International Relations Society Goes on Study Trip to Brussels
The International Relations Society brought 19 JCU students to Brussels from December 16 through 18 for its second study trip. The program included visits to all European institutions, the Belgian Parliament, the International Organization for Migration, and a meeting with JCU alumni working in EU institutions.
The trip began with a visit to the European Commission, where the group learned about the organization’s function and role, followed by a presentation on the economic and budgetary situation of the European Union.
International Relations Society in Brussels
On the second day students visited the Belgian Parliament and the Council of the European Union, where they listened to a presentation by Mr. Fernando Criado Alonso from Council’s General Secretariat. He talked about the legislative function of the Council and the recent developments in the enlargement process, more specifically in the Western Balkans, Ukraine and Turkey.
The third day featured a trip to the International Organization for Migration, where students were introduced to the organization’s newest projects regarding migrants and refugees. The group had the chance to ask questions and discuss recent developments in the refugee crisis. Finally, the students visited the European Parliament, where they listened to a presentation on the functions and role of the Parliament in the more general framework of EU institutions.
On their last day students explored the city of Brussels with its festive holiday atmosphere, Christmas markets, and ice-skating rinks. In the evening they had dinner with Leonardo Quattrucci, an inspiring JCU alumnus who works in European Union institutions. Leonardo shared his success story and gave practical advice to the students on how to plan ahead for their careers.
Stay tuned for the International Relations Society’s exciting Spring 2016 events, including the next study trip.
If you want to know more about the club and its activities visit their Facebook page and website!
