Meet the Student Representatives of the Jacques Delors Promotion

European Economic Studies Department (ECO)

Silvia MÁRQUEZ THIBAUT

¡Hola! I’m Silvia and I’m from Valencia, Spain. I am a student representative for the ECO department together with Matthew. I hold a BA (Hons) Dual Award in International Business from the University of Valencia and Nottingham Trent University, as well as an MSc in Economics and Finance from the University of Navarra. I chose to further my studies in economics because I aspire to make a positive impact on society's well-being. My experience as a student representative began at NTU, where I also enjoyed life in a multicultural environment for two years. This experience deepened my desire to work in such a diverse atmosphere—something I’m living again here at the College! As for my personal interests, I studied piano at the conservatory and played the saxophone in my town's orchestra in Rocafort inspired by Valencia’s rich musical culture. Beyond music, I also enjoy reading, traveling, and exploring nature, and I am a passionate foodie!

I decided to study at the College because I believe it is the best postgraduate institution dedicated to European studies. I was particularly interested in pursuing a more specialized education in European economics, and I truly think it was the best decision I could have made. Additionally, the College atmosphere, along with the numerous extracurricular activities and opportunities it offers is, in my opinion, unparalleled. It fosters both academic and personal growth, as I am surrounded by people from diverse backgrounds who are united in contributing to the future of Europe.

Matthew TALBOT 

Dia dhuit! Hello! I am Matthew from Galway, in the west of Ireland. I have a BSc in Financial Mathematics & Economics from the University of Galway and I am currently enrolled on the MSc in European Economics Studies program here at the College of Europe. I worked on the Economics and Trade desk at the Irish Embassy in Washington D.C. which inspired me to pursue a master's in economics here at the College. In my spare time, I teach mathematics, play football and read (both fiction and non-fiction, I’m not fussy!). I founded the University of Galway Economics Society where I served as Chairperson. I also began my student representative journey during my undergraduate degree, where I was elected as Class Representative for each of the four years. I enjoy working with people and I’m looking forward to the year ahead as a student representative for the ECO department!

While working in Washington D.C. I met several alumni, working at the EU Delegation to the US, who impressed me with their unique expertise and insights into European affairs which they attributed to their time spent at the College The distinguished academic offerings, combined with the opportunity to deepen my knowledge and understanding of European Economics meant that the College of Europe was the best place for me to continue my studies. I am excited to meet people from across the continent and further afield and to learn from the variety of backgrounds and perspectives that the College has to offer.

European Law Department (LAW)

Marta VÁZQUEZ LERENA

¡Hola! I am Marta and I come from Madrid. Together with Francesco, I am a student representative for the LAW department. My interest in international affairs took off after a high school exchange year in Canada, which inspired me to pursue a dual bachelor's in international studies and law. Although I did not plan on studying law, I discovered a genuine passion for it when I realized that it is a powerful tool for creating positive change. Throughout my studies, I have had the chance to live in Boston and Brussels and I have interned at law firms and pro-bono organizations, which have enriched my professional journey and fueled my desire to advocate for justice. I am now excited to be working toward my LLM at the College and representing LAW students. Outside of academics, I am passionate about the arts—whether I am dancing, diving into a good book (when I can escape case law), enjoying musicals and museums, or painting, I believe creativity is essential to a fulfilling life.

I chose to study at the College of Europe for its outstanding academic programs, renowned faculty, and dynamic and multicultural community. For me, the College offers the perfect setting to deepen my expertise in EU Law and build the skills needed for a successful career in EU affairs, while contributing together with other students to shaping the future of Europe.

Francesco MAURI

Ciao! I am Francesco, one of the two student reps from LAW, and I come from Casale Monferrato, a little town located between Turin and Milan in northern Italy. My academic studies began at Bocconi University in Milan, where I also started my journey into student representation. My main academic passions are EU and Constitutional law, so much so that I have earned the label of ‘constitutional fundamentalist’ (lol). Turning to actual ‘fun’ facts about me, I am an avid piano player (seriously, we need to do something about the piano in Dijver!), and I cannot start my day without my beloved Snoopy-themed coffee mug.

Last year, studying EU law at Maastricht University, I found the subject so fascinatingly complex that I knew I wasn’t done with it. The College offered me the perfect opportunity to deepen EU law with insights from both academic and professional experts. But the College is also an opportunity to grow as a person, creating bonds with such a special community. Ok, this might sound like my College motivation letter, but honestly, these first few weeks have already shown me how true it is.

