How Volunteering Opened Doors for Me Towards a Scholarship in Germany – The Success Story of Erijona Muji

Erijona Muji, 21 years old, is a student of Computer Science and Engineering at UBT College and has been part of the TOKA organization since 2019. Currently, she has been accepted and is working at the Fraunhofer IIS Institute for Scientific Research in Technology in Erlangen, Germany, through the “Zoran Djindjić Internship of German Business” program. Her journey is a testament to the power of volunteering in opening new doors, both personally and professionally.

How did you first get involved in TOKA?

My experience with TOKA began in 9th grade when I joined the Super Volunteers group in Gjilan. Through various activities and volunteer work, I gained valuable experiences and developed new skills. Later, I had the opportunity to participate in TOKA camps as a camper, where I experienced unforgettable moments and deepened my engagement with the organization.

Since then, my journey with TOKA has continued without interruption. Every activity and every camp has been a step forward in shaping me as an active citizen, with awareness and responsibility toward my community.

What was the most meaningful moment during your experience as a volunteer or camp leader?

The most meaningful moment for me has been realizing my personal growth after each camp and activity. Every experience helped me reflect and see how much I was developing as an individual, while also contributing to the community, even when the changes seemed small.

Another special moment is my transition from being a camper and volunteer to becoming a leader, helping organize experiences for others. This change made me feel that I was part of something bigger than myself.

What skills or lessons did you gain through your experience in TOKA?

My experience in TOKA has been crucial for my personal and social development. I learned how to work closely with different people, developing empathy, tolerance, and flexibility in communication.

Also, moving from a participant role to a leadership role gave me self-confidence and pushed me to take on greater responsibilities. I developed organizational skills, from planning to implementation, and learned how to take initiative, work in teams, and lead with clarity and accountability.

Furthermore, TOKA helped me improve my communication skills, both in public speaking and in one-on-one interactions. I now feel more prepared to contribute positively to my community and to be an active part of change.

In summary, TOKA has strengthened my empathy, collaboration, and self-confidence, making me more capable of appreciating diversity and leading effectively.

How did your experience in TOKA help you win the scholarship in Germany?

My experience in TOKA played a fundamental role in my acceptance to this program. During this time, I learned how to collaborate with others, take responsibility, and lead with initiative – values that directly align with the scholarship program’s requirements, such as social engagement, civic awareness, and leadership skills.

Moreover, this experience helped me develop empathy, effective communication, and self-confidence, essential qualities for integrating into an international academic and social community, including in Germany.

Do you think volunteering helped you stand out as a candidate for the scholarship? How?

Yes, absolutely! Extracurricular activities, like volunteering, are just as important as academic success. They showcase not only your skills but also your values and dedication to the community.

Through my volunteer engagement, I learned the importance of responsibility and teamwork, while contributing tangibly to the well-being of others. This gave my application more depth and showed that I was a well-rounded candidate, ready to contribute not only in studies and work but also in society.

How has TOKA shaped you into the person you are today?

Overall, TOKA has shaped my personality by making me more responsible, open, and committed to the values of collaboration and social engagement, qualities that strongly influence the person I am today.

Your message to young people who are thinking about volunteering

Don’t hesitate to start this journey! Volunteering opens new doors and helps you grow as a person. Besides helping your community, you will gain valuable skills, meet new people, and realize how much you can positively impact the world around you.

Volunteering is a beautiful way to give something of yourself and to receive so much more in return.

Your plans after the scholarship

Currently, I am working at the Fraunhofer IIS Institute for Scientific Research in Technology in Erlangen, where I am gaining important experience in research and technology development. After this period, I plan to return to Kosovo to complete my bachelor studies in Computer Science and Engineering and to continue being active in TOKA.

In the long run, I aspire to pursue a master’s degree and work in the development of technologies that bring real benefits to people.