EMA Professional Development Presented: the Schuman Traineeships

By Keepa Maitri Tuladhar,

EMA Professional Development Officer, Talent Management Unit

The Erasmus Mundus Student and Alumni Association’s (EMA) Professional Development Sub-Unit recently hosted an informative webinar for its volunteers and the broader community. Vighnesh Nadukkandy Pradeep, Professional Development Coordinator and Keepa Maitri Tuladhar, Professional Development Officer, hosted the online event on October 15th, 2024. The session focused on demystifying the process of applying for and securing a coveted Schuman Traineeship at the European Parliament's Secretariat-General.

A Deep Dive into Schuman Traineeships

The European Parliament offers two primary types of traineeships:

1. Schuman Traineeships: These paid traineeships provide invaluable hands-on experience within the European Parliament's Secretariat-General. Successful applicants can choose to work in one of the Parliament's official locations: Brussels, Luxembourg, Strasbourg, or even in one of its Liaison Offices across the EU Member States.

   
   

2. Traineeships with Members of the European Parliament: These placements offer a unique opportunity to work directly with MEPs and their teams, gaining insights into the legislative process and policymaking.

   
   

Expert Insights from a Traineeship Alumnus

The webinar featured Alvaro Jimber, a Communication Officer at the European Cancer Organisation and a former Schuman Trainee. Alvaro shared his firsthand experiences and provided invaluable tips on:

• Crafting a Strong Application: Learn to highlight your skills and experiences to stand out.

• Navigating the Selection Process: Gain insights into the evaluation criteria and the interview process.

• Making the Most of Your Traineeship: Discover strategies for maximizing learning and networking opportunities.

By attending this webinar, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the Schuman Traineeship program and the steps needed to increase their chances of securing a placement.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in European affairs and want to gain practical experience within the European Union institutions, consider applying for a Schuman Traineeship. Stay tuned for future webinars and workshops organized by EMA's Professional Development Sub-Unit to help you achieve your goals.