The involvement in and understanding of politics is what secures democracy.
Therefore, to be involved in a program such as the MEU that the EWEI-Institute provided, was a
great way for me to learn about the procedures, tools and skills that are used and needed in
contemporary political decision-making.
Although I had no thorough understanding of the assignment beforehand, the modelation proved to be a great opportunity to take a look into the actual procedures of the European Parliament.
Being assigned the role of a Member of the Parliament allowed me to experience the challenge of
defining your ideals, arguing for that position and eventually deciding on how to cooperate with others – as I got to know these aspects, I now feel confident about expressing, presenting and
defending my political opinion in front of other professionals.
If you are interested in politics, but are afraid of what seems to be so complicated; Don’t hesitate!
A MEU is the best way to prepare yourself for actual political involvement and debates, whilst
being surrounded and accompanied by lovely, likely-minded students and post-graduates.
In conclusion I would say that MEU not only gave me a deeper knowledge about politics, but also
the possibility to connect with young europeans, establishing a network of support and learning
through each other’s experiences.
After all, at the moment of participating, I was only a high-school student, which made it even greater, to get to learn and know how I can, now and in the future, help to secure democracy.

Participating in Model EU Brussels has been a life-changing experience for me. As a law student I have always been really interested in European Institutions and European politics. This model was the best possible way to gather first-hand knowledge on the institutions and politics within the European Union. Not only did I learn more about EU, but, most importantly, I learned that while participating. Model EU was the perfect combination of lectures and real-life practicing. Attending some very detailed and useful lectures was followed by participating in a decision-making body. That unique experience has been a landmark in my life. Reflecting back on it I feel really happy I was part of something so interesting, so knowledge and experience enriching, while I got the chance to meet so many nice and interesting people whom I now count as friends. I would wholeheartedly recommend joining Model EU to anyone interested in European Law and politics.

Being part of this thrilling experience gave me a great deal of fun and personal growth. Having a background as a law student, this Model was for me a chance to deepen my knowledge of EU institutions and, most importantly, a glimpse of what negotiations and political debates are about. At first, I was scared to not fit the situation as my colleagues were much more prepared to face this kind of experience than I was. Thanks to them and my colleague George, I built ever-increasing confidence that made me eventually succeed to represent the Republic of Bulgaria within the Council of the EU. Regardless of what background you have or what role you will play, there is always a margin of personal development, especially if you work closely with your team. A great experience I would definitely recommend!

During MEU Brussels, I had a great time with many different students from across Europe and beyond. This conference with its unique focus on EU policy making really taught me about the challenges that we are facing – internally and externally. Reading about how the EU functions and putting theoretic knowledge to practice during this conference taught me a lot. There are only few opportunities like MEU Brussels where we are gathering to develop public speaking skills, a deep understanding of European politics and the craft of negotiating in one setting, under one theme. Apart from learning and deepening my skills in the aforementioned field, I made many new connections. This conference has left a lasting impression on me and it will help me to foster my future career options.

Participating in the Model EU – Bruxelles organized by EWEI and Associazione Diplomatici has been an unforgettable experience. A simulation of the parliamentary work of the European Union may sound like something for insiders, but it has really been an opportunity to challenge ourselves, to discover our attitudes and abilities surrounded by talented and knowledgeable people, and to see what making decisions and facing conflicting opinions really mean. The possibility to engage in this fields while being in one one the great European capitals and following the steps and advice of real experts has been priceless and really formative. And doing it with almost 200 people from all over Europe of such high stature has made this a truly inspiring and stimulating experience, urging me to give my best and live up to the level I’ve seen before me. I’d highly recommend this course to anyone looking to work in politics and diplomacy, but also to all those who believe in the European project and want to see the EU thrive.

Model EU Brussels gave me more than I had anticipated. Thanks to the comprehensive preparatory course, I learnt much about China-EU relations. When I was signing up, I expected to meet like-minded or inspiring people from around Europe and learn about the procedures of the trilogue. But already on the first day, I realised that I was participating in something that not only was very educational but at the same time simply fun. It was an opportunity for me to train speaking to a large audience and learn how to act on behalf of people/politicians with who I might disagree. It was a unique experience, and I recommend it to all young people who strive towards a career in politics, activism, public relations, geopolitics, etc.

The training mission in Brussels will be on my list of special events that will remain as unforgettable experience. As part of the project, I visited the EU institutions and had the opportunity to directly contact their representatives. Brussels is impressive – the city, the atmosphere – everything indicates that it is the epicenter of very important events.
The connections I made while in Brussels are invaluable. People from different parts of the world have been united by our interest in EU activities, first-hand experiences, discussions- all these together, brought us closer. I look forward to the next projects of the EastWest Insitute, because participating in them has shown myself and my professional perspectives from a different angle.

The Study mission to Brussels was an amazing experience filled solely with positive emotions. I got to meet so many diverse and amazing people and I had the opportunity to share this magnificent experience with them. Apart from the fun, we had a great simulation and many interesting presentations and visits organized by the EWEI. Thank you for everything and I would gladly participate again!

While going through the brochure I knew the Study Mission in Brussels would be beneficial but I’ve to admit the whole experience surpassed my expectations.
Not only did we got to see the ‘behind the scenes’ of the European Union but also had face to face interactions with some of the renowned figures working for the European Commission as well as the European Parliament. Thanks to the special guest lectures organised by EWEI team.
I highly recommend making the most of these study missions especially if you are someone who has a keen interest in EU politics.

The trip was a fantastic learning opportunity, with significantly important guest speakers who provided unique opportunities to answer the many questions from the group, particularly in the context of the Ukraine crisis. Moreover, the opportunity was a fantastic way to meet and network with new people from all over Europe and the world. I decided to do this trip because I saw it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, considering I would not have time to do this in my final year of university – and I do not regret it at all! The experience was really worth it, in terms of the social aspect and learning aspect.

The experience I had during the Study Mission organized by EWEI in Brussels was absolutely wonderful. I had the honour of visiting european institutions and exchange with distinguished people at several high-level meetings. My best memory from this training was when I asked questions directly to those decision-makers both on international and European scene. Therefore, these meetings allowed me to deepen my knowledge and opinions on international politics and balances

I thoroughly enjoyed my time taking part in the Brussels study mission. I was able to listen to, and debate with fellow colleagues who had differing opinions and perspectives on the challenges we are facing today. Migration, global health & the changing international powers will no doubt continue to shape our world and our future. We met during a time of change for the EU and the rest of the world, but this experience reminded us we are stronger together and we can celebrate the things that make us different. Thank you to all of my fellow colleagues and coordinators for the chance to take part in the mission.