Study Visit at TermCoord

1997

I had the opportunity to carry out a Study Visit in the Communication team of the Terminology Coordination Unit  of the European Parliament, as part of my university studies. Currently in my first year of Master’s degree, I first had to pass a course on Terminology in the first semester before I could apply for this Study Visit. I had a very wide choice regarding my availabilities, and then received a positive answer for a 3-week internship in April. 

Week 1

During the first week, I felt a little stressed to be honest, because this was my very first time in the professional field. However, everyone was very welcoming and I immediately felt comfortable. I have discovered the parliament’s website, the different sections, my colleagues and other very friendly trainees who answer all my questions. From the first day, I did a little brainstorming about what I could write. I also participated in several meetings that allowed me to understand how other communication trainees worked and proposed ideas for new articles. As for the articles I had to write, I had an appointment with my supervisor to review the situation, or with other trainees. I had received some instructions regarding the themes of the articles: an interview with a linguist/terminologist, an article about food terminology and a linguistic article.

After a few days, I finalized my first Food Term of The Week article and found a linguist to interview.

Week 2

During the second week, I participated in several meetings for interns in communication and terminology. They allowed us to take stock of what will be published this week, but also of the various projects and collaborations underway. One of these meetings took place in the Schuman Building with all the trainees, which was quite impressive. Regarding my task, I also had to carry out several researches on specific terms or on specific software, to advance the publication of certain articles.

Week 3

I learned how to schedule a publication and create banners to make them more attractive. I am now familiar with platforms such as Canva and Shutterstock, which allows me to find beautiful illustrations and animations for my articles.

The thing that I liked the most about this experience was the very pleasant working atmosphere in which everyone was involved, and of good will towards each other. I think that beyond doing a job, it is very important to know how to maintain a good atmosphere within the team to contribute to the productivity of the group.


Written by Robine Bonsenge – Study Visitor in Communication at the Terminology Coordination Unit of the European Parliament (Luxembourg) and currently enrolled in the Master in Learning and Communication in Multilingual and Multicultural Contexts at the University of Luxembourg. She holds a Bachelor degree in European Cultures (French section). She speaks French, English, Lingala, Dutch and she is learning German.