With a background that bridges literature and international relations, and a passion for European politics, education, and international cooperation, Adama brings new perspectives and enthusiasm to the team. To get to know her better, we asked Adama a few questions about her journey, motivations, and ambitions.
Could you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?
My name is Adama Bah, I’m 24 years old, originally from Guinea (Conakry), and I’ve been living in Belgium since I was 10. I actually have quite an atypical academic background - not only because I first studied Modern Languages and Literature before moving into International Relations, but also because of how my journey started. Back in Guinea, I had skipped grades due to strong academic performance. But when I arrived in Belgium, I was made to repeat a year - not because I failed or took a placement test, but simply due to the system’s assumptions. It’s something many immigrants experience: a kind of reset that doesn’t always reflect their true potential. That experience shaped me. It taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of not letting labels define you.
As I have said, I completely changed my path after my bachelor’s degree. At first glance, these fields might seem worlds apart, but literature is deeply political - it reflects the social and political issues of its time. For me, studying literature was like decoding the emotional and ideological DNA of societies. It helped me understand how communities express their struggles and aspirations, and how the past can shed light on the present. Shifting to International Relations was a natural next step; it was a way to deepen this curiosity and explore the dynamics between powers and the global challenges we face today. As George Orwell once said, The most effective way to destroy people is to deny and obliterate their own understanding of their history. That quote has always reminded me why both literature and international relations matter.
What inspired you to apply for an internship at Circle U.?
I was very motivated by Circle U.’s ambition to connect universities across Europe and to contribute to shaping the future of higher education and research. I wanted to be part of an international environment where I can learn about policy processes and also contribute to something concrete and innovative.
What are your main responsibilities in your role?
I mainly contribute to policy monitoring and analysis, support the coordination of projects and events, and assist the team in their daily activities. It’s a mix of research, organisation and teamwork.
What do you hope to learn or achieve during your internship here?
I hope to gain a deeper understanding of European higher education and research policies, and to improve my skills in policy analysis and project coordination. I also want to experience how a European alliance like Circle U. works in practice.
Have you already discovered something surprising or inspiring about Circle U. in your first days?
Yes! I was impressed by how collaborative the network is. Even though Circle U. brings together different universities and cultures, there is a strong sense of common purpose and cooperation. That was really inspiring for me.
What are some of your academic or professional passions?
I’m passionate about European politics and international relations, especially how institutions adapt to new challenges like digitalisation and security. I also enjoy topics related to education and the role of young people in shaping policies.
Outside of work and studies, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Normally, I really enjoy reading, watching series, and just relaxing. These are my go-to ways to unwind and recharge. But lately, with a very busy schedule and a demanding part-time job, I’ve had less time to dedicate to these hobbies. So whenever I do get a quiet moment, I truly appreciate it.
Can you share one fun fact about yourself that your colleagues might not know yet?
One fun fact about me is that my dream is to become an entrepreneur. I hope to invest in several sectors in my home country (Guinea) and, if everything goes well, eventually move back there permanently. So, during my free time, I often find myself researching which markets are thriving or struggling back home, exploring business ideas, and thinking about how to structure my current and future projects.
Fun fact 2: Also, I spent almost my entire school career in Dutch immersion, so technically, I should be fluent in Dutch… but I’m not at all! (laughs) That said, I’m planning to get back into it soon – it’s on my to-do list.
What skills or experiences are you most excited to develop while you’re here?
I’m especially excited to improve my policy analysis skills and to gain more confidence in working in an international and professional environment. I also want to develop my organisational and communication abilities by helping with events and projects.
During this internship, I hope to gain practical experience, but also to build a strong network and meet people from different backgrounds. I believe that connecting with others and exchanging ideas is just as important as the technical skills we develop. I’m also excited to learn more about how international academic collaborations work in practice.
And actually, I’ve already had the chance to meet some amazing people - whether they’re just starting out like me, as interns or new employees, or more experienced and well-established in their roles. Everyone has been incredibly kind, open, and welcoming, which has made the experience even more enriching
Welcome to the Circle U. team!
We are excited to have Adama with us this autumn and look forward to her contributions in the coming months. Her energy, curiosity, and international outlook are a perfect match for the Circle U. mission of enhancing collaboration across universities and cultures. Please join us in giving her a warm welcome!
Become our next intern
Circle U. is offering a unique internship opportunity for master students enrolled at or recently graduated from one of our partner universities.
- Location: Circle U. office in Brussels
- Application deadline: 14 November 2025 for the winter internship.
