Lourdes

Describe your placement experience.

During my placement at EUCOFEL, I worked as a Policy Officer Intern supporting policy monitoring, research, advocacy and communication activities related to the European fruit and vegetable sector. I analysed EU legislative developments, attended European Parliament and Commission meetings, drafted policy briefs and reports, and represented the association at conferences and stakeholder events. 

This experience gave me first hand insight into EU policymaking, trade and sustainability debates. It strengthened my communication and professional networking skills within the agri food policy environment.

What were the best things about it?

One of the best aspects of my placement was the overall experience of living and working in Brussels, a truly international city where I was constantly meeting people from different countries and cultures. I really enjoyed the job itself, it was a perfect way to combine my Politics and International Relations degree with agriculture, a sector that has been part of my family for generations.

Have your career plans been informed by your placement?

My placement has had a major impact on my career plans. The experience has led me to want to pursue a career in EU or international agri food policy, combining my Politics and International Relations degree with my family’s connection to agriculture. Living and working in Brussels was an incredible experience,  it made me want to return to the city to build my future career.

What advice do you have for students considering doing a placement?

My advice would be to do a placement. It makes you stand out, giving you both your degree and valuable work experience. It also gives you clarity about what you want to do after university. 

For some, the placement might not turn out to be the perfect fit, but even then the experience is valuable as it helps to redirect your path. You also have the chance to build contacts and professional relationships that can be helpful in the future. In my own experience it was scary at first as I was in a new country, in a city I have never been to before and didn’t know anyone, but it turned out to be amazing and didn't want to leave.