Noémie Falzon’s story takes us to a country in the European Union that we have not yet explored: Ireland. A country at the western end of Europe, and the second-largest island on the continent (after Great Britain). The magnificent scenery of Ireland’s Atlantic coastline faces a wide expanse of ocean, and its geographic isolation has aided in the development of a rich cultural and traditional heritage. Washed by abundant rain, the country’s pervasive grasslands create a green-hued landscape that is responsible for the well-known sobriquet “Emerald Isle”.

Let’s turn to our testimonial. This is how Noémie introduces herself: “My name is Noémie, I am 27 years old, I come from a small village in France, located in the Burgundy area, and I am a baker. This is not the first time changing countries, I have previously lived in Canada, in the Quebec region, a place that is very different from France but where French is still spoken! This second experience abroad with EURES TMS is the most important one for me because I have wanted to improve my English and test myself with a different language for many years. I had planned to gain experience in the United Kingdom, but Brexit has complicated transfers. As a result, I chose Ireland.” This decision was made easier because Noémie was aware of some European Union support programs for those seeking work opportunities abroad.

“Last year I passed the breadmaking exam and immediately started looking for a job here in Ireland. I was looking for a position that would allow me to hone my professional skills while also providing an opportunity to improve my English. After a quick search, I found the bakery where I am currently employed, in Dublin, and I immediately thought it was the right place for me. Dublin is a wonderful city that I would describe as ‘human scale’ because it’s not very big, but it has everything, and the people are welcoming and inclusive.”

But first, let’s go back in time and see how Noémie came to know EURES TMS. “I learned about the EURES program through the testimony of someone who had a similar experience to mine several years ago. I was inspired by her story and decided to contact Pôle Emploi (project partner ed. ), through whom I learned about the EURES TMS project.”

The Relocation benefit

“Among the various benefits available, I chose the relocation benefit. One of the issues here in Ireland, particularly in Dublin, is the high cost of housing. As a result, the financial assistance provided by EURES TMS was essential for me because it allowed me to find an immediate solution to a problem. I live in a large flat with many flatmates of various nationalities, and I am very happy. I found a nice place to live and a lot of friends with whom to share this experience.”

The experience as a pastry chef

Noémie is in love with her job and she does it with great passion. Her professional goal is to continue to grow and specialize in baking. “At the company where I work, I make bread and pastries. The bread we make is of the highest quality, the raw materials used are the best on the market, and our bread and cakes are as well!

We close the interview by asking Noémie to tell us what she has learnt from stepping outside of her comfort zone and whether she feels she has grown as a result of this experience abroad.

“I am very happy that I chose to have this experience of working abroad. These are unmissable opportunities that open your mind. It’s exciting to meet and interact with new and unique people and cultures. People are extremely friendly in Dublin, a culturally and humanely rich international city. At my workplace, there are many people from various countries, and it is fascinating to share space with people who have different customs and habits. It broadens your horizons and boosts your self-esteem. And, of course, my English has greatly improved!

I mentioned EURES TMS and how beneficial it can be to many people. People frequently believe that there are no opportunities, but if you look around, you will notice that the European Union funds numerous projects and programs that are a great stimulus to growth. I am extremely grateful to EURES TMS and the EU for providing me with this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

And we thank you, Noémie, for sharing your experience with our community!

If you look around a bit, there are so many projects and programmes funded by the European Union and they are a great stimulus to grow.