After a brief but enriching month with us, our Trainee for Education, Michelle Breitenmoser, is now saying goodbye to SwissCore.
“Over the past month, I had the pleasure of being part of the SwissCore team as Trainee in Education. During this time, I learned a great deal from the expertise within the team and gained valuable insights into European education policy and programmes, particularly through working with various EU education documents and at a dynamic time for Switzerland’s potentially reassociation to the Erasmus+ programme.
One of the highlights of my traineeship was contributing to the co-organisation of the EduCafé together with the CZELO office, as well as writing two articles for the Synopsis. Beyond that, I appreciated the opportunity to broaden my network with people and institutions in the field of education covering the area across Europe, gaining insights into different national education systems and priorities. This was very inspiring for my further path and offered a meaningful look into the EU landscape. Participating in the IGLO Introduction Week for newcomers of the Liaison Offices in Brussels provided a broad understanding of EU policy and programmes. In addition, attending a conference on the recognition of qualifications in transnational education and joining a webinar of the Lifelong Learning Platform deepened my understanding of policymaking in education and training at an EU-level.
All these experiences have sparked new ideas and insights for potential further research. I also valued being able to share my knowledge on vocational education and training (VET) and insights from my recent research projects, particularly on mobility programmes as part of the Erasmus+ Programme and Switzerland’s VET system in an international perspective. Exchanging ideas in these areas, as well as on broader education topics at the EU level, made the experience especially meaningful. This short but very enriching month has given me a first overview of current developments in education policy and has strengthened my interest in international education and training systems.
Last but not least, I am especially grateful for the warm welcome and continuous professional support I received from my supervisor Sandra and from the whole team throughout my traineeship. It has truly been an enriching experience, both professionally and personally.
Thank you all for this opportunity!”