Master in International Relations students visit the European Parliament in Brussels

4 min read

As part of the Master in International Relations, students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in their chosen field in the real world. One of these opportunities allows students to visit the European Parliament in Brussels to witness how the prestigious institution operates on a day-to-day basis.

Some of our participants gained firsthand insights into the inner workings of the European Parliament with the opportunity to speak to senior leaders from different chambers at the institution.

A trip to complement the program

Paul Lanusse, a Master in International Relations student, shared with us that what he loves most about IE University are the unique opportunities that enhance his overall experience, from the practical application of what he learns in the classroom to networking sessions.

“The trip allowed me to discover how the type of institution that I learn about in the classroom works in the real world, while simultaneously allowing me to meet people who do exactly what I aspire to do in the future. This trip is essential to a well-rounded education, especially in international relations,” Paul shared.

In terms of networking, Paul attended a session that simulated a European Parliament meeting led by Member of the European Parliament, José Ramón Bauzá. Each student was assigned to represent a specific party and had to elect a spokesperson to deliver a speech to the rest of the group. José congratulated Paul on his speech stating: “That’s the kind of person we want at the European Parliament.” It was a moment that Paul will never forget, especially as he wants to pursue a career within the institution.

The students also attended a networking event with Álvaro Mariscal, Foreign Affairs Advisor for an MEP. Paul highlighted his conversation with Álvaro, having found they share many common interests beyond their passion for European politics, and is sure they will be connections for life.

Learning outside the classroom

Paul found the trip enhanced his overall understanding of international relations and global politics beyond the classroom. The experience allowed him to take what he learned from his professors and see it in action in the real world. Now, as the class returns to the classroom, students will be able to reflect on their experiences and better apply their knowledge having seen how the institution operates firsthand.

For example, Paul states that his experience at the European Parliament has deepened his passion for his future career, which will help him tremendously when applying for roles.

Learning from European Parliament officials

With insights on what it’s like to work at the institution, advice on how to break into the field and conversations on the biggest challenges facing Europe, students walked away with a new perspective on what happens within its walls.

What’s more, it was also a chance for students to share their concerns for Europe’s future with those who can make an impact. With many non-EU students in attendance, the Master in International Relations cohort offered their diverse perspectives on the biggest challenges facing society, and learned of potential solutions to these issues.

The European Parliament has given our students not only the opportunity to come here and visit the facility, but also to work on a real debate assuming the main political alliance of the European political parties. – Carolina Parilli, Executive Director at IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs

Some key insights from the officials included what the typical workday looks like in different roles. Olga Caballero, Accredited Parliamentary Assistant, shared how her responsibilities involve attending various meetings with key stakeholders, writing files, and making amendments. Meanwhile, Álvaro Mariscal shared how in his role as Foreign Affairs Advisor it’s essential to stay on top of current affairs, so he always starts his day by reading the newspaper. He then tackles his emails and prepares for meetings with distinguished members from other departments. Álvaro does a lot of work on human rights, so he often meets with opposition leaders from Latin America, for example.

Final words of advice

To help IE University Master in International Relations stay ahead of the competition, Olga and Álvaro shared advice on how to break into a career in international relations.

Be faithful to your values because your work is very important for society. Another piece of advice is to believe in yourself, this is a complicated war. You need to speak with confidence, ask questions and believe in yourself. – Olga Caballero, Accredited Parliamentary Assistant

Work, read a lot, have coffee with people that you’re interested in and also come to Brussels to get to know the European Union bubble. Nothing else will enable you to understand the importance of these EU institutions, open doors for your future and give added value to your career. – Álvaro Mariscal, Foreign Affairs Advisor

With insights and networking opportunities with leaders in the field, students fully immersed themselves in what life has to offer after their program and complement their education at IE University.