DISCOVERING EUROPE THROUGH INVEST: FROM LAW STUDIES TO EUROPEAN ENGAGEMENT

Discovering Europe Through INVEST

From Law Studies to European Engagement

Across the INVEST alliance, students are encouraged to explore Europe beyond their classrooms, through mobility, dialogue, and active participation in shaping the future of higher education and democracy. These experiences allow students to grow academically, personally, and professionally while engaging with shared European values.

One such story comes from Milan, where Viola, a law student with a strong international background, found her voice through the European Student Assembly (ESA) made possible by the University of Milano-Bicocca’s involvement in the INVEST European University Alliance.

Stepping Beyond the Classroom

My name is Viola, I am 23 years old, and I come from Milan. I am currently in my final year of Law School, specialising in International Law. I have always been deeply curious about multiculturalism and travel. Growing up, I attended a language-focused high school, where I developed a strong interest in German and Spanish language and culture - an interest that played a key role in shaping my academic path.

During my university journey, I had the opportunity to spend a semester in Barcelona through the Erasmus programme and to undertake a legal traineeship at a law firm in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which I am currently completing, also within the Erasmus framework. These experiences were fundamental for both my academic and personal growth. They pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to engage with different cultures and legal systems, while meeting inspiring people from whom I learned a great deal.

First Steps into European-Level Engagement

I first discovered the European Student Assembly through Bicocca University Angels, a group of students I am proudly involved in, working closely with the university’s International Office. Among other initiatives, we manage the international social media page of our university, and it was through this activity that I learned about ESA.

What immediately caught my attention was that I had never taken part in international or European-level student initiatives before. I felt excited, but also a little intimidated. As a law student, I am used to studying the law once it has already been created. The idea of being involved, albeit from a student perspective, in discussions closer to the policy-making process deeply sparked my curiosity and motivation.

Learning Through Collaboration and Dialogue

Collaborating with students from different countries and universities was, above all, deeply connecting. I constantly felt part of something bigger than myself - something genuinely European. That sense of shared purpose truly amazed me.

Of course, working at a distance sometimes brought challenges, such as coordinating schedules, perspectives, and working styles. However, the people I collaborated with were incredibly empathetic and open-minded. Whenever difficulties arose, I felt supported by a team that approached challenges with cooperation and mutual understanding.

Traveling for ESA added another layer to the experience. Reaching the venue involved a long and exhausting journey, and the return trip was unexpectedly complicated when my bus back to Milan was cancelled overnight. Still, sharing these moments with fellow participants turned difficulties into meaningful memories and strengthened our connections.

Growth, Skills, and New Perspectives

Participating in ESA gave me a completely new perspective on dialogue, negotiation, and collective decision-making at a European level. For the first time, I experienced how policy discussions are shaped not only by technical knowledge, but also by cooperation, compromise, and active listening.

Academically, this experience changed the way I approach my studies. I now see legal issues more dynamically, paying greater attention to their social, political, and human implications. On a personal level, ESA strengthened my confidence, teamwork skills, and ability to work effectively in diverse and interdisciplinary groups.

I was able to contribute perspectives shaped by my legal background and my experience as a student in Italy, particularly regarding fundamental rights, legal certainty, and cooperation between national and European legal systems. At the same time, learning from students from other countries broadened my understanding of Europe’s diversity.

Meaningful Impact and Active Citizenship

I believe that initiatives like ESA are fundamental to fostering young people’s engagement with politics and strengthening democracy within the European Union. They make European governance more accessible and help students feel actively involved in shaping the EU’s future, rather than perceiving it as something distant or abstract.

What surprised me most was seeing how shared European values brought us together, despite our different backgrounds and perspectives. This common ground showed me that diversity is not a barrier, but a strength that enriches dialogue and cooperation.

Looking Ahead with INVEST

This experience has strengthened my profile both as a student and as a future professional. It has provided me with skills, such as communication, adaptability, critical thinking, and confidence in international environments, that will be essential in my future career.

I see this as a natural continuation of my journey: an opportunity to remain actively engaged in European-level initiatives and to contribute to shaping student participation within the alliance.

If I could give one piece of advice to other students considering ESA or similar opportunities through INVEST, it would be this: go for it. These experiences are not reserved for experts or specific fields of study. They are for curious, motivated students who want to learn, contribute, and grow. Stepping outside your comfort zone is challenging, but incredibly rewarding.