Franziska - Autumn 2024
I am grateful to have had the privilege to participate in this semester at the EU Academy and to acquire new knowledge alongside such an engaging group of people.
The interactive lectures enabled me to broaden my horizon on topics I had little contact with before and to connect new ideas with previous knowledge. Elisabeth Braw’s contribution on the rise of alternative means of war and Bernadas Padegimas’ insights into the intersection of sustainable development and EU enlargement ambitions in the Balkans, particularly resonated with my interests.
I also appreciate the unique access that the Academy gave us to embassies in Copenhagen as they allowed us to gain insights from third countries on relations with the EU and on their internal politics, and to obtain perspectives from practitioners in the field.
Last but not least, we also had the chance to participate in a workshop on policy writing, which proved incredibly helpful through Bahadir Sirin’s practice-oriented approach to learning.
Overall, my enriching semester at the EU Academy leaves me with a variety of valuable knowledge and skills that go beyond what I could have learned in the realm of my studies!
Christian - Autumn 2024
Being part of the fall 2024 cohort was a truly enriching experience. Within a group of international students with various academic backgrounds, EU Academy enabled me to learn more about various EU-related topics, such as integration, security and environment-related policies and diplomacy, visit various embassies in Copenhagen and engage with practitioners from different backgrounds, such as the European Parliament, investigative journalism and think tanks.
For everyone interested in pursuing a career related to EU affairs, I warmly recommend you apply for the next semester!
Chiara - Autumn 2024
Being a Bachelor student in their first semester, the world of academia and expert-talks is still a very new experience to me. That is not to say that I do not enjoy it tremendously.
The insights and expert knowledge I could take away from the speakers invited by the EU-Academy are something that I could not have acquired elsewhere in that short of a period and on top of all for free.
Over the course of the semester I had developed a very different approach to how I educate myself. Had I felt before that I might be too shy to ask the experts a question or that I did not have knowledge profound enough to engage with them, I was now way too intrigued to hold my questions in. I got to meet peers that have similiar interests and backgrounds and was able to learn a lot from them.
All of these experiences are certainly something that will assist and boot me in my Bachelor of European studies, but also my further career and life in general.
Elin - Autumn 2024
Being a participant in the EU Academy has been an invaluable experience that provided me with deep insights into pressing European Union matters. The academy's diverse program has broadened my understanding of the complexities of diplomacy, particularly through visits to various embassies in Copenhagen. These visits allowed me to see firsthand how diplomacy is conducted and the challenges diplomats face in a rapidly changing global environment.
The lectures have been particularly enriching, offering a comprehensive analysis of the complex issues the EU is facing today. From the EU’s enlargement process to the green transition and evolving security threats, the sessions have provided a nuanced understanding of the EU's role in shaping global policies.
A highlight of my experience was visiting the Serbian and Bosnian embassies, as well as participating in the policy-writing workshop. This hands-on activity gave me a deeper appreciation of the challenges involved in crafting and developing effective policy proposals.
- Elin
Irma - Autumn 2024
I have truly enjoyed my time at the EU Academy.
The lectures and topics we’ve covered with all of the guest speakers have been so interesting and inspiring. Some of them have even helped me figure out what I’d like to focus on in my future career.
The first embassy visit to the People’s Republic of China was such a memorable experience. Getting a glimpse of a culture and society so different from mine gave me a new perspective on how important it is to work and act together in today’s world.
I have already recommended the EU Academy to my friends and will keep suggesting it to students. It’s such an amazing opportunity for anyone interested in international relations and politics!
Thank you to the team for giving me the opportunity to be part of this!
- Irma
Alice - Autumn 2024
Through the EU Academy I have gained insights I otherwise never would have at this early stage of my career.
It has been very interesting and rewarding to hear about the various guest lecturers career paths and views on the specific EU topics they have experience in.
The embassy visits in Copenhagen have also offered insights I would not have today otherwise, and it has been enriching to experience such different cultures and approaches/relationships to the EU at each embassy.
I would like to thank the EU Academy for organizing this fall’s programme and providing us participants with this unique opportunity. Thank you!
- Alice
Eskil - Autumn 2024
The EU Academy has significantly enhanced my understanding of the European Union and the pressing challenges it faces today. Being part of this group, surrounded by ambitious and intelligent individuals, fosters an inspiring environment that drives a deep desire to learn and grow.
One of the most memorable aspects of the academy was the enlightening embassy visits, which provided unique opportunities to engage with fascinating people who shared their perspectives on critical and relevant issues!
- Eskil
Joëlle - Autumn 2024
Through the EU Academy I have gained insights I otherwise never would have at this early stage of my career.
It has been very interesting and rewarding to hear about the various guest lecturers career paths and views on the specific EU topics they have experience in. The embassy visits in Copenhagen have also offered insights I would not have today otherwise, and it has been enriching to experience such different cultures and approaches, relationships to the EU at each embassy.
I would like to thank the EU Academy for organizing this fall’s programme and providing us participants with this unique opportunity. Thank you!
- Joëlle
Axel - Spring 2024
Participating in the EU Academy alongside my studies in European Affairs allowed me to combine theory with practice by gaining first-hand insights from distinguished speakers directly or indirectly involved in EU policy. Additionally, the Academy's social environment, which fostered connections with like-minded peers, was invaluable for exchanging perspectives on current and relevant European issues and politics. Earning the certificate also strengthened my CV, helping me secure an internship at the Permanent Representation of Sweden to the EU. I highly recommend the Academy to anyone interested in European and international politics!
- Axel