EU International Relations and Diplomacy Studies Department (IRD)

Angelina WAGNER

Kalimera! I am Angelina and together with Louis, we are the student representatives of the IRD department. I grew up in Greece before moving to France at 16 (thank you financial crisis...). I pursued my legal studies for five years, earning a bachelor's degree from Panthéon-Assas University in Paris and two LL.Ms— in European law from Humboldt University in Berlin, and in Public International Law from the University of Amsterdam. I am passionate about the protection and promotion of human rights, particularly the rights of women, LGBT+ individuals, migrants, and refugees. My friends often describe me as an idealist who believes she can fix everything wrong in the world – and considers it her personal responsibility to do so. Advocacy on human rights issues consistently drives my work, and I hope to promote change here, at the College, as a student representative and Co-President of SAGE. On a more personal note, I’m passionate about solo traveling (my favorite country so far: India), I am firmly convinced I can get anyone addicted to the gym, and I could spend hours explaining why I love chia seeds.

After mainly focusing on legal work, I joined the EU Delegation's human rights team in Geneva last year and discovered my passion for diplomacy. Through conversations with College alumni working in Geneva, I learnt about this unique institution and realised that my academic journey was not complete. Being in Bruges now, I can definitely say it was the right choice, as the College gives me the opportunity to engage with a community of driven individuals, dedicated to social causes and to shaping the future of the EU with fresh ideas.

Louis ACCOU

"To understand the EU, you have to live the EU". 

After obtaining a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from Katholieke Hogeschool VIVES and a Master's degree in Law from KU Leuven, I am delighted to represent the students of the MA 'EU International Relations and Diplomacy Studies' at the College of Europe in Bruges. This year at the College will be an immersive experience, living with people from over 35 different nationalities, interacting with high-level experts and being exposed to different perspectives. Spending a year at the College is a dream come true for me, after being constantly exposed to the complexity and even more the idealistic foundations of the European project. This exposure began with my academic journey and was further enriched by my internships at the Consulate General of Belgium in France and the Constitutional Court in Brussels, as well as my qualification for the European Law Moot Court Competition regional finals in Vienna last year. 

Each of these experiences has not only broadened my understanding of the EU, but also deepened my appreciation for its ideals, showing that the European project is not just an abstract concept or a bureaucratic process, but a living project of solidarity and cooperation. For this reason, and as student representatives, our team is committed to making the most of this incredible year and ensuring that every student, department, professor and staff member truly experiences what it means “to live the EU” here at the College. 

Master of Arts in Transatlantic Affairs (MATA) 

Alison WETZELAER

Moikka / Hoi! I am a dual Finnish and Dutch national studying Transatlantic Affairs, with a specialization in International Relations and Diplomacy, here at the College. After completing my European Baccalaureate in Brussels, I studied Politics, Psychology, Law, and Economics (PPLE) at the University of Amsterdam. An exchange in law school in Canada and my travels in North America solidified my interest in social justice issues, diplomacy and international law, which inspired me to complete an LL.M. in Public International Law (coincidentally, the same one completed by Angelina a year before me!). Alongside my studies, I have actively advocated for human rights and women’s rights through student-led initiatives and global youth conferences, provided pro bono research support for the Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking, and been involved in local green initiatives. Prior to joining the College of Europe, I also worked at a law firm in the Netherlands and volunteered at a law clinic providing support for a UN Human Rights Committee member. On a more personal note, I love spending time with my family and friends, music (I know the lyrics to TS’ songs all too well...) and dancing, and I am on a quest to find the perfect matcha in Brugge to keep me awake in our 9 AM Saturday classes. As a former competitive swimmer, I also try to find time to be active: you will likely find me running in the streets of Brugge or completing HIIT workouts!

Given my international and interdisciplinary background, as well as my multiple interests and passions such as human rights, upholding the rule of law, the EU’s external action, and sustainability, completing a joint degree at the College of Europe and the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy seemed like the natural choice for me. Additionally, studying at the College was always my mother’s dream. Being part of the Jacques Delors promotion as a first-generation university student is therefore very special for both of us!

