Fiona Shillan, National Vice President of AIESEC UK, 2009-2010
‘Throughout my university career I was a key member of AIESEC in Strathclyde, Glasgow. I joined the organisation to do something extra with my time, other than my degree, and to gain skills that I believed would benefit me in my future career. I was part of AIESEC Strathclyde for 3 years – and the experience has been unforgettable.
Alongside a team of 5 I ran the society for one year, running skill sessions, supporting students who chose to work abroad with AIESEC, and developing those members who too wanted to gain something ‘extra’ from their time at university. Along the way I enhanced my own skill set, created some valuable friendships across the UK and gained a bigger perspective on how I, as an individual could have an impact on those around me. During this time, my team and I built up AIESEC in Strathclyde to be one of the strongest local committees in the UK, something which still stands today.
During the summer of 2008 I too chose to work abroad with AIESEC, and spent 2 incredible months teaching English in an NGO in Turkey. To live and work in another culture was not only challenging – it was truly fascinating. I gained some much needed life experience, as well as a strong awareness of other cultures and lifestyles. The experience gave me a huge amount of self-awareness, and in some ways changed me for the better. I urge all those who have yet to broaden their horizons in this way to get out there and experience something new.
I have trained at international conferences, been part of the organising team for national conferences in the UK (all with the focus on supporting the skill development and leadership development of today’s students) and I have had the amazing experience of driving AIESEC in UK as a National Vice President for one year. Working full-time for AIESEC has really challenged me both on a professional and personal level. AIESEC has given me a huge amount of tangible experiences that I can take on in my future career, as well as opening up so many opportunities – it is without a doubt the most memorable experience I have ever had.’