Sara completed an eight-month “Robert Schuman traineeship” at the European Parliament in Brussels.
What Education Did You Pursue for this, and how Did You get this Traineeship?
I completed a Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Culture in Utrecht because I loved English books and stories. Afterward, I did a master’s in Writing, Editing, Mediating in Groningen, which was a track in Literary Studies focused on text editing and working in the publishing industry. One of the professors forwarded me an email about a traineeship opportunity at the European Parliament that aligned perfectly with this specific master’s program. I applied and received a call because they were very enthusiastic about my education. Because I had specifically learned how to edit texts, I was ranked number 1 among all applicants.
What Did You Find to be the Biggest Challenge about Moving to Brussels?
Brussels was a city I didn’t know well, and some neighborhoods are known to be less safe. But the biggest challenge was definitely that they generally speak French in Brussels. In Antwerp, where I had done an internship, I could just speak Dutch. I had studied French in high school, but when you don’t speak it regularly, it’s quite challenging when you suddenly need to use it. Colleagues often spoke French among themselves for practice because they wanted to learn French. Actually, I enjoyed it, and my knowledge of French improved – I started listening to French podcasts and bought a book in French, though I didn’t finish reading it. Finding housing was also challenging. I was used to attending viewing evenings in the Netherlands, but it was different in Brussels. I sent many emails to housing providers but was sometimes too late or received no response. I also had to increase the budget I had in mind. I was very lucky because I had sent an email to someone via Facebook who gave me a tip about another website. Fortunately, they had just had a studio available. Of course, I was completely alone in Brussels and didn’t know anyone, but fortunately, my boyfriend came the first weekend. It’s nice to see a familiar face, but I knew I would meet many people during my traineeship. I think I found the traineeship more exciting than moving to a new city.
How Did You Experience the Work Atmosphere at the European Parliament?
The European Parliament isn’t very flexible; many things are fixed and difficult to change. Everything was more formal, and you saw many people in suits at the office. Before I started, I was given a dress code: “business casual”. But actually, it wasn’t as strict as I expected. The hierarchy within my own department wasn’t too rigid either. You could always approach your supervisor if there was something. They really appreciated when you showed initiative, and there was room for your input. They handled the onboarding well for trainees because there are about 600 Schuman trainees in Brussels and Luxembourg. They organized an introduction and various activities for us, provided information about living in the city, and where to go out.
What Was the most Extraordinary Thing You Got to Do During your Traineeship?
It’s already quite extraordinary to work in the European Parliament building. Additionally, there was a lecture by Balkenende where the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, was also present. We went on a three-day study trip to Strasbourg with all the trainees. It was also very impressive to walk around in the parliament building there. And it was particularly special that we wrote blog posts for each monthly plenary session. So for the meeting where parliament members come together and vote, we made a summary: a shortened version of published documents on the topics being discussed. I wrote many blog posts, and my name is actually on them. These are public and can be read at: https://epthinktank.eu/tag/sara-van-tooren/
What Tips and Advice Would You like to Share with Young People who also Want to Do a Traineeship Abroad?
When looking for housing, you really need to research the city’s neighborhoods. If you end up in a less pleasant living environment, it affects your entire traineeship experience. It’s also incredibly helpful if you already know the language a bit because I had somewhat underestimated that. Furthermore, it’s very exciting and fun to do, and you meet many international trainees who are all in the same situation, and you spend a lot of time together. During my internship in Antwerp, I also didn’t know anyone but had a room in a nice student house with housemates my age. So just do it, everything always works out!