European Political and Governance Studies Department (POL)

Angela LOPEZ RIVAS

Hola! I am Ángela, a student representative for the POL department together with Charline. I come from Madrid, Spain, a city that I love and where I studied for a double bachelor's degree in international studies and business (University Carlos III of Madrid). During my studies, I had the opportunity to participate in an Erasmus exchange in Innsbruck, Austria, as well as at the University of California, Los Angeles. My professional journey includes a traineeship at the Spanish Embassy in Vienna, working with the Spanish presidency of the Council of the EU, and completing an internship in the Central Secretariat of the European Parliament, where I took part in the Schuman Trainee Committee, a similar role to Student Representative. Alongside my studies and work, I have developed a strong interest in gender and migration studies, which I hope to expand at the College. On a personal note, I love spending time with my family and reading, and I am always down to have a coffee (even our beloved cafeteria one!)

It has always been a dream of mine to work for the European Project, and I consider the College to be the only institution that offers such a comprehensive program in European Political and Governance studies. It feels unreal to be in such a unique environment, surrounded by people from all over the world interested in European Integration.

Charline Dos REIS BARREIRA

Bonjour! Olá! My name is Charline dos REIS BARREIRA and I am a student representative for the POL department together with Angela. I am 24 years old, and I am proudly French and Portuguese. While I have spent my entire life in France, my roots are Portuguese. Growing up, I developed a passion for law, which drove me to pursue a dual degree in French and Spanish law at the University of Nanterre and an exchange in Argentina at the University of Buenos Aires. After that, I dived into a double master's program in European Criminal Law and International Criminal Law at UPPA and the University of Bordeaux. I fell head over heels for both subjects, each unique yet beautifully interconnected. A pivotal moment was a discussion group on European Union litigation, where I discovered the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO). It was love at first sight! This institution, the first independent European body with its own judicial powers, represents everything I dream of: working within European agencies, practicing law, and contributing to the ever-growing project of the EU. Along the way, I have been fortunate to be part of several European initiatives. One of those projects has taken me on adventures across Portugal, Italy, Romania, and Spain, giving me a taste of what it is like to study and work in a variety of vibrant European settings. Oh, and when I am not geeking out over European Criminal Law, you can find me indulging in my love for music. Sometimes, you might even hear my voice resonating through the Gouden Hand! 

Studying at the College of Europe has always been a dream for me. I grew up in a middle-class environment, where getting into prestigious schools seemed like an impossible goal. But people like Federica Mogherini, the College itself, and the incredible students who make it what it is, have shown me that with hard work, ambition, and determination, anything is possible. This institution welcomes anyone ready to fight for their future! I chose to study at the College of Europe because it’s the launchpad for students and professionals who want to truly understand Europe and be active players in its ongoing development. This is where we become part of Europe’s future, contributing to its never-ending evolution: I could not be more excited about being part of that journey!

Joint Statement 

As the College’s Bruges student representatives of the Jacques Delors promotion of 2024- 2025, we recognize the responsibility vested in us in making all students’ voices heard and meaningfully contributing to the College. Despite coming from different walks of life, we all share the same dedication to actively shaping Europe’s future and leaving the College in a better state for both current and future students. We also understand the importance of honouring the legacy of Jacques Delors, who was committed to European integration.

In conformity with ‘l’esprit du Collège’, we are committed to fostering mutual understanding and respect between students, faculty, and staff members; encouraging constructive and open dialogue, and ensuring the College meets its high academic and professional standards. We are devoted to enriching and improving the College community in a manner that has a lasting, positive impact. Therefore, we strive to listen to students’ concerns and tackle common, widespread issues present across the study departments, as well as departmental-specific issues, by collaborating with the College administration, our professors, and the College staff in a spirit of cooperation, tolerance, and solidarity.

Additionally, as we begin our student journey at the College, we aim to utilize the opportunities, resources, and networks offered by our institution. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and respectful environment where everyone can excel both academically and personally, and where strong, lasting and meaningful relationships can be built. We look forward to working together with the whole College community to achieve this vision.

We believe that our promotion is not only a cohort, but a community based on shared values that is driven by a common aspiration of creating a more united Europe. As we build upon and extend the legacy of Jacques Delors, we are inspired by his dedication to the European integration project. As we move through this academic journey and life, let us not only be guided by his work but also by all those who came before us and shaped Europe into the home we know today.

Vive l’Europe! 

Sincerely, 

The Student Representatives of the Jacques Delors Promotion