Introducing … Zhang Yudan

Yudan has recently joined our internships programme. She will be with us full time from 20 September until 19 December. She comes from China and studies British Studies at the Humboldt Universitaet zu Berlin.

We have asked her five questions in order for you to get to know her.

What convinced you to join the Cardiff EDC for an internship?

I was attracted by Cardiff EDC for several reasons when I saw the list of placement providers from my university. Firstly, previous students’ reports told me that the work here will allow me to gain more insights into European issues from various perspectives, which suits my study and my plan to do some research on British politics for my master’s thesis. Secondly, it has a big name which I think would lighten my CV. Thirdly, it is ideal for me to do the internship in a university as there are many resources that I can probably use for my thesis. Fourthly, Cardiff University was where I applied for last year before deciding to study in Germany, so this is a perfect chance to experience this city and university where I could have come one year ago.

What are you currently studying and how does this relate to your work at the EDC?

My British Studies programme covers a wide range of topics about Britain, including politics, law, economics, history, literature, and so on. That’s also the reason why this internship in Britain is necessary and compulsory for me as it will deepen my understanding about real life in the UK. Besides, topics related to Europe are an indispensable part of my study and particularly at this point, the relationship between the EU and the UK is heatedly discussed, so I think the work at the EDC is helpful in keeping my understanding updated and providing a broad context for my study.

What do you hope to achieve whilst working at the EDC?

I hope to further improve my communication skills in a workplace, experience the UK’s higher education atmosphere, and find inspiration for my master’s thesis.

How are you finding the experience of working at the Cardiff EDC and living in Cardiff so far?

The work is quite helpful and not very stressful at the same time. I’m able to do readings that interest me and I like the feeling that I get to know the latest issues happening, although sitting in front of the screen for a whole day also makes me tired.

Cardiff is a quiet and small city compared to Berlin. The river, Bute Park and the Bay are enjoyable.

Could you briefly tell us what Europe means and has meant to you?

Europe is a place that often appears in TV programmes in China. It means high living standards, breath-taking scenery, and the most developed society. I would say the culture difference is big but also smaller than people’s imagination to some degree. I travelled in Europe for a couple of times before studying here so it is not strange for me. I believe the two years I spend here will be a memorable part in my life, and I hope my future career could be related to Europe in some way. Studying in Europe must be a mark in my journey to know the world.