INTERVIEW TRAINEE – Osinuga Ojuolape

1 – Why did you decide to join the EU4EU programme?

As a Nigerian student studying in France, who was trying to get integrated in the culture and learn the language, I applied to several organisations for internship purposes. I received a lot of ‘sorry emails’ due to the language barrier. However, my university shared the EU4EU opportunity with us via email. I decided to apply as I could get an opportunity to showcase myself and gain an European career opportunity. Although the pay is a stipend, I would have an opportunity to develop my career. And the experience that I would acquire cannot be taken away from me.

2 – Was it easy to join the programme?

Well, I registered on the platform with ease. However, a lot of documentation needed to be done between me, my university, and my Host Organisation.

3 – Tell us your experience about living in another country (finding home, social relationships, friends, language, etc…)

Moving from France to another country like Italy was a little tedious. In fact, trying to learn a new culture, listening to people speak Italian, and learning their culture was another ballgame on its own. For me, finding a home took a while because the way of finding a home in Italy was through social media (Facebook). I had to make a request stating the price and location, then I had to wait for a homeowner to contact me. I visited about 3 different houses before I selected the home of my choice, and this took about 2 weeks. Social relationship: My colleagues at work were receptive, that was a great opportunity for me to socialise. I also had wonderful housemates, in particular, Mema, with whom I would walk around Naples on weekends. She showed me around the town, the sea area, etc. Friends: For me, it was beyond friendship, I made a family. The Italians I met at work and at home became my family. It was the best experience for me. I believe I was also very receptive. Not forgetting, they took me out on several occasions, and I also introduced them to my Nigerian delicacy called Jollof rice. Language: I learned some basics in Italian: salutations, numbers, and simple words. I was able to understand when I listened to discussions. In addition, I helped some people improve their English level.

4 – Tell us your experience about working in another country (it was hard/simple, my supervisor was great/bad, my colleagues were great/bad, difficult to understand, etc…)

I will say it was one of the best experiences I have ever had. My supervisor, Lucia, was great and always ready to teach and involve me in tasks. My fellow interns are the best people I have met, and my other colleagues were awesome. I will summarise by saying it was a hitch-free experience.

5 – How important do you think it is for a university student to get an internship in Europe?

Getting a European internship will help prepare a student for their career and their future. It helps a student to know exactly what they want to do in life. It also helps a student develop skills that he/she wouldn’t get in school.

6 – What do you think will be the advantages from this experience?

With this experience, I believe I have an edge. Working with a European company will make whichever organisation I will be applying to, have a level of trust in me, it will add value to my curriculum vitae, and the skills I have learned will help me with my future career.

7 – Did you get what you wanted from this opportunity?

I did get what I wanted. As stated in my personal statement, prior to my master’s degree, I want to become a global manager and get first-hand professional experience in management and business administration. This is exactly what I have been able to achieve during my internship with the EU4EU programme.

8 – Will you participate in the EU4EU programme in the future?

Well, if the opportunity comes up, I will.

9 – Would you suggest another student to join the EU4EU programme? Why?

I will suggest the EU4EU programme to any other student. This is an avenue to learn and develop oneself and learn about new cultures which will help in their future career.