Bernadette Flynn (BA Language & Cultural Studies, Italian and English, 2009)

'I graduated from the BA programme in 2009. My two subjects were English and Italian. I feel they complemented each other very well both in University and in the working world. I did the Erasmus programme in 2008 and it was the best decision I ever made. I went to Padova which is a beautiful city and travelled all over Italy as well as neighbouring countries. My Italian improved hugely during this year and gave me the confidence to speak with Italians in their native language more fluently.

'After graduating I went straight into an English orientated Masters in England. Having recently finished my Masters in Shakespeare Studies I got an interview with Nelson Thornes Ltd. an educational publishing company. My new title is International School Sales Representative and although I have only been there a short time I love my job. Having a language and in living in a foreign country for a year put me in an excellent position for the job. Without that international experience I feel my chances would have been a lot lower.

'I am very interested in keeping up my Italian and with this job I can. One of the countries I will be dealing with is Italy and I will be going there shortly with my job.

'I would encourage anyone and everyone to do a modern langauge and take advantage of the Erasmus year as in the global market place there are better opportunities for graduates if they have studied a modern foreign langauge at University.'

(From FB)