Name: Nia

Title of job: Policy Officer for National Assembly for Wales European Union Office in Brussels

Languages studied for A level: English, French and Spanish

Subjects studied at university: French and Politics

University: University of Wales, Aberystwyth

Best thing about the course:
The best thing about the course was the year abroad as I was given the opportunity to live and study in Aix en Provence for a year. I loved learning about another culture and having such a great opportunity!

Where did you spend your year out?
I spent it in Aix en Provence in France.

Do you think that the fact that you studied languages helped you to obtain this post?
Yes, without a doubt as I use my languages frequently. I use French in work but Spanish outside work as I have a lot of Spanish speaking friends, I am also married to a French man.

Could you tell us more about the nature of the job outlining main tasks and responsibilities?
One of my main responsibilities is to disseminate EU policy information to the Ministers and officers at the Assembly. I also promote and inform the European Parliament of the policies of the National Assembly for Wales.

What other jobs have you done since leaving university?
I worked for Local Government. I have also taught English in France as well as in Bahrain in the Middle East where I studied Arabic for two years..

What is the best thing about learning another language in your opinion?
The ability to communicate with people all over the world, I can use French in Belgium, Switzerland and elsewhere and I can use Spanish in Spain and in South American countries.

What would you say to those who are reluctant to carry on with their languages?
You should really consider languages for your future.