How Languages Can Lead to a Career in Diplomacy - A Day in the Life of an Ambassador

Two of our language students recently had the unique opportunity to spend a day as an ambassador, shadowing two different diplomats to learn more about the profession and gain valuable insights into the day-to-day workings of an embassy.

Nefeli Mousoulidou, a student of German in 3White, spent her day shadowing the German ambassador, Ms Anke Schlimm. She shared her experience, saying, "Seeing how an embassy works and how the German ambassador spends her day was very exciting. I got to see her in action being diplomatic and tactful but always respectful. I am so grateful I got to spend a day with such an intelligent woman like her. Getting to meet strong women in such demanding areas, like the German ambassador and the Cyprus commissioner for gender equality, was so lovely! I aspire to be like one of these amazing and successful women in the future!"

Antreana Kaplani, currently studying A-Level French, had the opportunity to spend two days shadowing the Ambassador of Portugal. She recounted her experience, saying, "The 'Ambassador for a Day' initiative took place in March 2023, aiming to promote women in diplomacy. I had the honour of being paired with the Ambassador of Portugal, whom I shadowed for two days. The experience consisted of me being introduced to everyone who works at the embassy, a working luncheon, a reception at the Catholic church, and a fair at Goethe Institute, where we promoted higher education and scholarship opportunities in Portugal. In the afternoon, everyone who took part in the initiative gathered at the French Residency, where we talked about our experience and the importance of more women being involved in diplomacy."

Reflecting on her experience, Antreana spoke about the importance of culture in diplomacy. "Having traveled to Portugal, I felt comfortable discussing the national cuisine, architecture, and literature, which not only allowed me to converse with people I had just met but also showed them that I respected and cared about their heritage. I could say the same about being at the French Residency, where I felt at ease, as I knew quite a lot about French culture, politics, and the way of living in general, through the syllabus of the A-level and my own interest in the country."

Both students learned that language skills are critical to success in diplomacy. Their experience shows that studying languages can lead to rewarding careers in diplomacy and international relations. At The English School we are proud to offer a rigorous language curriculum that prepares students for the opportunities and challenges of the global community.