The Careers without Borders event organised by UNSA Maastricht and ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ-MERIT occurred from February 6-8. On Friday, it was hosted by ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ-MERIT: a full day of presentations, workshops, networking, and panel sessions. Aimed at students aspiring to make a difference in the world, this event gave insights into future careers within international organizations. The event drew significant interest, with over 75 students attending in person ¨C participants from our MSc in Public Policy and Human Development (MPP), and other students from Maastricht University, like as well as the Bachelor's programmes and .
After the words of welcome by the MPP director Elaine Lebon-McGregor, the first presentation was held on Research Consulting in the EU Policy Cycle by , followed by a presentation by Professor Melissa Siegel, Head of Migration Studies at ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ-MERIT on Pursuing an academic career.
Next up was a Workshop on UN Career Opportunities by , Head of Benelux & EU Desk at the United Nations Regional Information Centre in Brussels, giving students information on how to get into the UN system.
After a networking lunch, the Blue Book Traineeship Programme of the EU Commission was presented by , Lydie Vlckova and of the Directorate-General for Human Resources and Security Traineeships Office, which was also joined by MPP alumna and former Blue Book trainee: .
Our colleague, Capacity Development Coordinator and MPP alumna Cristina Mancigotti moderated a panel of MPP alumni on their experiences after the MPP program, which consisted of , Teaching fellow at Maastricht University, , Web Operations Manager at the European Commission, , Researcher at Oxfam Novib and , PhD candidate at Research Centre for Education and the Labor Market at Maastricht University
Programme Director of the European Institute of Public Administration (EIPA) and , Associate Director, Institutional Relations & Partnerships at the European Centre for Development Policy Management (ECDPM) spoke about their professional careers and recruiting strategies of these Maastricht based institutions. They were joined by Serge Stinckwich, Head of Research at our Sister Institute, ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ-Macau, who gave insights into the ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ system. Next to providing insight into their interesting professional careers, they gave practical tips for writing application letters and core skills that are important in the international environment.
After some closing drinks, this inspiring event ended and hopefully left students equipped with more than just advice and information; it fuelled a sense of possibility and a roadmap for turning future ambitions into reality step by step. We hope to have inspired those who dream of shaping a better future for our world!
