Olá!

I’m Cristina López,

I’m 27 years old and I’m from Sant Boi de Llobregat, a place nobody knows, but everyone knows the city that’s just 20 minutes away: Barcelona (Spain).


I studied a 2 year technical degree in 3D Animation and recently finished a 3 year university degree in Design and Digital Creations. The thing is, I studied entirely online, so I didn’t really get the chance to “get my hands dirty” and do the practical part. That’s why I’m in Portugal now!


I came here to learn and also to share. I want to learn how to use the machines related to the so-called “art” of DIY. On the other hand, I also want to help people develop themselves. For 5 years, I volunteered in my hometown in a program that organized workshops for young people on Friday and Saturday nights. That’s why, from my point of view, this experience is the perfect combo!


Over the last two years, I started traveling while studying online and discovered the Erasmus+ programs and the ESC (European Solidarity Corps). It was love at first sight: traveling, learning, meeting people, and helping all at the same time? Of course I said YES!
Before this experience, I was in Poland for 6 months, they study Spanish in schools there! I never would have imagined that. I ended up as a Spanish teacher’s assistant in some schools in Warsaw.


And before before that, I worked at a summer camp in the USA (Chicago) for two summers (2023 and 2024): the first year as a photographer, and the second as kitchen staff. Yes, from the camera to the stoves! I made friends in the kitchen during the first year, and I really liked what they were doing, so I ended up working as a baker’s assistant the second year, making cupcakes!


So, how did I end up in Portugal? It was actually a bit random. I saw a post on the European Solidarity Corps Instagram page, sent an email to RATO, and they replied. The next step was an interview and next thing I know, I’m packing my bags for Portugal!


I hope to learn about people their ways of thinking, living, and connecting with others. I also want to get to know Portugal better, its culture, places, and everyday life. I’m interested in learning more about DIY, trying new things with my hands, and being creative. And of course, I’m sure there will be many other things I’ll discover along the way that I didn’t expect but will enjoy just as much.