and will eventually participate in projects. Consistency is crucial — not just for projects, but for many aspects of life. Believe in it.

Getting Accepted: The Process

Requirements for ESC projects vary from one organization to another. Some may only ask for a brief motivation letter through the ESC platform, while others might direct you to additional forms or request a CV. What remains consistent across organizations are some key elements they look for:

• Awareness of Volunteering: They want to see that you are aware of what it means to volunteer.
• High Motivation: Your motivation should be high and relevant to the project’s theme.
• What You Can Contribute: They want to know what you can bring to the project.
• Benefits to You: They are interested in what you will gain from the project and how it will impact you and your community upon your return.

Project themes vary widely, from activities with children to elderly care centers or festival volunteering. Each project has its unique aspects that can contribute to personal development.

A Different Approach to Getting Selected

Instead of applying just to be selected, choose the project. Apply only if it matches your interests. This will ensure you get the most out of the project, contribute effectively, create memorable experiences, and most importantly, be happy. If you apply just to get accepted, you might get into projects but may not enjoy or benefit from them as much. For instance, if you don’t want to work with children, getting accepted into a project related to children may not be the best outcome.

What to Include in Your Application

Motivation Letter:

1. Personal Information: Include your personal details, characteristics, field of study, interests, hobbies, and volunteering experience.
2. Project-Specific Details: Research the project topic thoroughly. Check the organization’s social media, read the project information booklet carefully, and review previous work done by the organization.
3. Connection to Project: Explain how the project topic aligns with your interests and what you can contribute.
4. Personal Gains: Detail how the project will help you develop, what new skills you will gain, and how it will benefit your community.
5. Local Language: If possible, use the local language to greet and close your letter. This shows your interest in the culture and can catch the coordinators’ attention.

Motivation Video:

Creating a motivation video can be a powerful addition. Aim for a video lasting 4-5 minutes where you introduce yourself, share about your family and pets (if applicable), and highlight your volunteering experiences. This visual presentation can be more impactful than a written letter. You can either make a general video about yourself or create specific videos for each project. Upload the video to a platform like YouTube or Google Drive and include the link in your application.

Final Thoughts

Don’t limit yourself to just sending a motivation letter. If a project asks for a letter but you have prepared a video, include it as well. If directed to fill out a form, often there’s a section for additional information where you can include your video link.

When applying for projects, using a video in addition to your written application can significantly enhance your chances of acceptance. My own experience confirms this — after initially receiving minimal responses with just a letter, switching to a tailored motivation letter and video led to successful applications, including acceptance for a short-term project in Greece.

That’s all for now. See you in the next blog post!