A student’s story of six months abroad thanks to an opportunity offered by the Alliance
“My internship experience in Angers was one of the most exciting and meaningful experiences I have ever had. At first, the idea of spending six months away from home seemed almost unimaginable to me, but today I can say that this experience has been far more important than I could ever have imagined. I also never thought I would be selected for a mobility opportunity promoted by the EU GREEN programme, which I knew very little about at the time.
Over the past six months, the BiodivAg laboratory at the University of Angers welcomed me and involved me in a range of activities. I had the opportunity to take part in the Xenogreen project, including numerous field trips. Xenogreen studies the spread of an alien amphibian species, the impacts and reasons behind the success of this invasion, and this is also the subject of my Master’s thesis. I was also able to learn about and participate, to some extent, in other projects carried out by the laboratory, discovering the different aspects of ecological research.
It was a highly educational experience that allowed me to learn new techniques, manage my time more effectively, become more independent and step outside my comfort zone.
The group that welcomed me was extremely supportive from the very beginning. I met people who were always willing to give me advice, help me and share their knowledge, making me feel part of the team. My tutor, Cédric, also played an important role. He was always available and patient, closely supporting me and helping me throughout my time there.
The city of Angers also helped make this experience special. It is a beautiful city, with a wide range of cultural and sporting activities. I had the opportunity to take part in activities organised by the University of Angers, which allowed me to feel part of university life and the wider university community, meet new people and fully experience the city.
Looking back, these six months were much more than simply a study-abroad experience. They were a period of personal growth, discovery and new experiences, during which I had the opportunity to challenge myself, meet special people and experience a reality different from my own.
It is an experience I would undertake again without hesitation, and one I would recommend to students who are unsure whether to take part in a European mobility programme, whether for study or an internship. I am very happy that I took up this opportunity facilitated by the EU GREEN programme, and I will carry with me the memories of these six months, the people I met and everything I learned in Angers.”
Sibilla Motta
Master’s student in Ecology and Ethology for Nature Conservation
