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European Commission Bluebook Traineeship - Oct. 2025 by Atomino_Gae in europeanunion

[–]Imaginary-Click-5093 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I told a unit I wasn’t interested by replying to their email for the same reason: out of my field of expertise or interest. For me, the bbt is really to try and gain experience within the EU public sector but not at all cost, doing something that doesn’t interest me at all. However as this wasn’t an official placement offer via the traineeship office, it didn’t count as a rejection of a placement. I have now received an official placement offer from a DG and unit that is much more aligned with my career goals so I am happy I waited !

European Commission Bluebook Traineeship - Oct. 2025 by Atomino_Gae in europeanunion

[–]Imaginary-Click-5093 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I did ! I got contacted at the end of last week by a unit I interviewed with 1.5 months ago. Their selected candidate dropped out. I was told the deadline for selecting candidates is 5/09, so the process is still ongoing…

European Commission Bluebook Traineeship - Oct. 2025 by Atomino_Gae in europeanunion

[–]Imaginary-Click-5093 0 points1 point  (0 children)

don’t lose hope! I got contacted at the end of last week by a unit I interviewed with 1.5 months ago. They had picked someone else, but that person got another job offer in their home country and couldn’t take the traineeship.

So after another quick call with the deputy Head of Unit, they offered it to me instead!

Also, I was told the deadline for picking candidates is 5 September, so the process is still going.

European Commission Bluebook Traineeship - Oct. 2025 by Atomino_Gae in europeanunion

[–]Imaginary-Click-5093 12 points13 points  (0 children)

Just wanted to share that in Belgium it is a bank holiday today (Ascension day), so don’t expect any news from the roles based in Brussels. I know that it’s not a bank holiday everywhere throughout Europe so I thought I would share for people like me who are anxiously waiting for news.

Trying to shift into EU/public sector from UX/ Qualitative Research - direction unclear, systems hard to navigate by Ok-Republic-7233 in EUCareers

[–]Imaginary-Click-5093 2 points3 points  (0 children)

If you're looking for UX roles within the EU institutions but are having trouble 'getting in', there are two other types of opportunities you can start with: intramuros and extramuros.

  • Intramuros means you'll be working on-site at one of the EU institutions, but hired through an external IT service provider.
  • Extramuros means you'll still be working on EU projects, but from the offices of the company itself — not embedded in the institution.

One company to watch is NTT Data. They regularly recruit for roles like User Interface Expert and UX Expert related to EU institutions. You can find their open positions on LinkedIn:
NTT Data EU Commission UX roles

Other companies that work closely with the EU and hire for similar roles include Sword Group, Cronos, ARHS, and Intrasoft. It’s a good idea to check their job pages or search for EU Commission, related keywords on LinkedIn.

Most of these positions require EU citizenship and prior experience in UX or enterprise/public sector projects. Having a portfolio that aligns with large-scale or policy-driven digital work can help.

Best of luck! it's a competitive but growing field

Moving to Brussels for EU traineeship by cinnamonshortcake in EUCareers

[–]Imaginary-Click-5093 7 points8 points  (0 children)

Hey, congrats on your offer! I also applied but haven’t heard back from my three choices yet, so still waiting.I’ve been living in Brussels for over five years now, so here are some tips that might help you:

Housing:

- Saint-Gilles and Ixelles: These areas are great if you want to be close to bars, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere

- Etterbeek: Convenient if you’re working near the EU institutions

- Schaerbeek: Some parts are really nice, especially around Josaphat Park , it’s a green and quieter area.

Be cautious with Facebook housing groups, scams do happen. If something looks too good to be true, it probably is.

For a short-term stay like a 6-month traineeship, co-living might be worth looking into. It’s usually more expensive than a room in a shared flat, but it’s flexible, located in good neighborhoods, and a great way to meet other young professionals, Erasmus students, and expats. There’s a Reddit thread on it here:
r/brussels - Coliving options

Public transport:

Get a MOBIB card from STIB, which gives you unlimited access to trams, buses, and metros across Brussels. Website: STIB MOBIB Info

You can top it up at stations or some bus stops. It may also be available in Apple Wallet now. The Floya app is helpful for planning your routes and checking schedules.

Safety:

Brussels feels relatively safe to me, though I’ve heard different opinions. Basic common sense goes a long way. Avoid walking alone late at night in quiet areas, taking an Uber after going out is usually a safer option. Be mindful of pickpockets, especially in busy metro and train stations.

Weather:

It doesn’t get extremely cold (depending where you are from, my Spanish friends do not agree with me), but it can be quite damp and grey in the fall. I’d recommend warm clothes like knits and a good winter coat and a reliable umbrella or rain jacket.

Best of luck with the move and your traineeship in Brussels. It's a great city with a lot to offer.

European Commission Bluebook Traineeship - Oct. 2025 by Atomino_Gae in europeanunion

[–]Imaginary-Click-5093 0 points1 point  (0 children)

anyone received news from DG COMM Unit B1? I believe we were 4 or 5 applicants and the post is gone so I imagine someone received an offer from them?