Dreaming in Brussels
About the author: Senan Khawaja’24 is an FSI The Europe Center Global Policy Intern with the Lisbon Council. Senan is currently a student at Stanford University.
For 1.5 months, I had the incredible opportunity to work at the Lisbon Council, a renowned Think Tank located in the heart of Brussels, the European Union’s capital. It was a journey filled with learning, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of the intricacies of policy-making in Europe. The journey began with my arrival in Brussels, a city known for its rich history, multicultural ambiance, and pivotal role in European politics. Stepping off the plane, I could feel the excitement building as I embarked on this unique adventure. I had not been back to Europe for 5 years, and was excited to be visiting its capital for the first time. I was living in St.Joode a beautiful neighborhood filled with bakeries and residences that I quickly came to love. I was working at the Lisbon Council, located at the heart of the parliament district within Europe.
The Lisbon Council, with its dedication to fostering innovation and shaping EU policies, was the perfect place to dive into the world of think tanks. Its dynamic environment and passionate team members created an ideal atmosphere for intellectual growth. My time at the Lisbon Council was marked by involvement in various projects, each addressing pressing issues of our time. I was working on the tech policy and was able to meet to meet high level industry professionals and am currently NDA for my project. What struck me most was the collaborative culture at the Lisbon Council. Experts from diverse backgrounds, including economists, scientists, and political analysts, came together to brainstorm and develop innovative solutions. This interdisciplinary approach allowed for a holistic understanding of complex problems.Working in Brussels offered ample opportunities for networking and attending high-profile events. From policy forums and conferences to informal meet-ups, I had the chance to interact with policymakers, diplomats, and industry leaders, broadening my horizons and establishing valuable connections.
Outside of work, Brussels offered a treasure trove of cultural experiences. From exploring the historic Grand Place to indulging in Belgian chocolates and waffles, I cherished every moment of my stay in this vibrant city. I was able to also join an amazing community at the local gym I joined which I found to be an extremely welcoming and unique experience.
One of the highlights of my experience was the chance to learn from experts in their respective fields. The Lisbon Council’s team included some of the brightest minds in policy analysis and research, and their guidance and mentorship were invaluable in my personal and professional growth. One of the most rewarding aspects of my time at the Lisbon Council was the sense of contributing to meaningful change. Knowing that the policies and recommendations we were developing could potentially shape the future of Europe was both motivating and humbling. My 1.5 months at the Lisbon Council in Brussels were transformative, both professionally and personally. It was a journey of growth, learning, and inspiration. I left with a deeper understanding of policy-making in Europe, a broader network of contacts, and a sense of purpose in contributing to positive change. As I look back on this remarkable experience, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of the Lisbon Council and play a small role in shaping tomorrow’s policies in Europe. It’s a chapter of my life that I will always treasure, and I look forward to carrying the lessons learned into my future endeavors.
