How can enthusiastic students make sure they take all possible chances for an enriching and successful career? Which experiences cannot be missed out, and which opportunities are across the Atlantic for young American students today?

On 21 May 2014, Ecologic Institute hosted an afternoon workshop with junior and senior college students from Morehouse College and Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia in the United States. The workshop was comprised of two parts: the first part focused on three presentations by Ecologic employees Brandon Goeller, Elizabeth Dooley and Lucy O. Smith. Brandon Goeller introduced Ecologic Institute and explained its mission and objective as a transatlantic organization working in environmental policy in the European Union and internationally. He described the structure of the office and its competencies. Elizabeth Dooley went on to present the typical clients, projects and topics that Ecologic Institute works on. In a final presentation, Lucy O. Smith discussed some of the advantages of working in Europe and Berlin. She presented on everyday life and the work-life balance. The students actively participated with questions and comments.

During the second half of the event, students gathered in roundtable talks and engaged Ecologic Institute’s three representatives about their individual professional trajectories. During these roundtables, Brandon, Elizabeth and Lucy highlighted memorable and transforming experiences that helped guide and shape their careers in addition to their educational achievements and professional development.

In the discussions that followed, it became clear that international exchange and the opportunity to travel and experience other cultures was a key attribute to personal and professional development. Ecologic Institute’s Transatlantic Program was also highlighted as a unique employment opportunity for candidates interested in working abroad. Ecologic Institute’s transatlantic program offers a one year fellowship to young professionals from North, Central and South America.

The visit was organized by the Ecologic Institute in collaboration with the Cultural Vistas program.