Ever wondered what it would be like to just go—to click that “Apply” button and see where life takes you? That’s exactly what Mila did, and two months and five days later, she’s writing to us from her host home in Italy, full of stories, memories, and zero regrets.
It all started on a regular day at home.
I was sitting in my family house, laptop in my lap, when I stumbled across a cultural exchange program by CAR. At first, I was skeptical. I kept reading about the benefits, the requirements… and then I just clicked apply without overthinking. That’s the moment I decided to add a little Italian color to my life.
Her goal was simple: get to know herself better, explore her possibilities, and push the boundaries of her comfort zone. She arrived in Italy with a mix of excitement and uncertainty, but was welcomed by a warm, open-hearted family who instantly made her feel at home.
They took me in as their daughter, their big sister.
And none of this would’ve been possible, she insists, without the support of her coordinator Dragana.
From the very beginning, she guided me through the process, and even after I arrived, she was always just a message away. That meant a lot during those early days when everything felt new and unfamiliar.
Mila’s Italian adventure wasn’t just about sightseeing—it was about real connection.
I spent my days with the kids, going to the beach, cooking, laughing, and learning. They filled my days with joy, tears, curiosity, and love—the way only kids can.
From learning new recipes with the children’s mother to exploring nearby towns and even taking a trip to Croatia, Mila made the most of every moment.
And somewhere along the way, I started understanding and speaking Italian.
Looking back, she says the experience has changed her.
I’ve made lifelong friends, discovered new sides of myself, fallen in love with a culture, and truly grown. I didn’t want to share my story until I was close to the end—until I was sure it had all sunk in.
Her advice?
Don’t be afraid of change. If you feel even the slightest spark to do something different, follow it. Type in Centar za afirmaciju i razvoj, look through the programs, and take the leap. I did, and it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done. Who knows—maybe I’ll be back on that site soon, ready to start the next adventure.”
Mila’s final words?
This was my chapter, now go write yours.
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