Shadab Ali Mian
MSc/MRes International Relations Study Trip to Brussels
As part of my MSc International Relations programme, I had the incredible opportunity to join the five-day study trip to Brussels. I’ve always been interested in how international organisations shape our world, and Brussels, often called ‘the capital of Europe’, proved to be the perfect place to explore that interest. The study trip was designed with two main aims: to deepen our academic understanding of regional integration and global politics, and to expose us to policy-oriented career paths. For me, it achieved both in ways I hadn’t fully expected.
This study trip not only offered me access to the workings of key institutions, but also a chance to connect the academic studies of my programme with real-world international relations practice. Before this trip, most of my knowledge about the European Union and global institutions came from lectures and readings. While that provided a strong foundation, nothing quite compares to physically being in the places where decisions are made.
One of the most valuable aspects of this trip was how it bridged the gap between academic theory and practical policymaking. From visiting institutions like the European Parliament and the European Commission to speaking with professionals working in diplomacy, policy, and advocacy, the trip was a powerful reminder of how theory connects with practice. Each visit, session and presentation, added context to the topics I engaged with in my coursework.
One of our first visits was to the European Commission, where we learned how the Commission not only drafts legislation and manages the EU’s budget but also acts as a diplomatic and regulatory power globally. Hearing from those working inside the institution gave me a clearer, more personal understanding of how these structures function beyond what any reading could convey.
Another key highlight for me was visiting the European External Action Service (EEAS). We had a briefing that covered the EU’s foreign policy approach and it was fascinating to hear how the EU crafts its foreign policy, balancing values, interests, and the diverse perspectives of its all-member states.
At Scotland House Brussels we had the chance to meet professionals who work on behalf of Scotland in the EU. All of them were University of Glasgow alumni, and hearing their career journeys felt incredibly encouraging. The visit helped me understand how Scotland continues to engage with EU, promote its interests, and build partnerships on matters like climate change, education, and innovation. As someone studying in Scotland, it was fascinating to see how the Scottish Government maintains a presence within the European Union, even after Brexit.
The most inspiring parts of the whole trip was visiting the European Parliament and sitting inside the Hemicycle chamber. It was surreal to be in the room where major debates and decisions take place that affect not only the EU’s 27 member states but often the wider international community as well. For instance, the EU's policy requiring all smartphones and electronic devices to adopt a universal USB-C adapter is a perfect example of this global influence. Even though the regulation was introduced within the EU, it affected tech companies and consumers all over the world, including those using Apple products outside of Europe. This showed me how EU legislation can shape global market practices and consumer standards far beyond its borders, something I hadn’t fully realised before the trip.
The trip wasn’t all about formal visits to the international institutions, it was also about bonding with classmates and exploring a new city together. We were a group of 39 students on the trip, from around 20 different countries. Being together for five days, learning, exploring, and sharing perspectives, gave us a wonderful chance to network, not just with the professionals we met, but also with each other.
Looking back, I can honestly say this study trip was one of the most impactful parts of my student journey at University of Glasgow. It helped me move beyond the academic theory and into the reality of how international relations works on the ground. It also showed me the complexities and possibilities of working in global governance and gave me the confidence to imagine myself playing a part in it one day.