Broaden your horizons in Europe

Young people are being encouraged to broaden their horizons by travelling to Europe.
This was the basis for a series of secondary school visits in Carmarthenshire organised by Lorena Prist, from the West Wales European Centre, based in Carmarthen.
The visits coincided with the European Day of Languages, which is celebrated each year in countries all over Europe, and for a week, students in the county learnt all about the diversity of languages and cultures in the EU.
They also had information about EU grants available to improve their language skills and to experience for themselves another way of living and working.
One youngster who has spent time in Europe said: “Living in a different country has given me the opportunity to face new challenges, make new friends, and learn a new language.
“I feel from these experiences that I have grown as a person with more confidence, maturity and gained new skills.”
This is one of the many positive comments from young people throughout the UK who have benefited from a EU grant to study, volunteer or acquire work experience in another EU country.
Lorena, who is responsible for the Europe Direct EU information service for Carmarthenshire, said: “Spending as little as three months in another EU country studying, volunteering or on a work experience placement can be a real life-changing experience and I recommend it to every young person in Wales.
“It is a fantastic opportunity. Not only does it help with learning a new language, understanding other cultures and boosting confidence but it also prepares young people for their future in a very competitive global society.”
For more information about EU grants for young people, please contact Lorena Prist, on 01267 242369 or at lprist@carmarthenshire.gov.uk or visit www.wwec.org.uk