INTERVIEW TRAINEE – Serena Di Gennaro

Serena Di Gennaro, a Bachelor’s student in Law, Political Science and International Relations at the Università di Napoli (Italy), took part in the EU4EU mobility programme. She completed a three-month internship at Sule Yuksel Sen Girls Anatolian Imam Hatip High School in Balikesir, Türkiye, under the supervision of Meltem Aktaş. During her stay, Serena had the opportunity to immerse herself in a new cultural and educational environment, gaining both personal and professional experience.

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

I decided to join the EU4EU programme because I strongly believe in the value of cultural exchange. Experiencing different environments helps us strengthen our skills, broaden our perspectives, and learn how to embrace diversity with an open mind. For me, taking part in a mobility programme was not only a professional choice, but also a personal one: a way to grow, challenge myself, and understand other cultures more deeply.

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

I had the opportunity to live in Türkiye, in Balıkesir, where I worked as an English teacher in a local school. From the very first day, my tutor welcomed me warmly and supported me throughout the entire period. The school generously provided accommodation and meals, which made my stay much easier and more comfortable. I spent a lot of time with the students, speaking with them, learning about their customs and traditions, and sharing moments both inside and outside the classroom. The atmosphere was always friendly and respectful—students were curious, motivated, and genuinely enthusiastic about learning from me, and I always felt appreciated. My colleagues were also incredibly supportive and kind; they guided me, helped me when needed, and never made me feel uncomfortable or out of place.

3 – 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…).

Of course, there were small challenges along the way, but my tutor was always by my side, and we faced everything together. Over time, our relationship grew beyond a professional one—we became friends, and we still keep in touch today. Looking back, I can say that this experience was truly enriching, both personally and professionally. I would gladly repeat it, and if I could, I would have extended my stay beyond three months.

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

I believe that opportunities like this are extremely important for university students. Not only do they allow us to deepen our knowledge and put theory into practice, but they also help us grow as individuals. Travelling and working in another country is one of the most effective ways to gain maturity, develop new skills, and open up to the world. For me, this programme has been a valuable, meaningful experience, and I feel grateful for everything it has offered me.

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

I believe that opportunities like this are extremely important for university students. Not only do they allow us to deepen our knowledge and put theory into practice, but they also help us grow as individuals. Travelling and working in another country is one of the most effective ways to gain maturity, develop new skills, and open up to the world.