My work has been fascinating and highly dynamic.

I’m sitting on the sofa thinking. I’m thinking about the experience that has just come to an end, yet is constantly on my mind. My two-month traineeship has gone by in the blink of an eye. Not long ago, I was standing in front of the main entrance of the European Parliament in Brussels, where I was “picked up” by Irena’s assistant Žana, who led me through a maze until we arrived at the offices where I settled in comfortably and familiarised myself with my new working environment. The initial week was rather calm and I used it to get to know the city in miniature, as I like to describe the Parliament, as well as my new colleagues.

I was a bit nervous before arriving in the European capital, as it is not every day one embarks on a traineeship in an institution like the European Parliament.

However, I soon realised my unease had been completely unnecessary as I very quickly found my place in the team, who are relaxed and always ready to help. And so began my work, which has been fascinating and highly dynamic from start to finish. There were days or weeks when there was a little less work, but this was soon evened out by another week when the workload was significantly higher. This variation is closely related to what is going on in the Parliament. During the ‘green’ weeks, when MEPs are generally in their respective countries, there is not as much work as when, for example, they are attending committee or political group meetings in Brussels, let alone during plenary weeks. But not to worry, I always managed to get all the work done. Being a trainee in Irena’s office doesn’t mean you are chained to a computer. I have had the opportunity to follow political group and committee meetings and, of course, plenary sessions. Through this process, I became familiar with the contents of many different documents, which covered topics such as the media, environment, and health, to name just a few. I also had the opportunity to listen to important guests from other European institutions, as well as heads of state and other distinguished personalities. My work included preparing content for social networks and assisting in the official photo-shoot of the MEP. I even took some photos of Irena myself as she was attending meetings or giving a speech at a session. Another memorable experience was when representatives of the European Roma Community visited the Parliament for a meeting with the MEP. I welcomed them and accompanied them to the meeting, and later I escorted them to the European Commission premises, where I assisted with translation during their discussion. As you can see, the work is never monotonous and as a result of the variety of tasks I was been given I have gained a broad spectrum of knowledge and skills.

Walking through the Parliament’s corridors on my way to a meeting or simply to have lunch in the canteen, I was captivated by the sheer number of people of many different nationalities speaking many different languages, which I tried to recognise and understand. On one such occasion, I had a pleasant surprise. I was walking past the media centre, which is available for Members to record statements, and I ran into a huge crowd of people. Bigger than usual. I successfully made my way through and then I noticed that it was the Parliament’s President, Roberta Metsola, who was recording a statement. That was the reason for all the commotion. Prior to my traineeship, I would never have thought that I would have a chance to stand less than a metre away from the President. This is just one of the thrilling things that can happen in the Parliament, and such coincidences make the traineeship even more exciting. But the Parliament is not merely a place for political muscle-flexing, for meetings and office work. On the ground floor of the main building, you can find all kinds of services. Next to the canteen and other food shops, there is a dry cleaner, a hairdresser and a newsagent where you can buy postcards or drop off parcels. In fact, this floor looks more like a shopping centre than a European institution.

Just before the end of my traineeship, I got to attend a Strasbourg plenary. I must say, it was a remarkable experience, quite distinct from the rest of my traineeship in Brussels. In France, the nature of the work is different. Not so much in terms of my duties as a trainee, but with regard the whole dynamic of everyone there. The corridors of the Parliament’s building in Strasbourg are even more vibrant and confusing and even more packed with people rushing to political group meetings or to voting sessions in the plenary chamber. There really is not much time to rest, because the agenda is full of thought-provoking debates. If, despite the signs, you get lost as a trainee, don’t worry. Most of the people I spoke to assured me that they still manage to get lost, even after repeated visits to the institution. Despite the long working days, there is time for a visit to the city. Strasbourg captivated me completely and is very different from the Belgian capital. It is smaller, more homely and, above all, much cleaner. The little houses in the heart of the city are quite charming and the huge baroque cathedral is breathtaking. It is a must-see during the day and in the evening when the lights of the city come on, which adds to the charm. There is a river boat from the city centre to the Parliament several times a day. I also recommend tasting a traditional tarte flambée.

And if I return to Brussels for a while, it is evidently not only home to European institutions and the political wrangling. Even though not many will agree, I find the Belgian capital just as beautiful and interesting to explore. It is true that it has a reputation of grey and sour weather. That is why it is all the more wonderful making the most of every ray of sunshine on a work-free day. Apart from all the famous landmarks such as the main square and Manneken Pis, I was struck by the abundance of parks, where I often went for a stroll or spent time socialising with other trainees I met while in Belgium.

The regional cuisine may not be extraordinary, but there are plenty of restaurants from all over the world to fill the stomach. Did you know that French fries supposedly originate from Belgium rather than France as the name suggests? You will be able to savour truly outstanding French fries, often paired with a vast selection of sauces all of which you cannot sample in only two months. And heaven forbid I should omit to mention the excellent waffles and Belgian chocolate. Other than that, I preferred to stick to the tried-and-tested dishes. Brussels is also a great starting point for day trips/. The public transport permits you to escape and explore other, more idyllic cities around the country over the weekend. I would suggest Brugge, Ghent and the less familiar Dinant which nevertheless deserves a visit. There is never a dull moment in Brussels, and the decision about how to spend free time depends purely on one’s interests.

I would like to use this opportunity to express my appreciation to everyone who kept an eye on my work and put up with my queries and lack of knowledge. My sincere thanks to MEP Irena for the opportunity and the warm welcome to her team. Even though I was certain that Irena is a laidback and amiable person, I was positively surprised by her humanity. She and all her colleagues really made me feel equal, as a full member of the team.  Thank you to the assistants Žana and Rok from whose invaluable knowledge and familiarity with the legislation I was able to constantly learn something new. Last but not least, a big thank you to Elma, who let me share her office, for all her good humour and positive energy and, of course, for all the advice, guidance and suggestions she was most happy to share during my two months on the job. Thank you, Elma, for keeping a watchful eye on me and making sure that I fitted in smoothly and without any difficulty. Thank you also to the local assistants Jasna and Tilen. If it weren’t for you, my experience would have been much less exciting and insightful, so thank you all very much, you really are a great team.

Finally, this experience has been unparalleled and unforgettable. It was an adventure that will stay with me forever. To all of you who may be thinking about applying for a traineeship, I urge you to do so. Forget about fear and uncertainty, be bold and step out of your comfort zone – you won’t regret it.

– Domen Bajde