Study Mission Brussels – March 2022

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.