Students at Liverpool Hope University were given an insight into the world of international diplomacy as part of a series of guest lectures which aim to inspire the next generation of political experts.
Viorel Raducanescu FICS, the Honorary Consul of Romania in Liverpool, visited the University to speak to as part of the Professionals in Politics programme of talks.
The series has been designed by the Politics and International Relations department in conjunction with Hope’s Careers team to give students access to the knowledge and expertise which will help them as they look to forge a career in the industry.
Mr Raducanescu discussed his journey to becoming a consulate and the role he plays in the diplomatic sector in the UK.
Students learnt about his responsibilities and the work he does to promote Romanian culture and business, as well as his efforts to protect the interest of Romanian citizens temporarily or permanently residing in the UK, which can include issuing passports, issuing visas and public diplomacy.
Mr Raducanescu’s presentation also gave students the opportunity to discuss the current situation in Ukraine and its wider implications for Romania and Europe, as well as the impact of Brexit in both Romania and Britain.
“We received really positive feedback from our students following this talk,” said Dr Catalina Montoya Londono, Senior Lecturer in International Relations in the School of Humanities.
“Mr Raducanescu provided excellent student advice on building the skills needed for diplomacy and answered questions on the broader international challenges of Romania.
“What stood out was the need for students to work hard and learn their trade well in order to build on their professional experience and good understanding of the world around them so that they can forge a successful career in politics and international relations.”
Chris Biggs, the University’s Head of Student Development and Employability added: “It is important for students to hear from professionals working in sectors that are relevant to their subjects.
“We aim to encourage students to learn more, be curious and explore all potential career options.
“People such as Viorel Raducanescu have jobs which some students may not have realised exist. This helps prompt further investigation and could spark a career pathway which was previously unknown or not considered.
“The Professionals in Politics series allows students to hear from a diverse range of people and professions who have had different career journeys. This helps provide some realism about the labour market and also inspires and informs their own career choices and pathways.”
Billy Lake, Liberal Councillor for Tuebrook and Stoneycroft, is the next speaker in the Professionals in Politics series on Monday 14 November and further talks are planned throughout the 2022-23 academic year.
For more information please contact Alumni Engagement and Corporate Events Manager, Jacqui Sanders: sanderj@hope.ac.uk.