IRELAND - Julian

On deciding to study at the University of Rome, I was initially very nervous about my decision. I had very limited Italian language skills prior to departure and was concerned about how I would be able to understand the classes. The first three months were really tough, I struggled to understand the Professors and to adapt to a completely different learning and cultural environment. However I persevered and by Christmas it started to "click".

The subsequent six months were amongst the most memorable and enjoyable of my life. I was able to converse freely with other students in Italian, understand the curriculum, and really appreciate the wonders of living in Rome.

I Joined Bass Brewers, Bass PLC Graduate scheme in September 1996 and worked as Sales Manager in the UK until February 1998 when I joined Britvic International Soft Drinks (Bass PLC). I worked as Country Manager for Poland and became Regional Manager, Central Europe for brand launches in Russia, Finland etc.

The Erasmus experience has stood to me ever since in various ways:

When working for Bass PLC, I was on the team to launch a new drink in Poland. I was based in the UK and travelled to Poland weekly. However, through the confidence that I had gained from my year in Rome, I asked to be transferred to live in Poland. I remembered the initial tough period in Rome and was thus prepared for a similar experience in Warsaw. I learned the language intensively and after three months was able to converse with the local management team in Polish. This led to a very successful launch strategy with significant local input

I am currently at Harvard Business School, USA, as a candidate for Master in Business Administration (MBA),

The friendships that I made at the University of Rome have remained as strong, seven years later. I meet up with my Erasmus friends, at least once every year, these days mostly at weddings!