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Thanks to generous donations, and the time and commitment of alumnus, Tom Jones, four MA students visited Brussels, to shadow Tom in the European Economic and Social Committee, as well as observe other EU political institutions.

The four lucky students were Ane, Sebastian, Silvia and Findlay.  At the time, they were studying the topical and extremely relevant module EU in Crisis as part of their MA in the International Politics department. Their visit to Brussels enhanced their theoretical study at Aber with practical observations of how the EU functions.

“Shadowing Tom Jones in the European Economic and Social Committee has been an inspiring opportunity to visit not only the EESC but also many other institutions”, Ane tells us. “It has been very interesting to talk to different people from Wales working in the EU.

“The trip has been a great chance to see the regional governments and the people working for it have a huge influence and different implications in the EU.

“Talking to people and knowing their experiences has driven me to look for internships or jobs in EU institutions.

“Tom Jones was a wonderful host. He arranged many meetings with different officials from the Welsh government, as well as with younger people so we could share experiences. Likewise, he was very interested in our background and our futures, and shared with us many of his experiences, which made me feel very at home.

“I am very grateful for this experience. I am sure it will be one of the most memorable experiences in my MA course.”