On March 31st, ASSEDEL interns had the opportunity to attend a training session led by Gaia Pellegrini, an Accredited Parliamentary Assistant (APA). Drawing from her own experience, Gaia provided valuable insights into the EU legislative process, the role of APAs, and career opportunities within the so-called “EU Bubble.”
She began by explaining the concept of the “EU Bubble,” referring to the concentration of institutions, organizations, and professionals in Brussels that drive EU policies and decision-making. Within this environment, APAs play a crucial role in supporting Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) in different capacities. Their work generally falls into three main areas: legislative tasks, which include conducting research, drafting reports, and proposing amendments; administrative and event management, involving schedule coordination, event organization, and logistics; and communication, which covers media relations, social media management, and content creation.
Gaia highlighted the dynamic nature of the job, where no two days are ever the same. One of the biggest challenges is handling the workload; she added that success in this role requires flexibility, patience, and adaptability.
For those aspiring to a career within the EU institutions, Gaia shared valuable advice. She emphasized the importance of networking and maintaining a professional presence on social media, both of which played a crucial role in her own career path. She also introduced several key EU-related career opportunities, including the VIE (Volontariat International en Entreprise), an excellent opportunity for international experience; the Schuman Traineeship, a politically oriented internship within the European Parliament; and the Blue Book Traineeship, a more technical internship with the European Commission, open to candidates from various backgrounds.
The session provided an engaging and comprehensive look into the role of an APA, the workings of the European Parliament, and the different career paths within EU institutions. Gaia’s insights underscored the importance of persistence, adaptability, and seizing opportunities in the EU job market. For those interested in pursuing a career in this field, gaining experience through internships, volunteering for political campaigns, and developing strong communication skills can be key steps toward success.
A special thank you to Gaia Pellegrini for sharing her time, experience, and valuable advice, offering participants an inspiring and realistic perspective on professional life at the EU level.