“My name is Barbara, I’m originally from Slovakia and I have been working for the EU institutions for nearly 10 years. I had the opportunity to work for the department dealing with Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection. DG ECHO is an expression of ‘EU solidarity in action’ for people in need. It’s a very enriching work to help the EU save lives in Europe and worldwide. Currently, I work in DG Migration and Home Affairs, leading a press team, and focusing on topics of migration, borders and security. 

To become an EU civil servant, I had to pass the EPSO competition with nearly 30.000 candidates for 147 posts. Practically speaking, this means 0.5% probability of succeeding or in other words, 5 out of 1.000 candidates succeeded. My advice for future candidates? Work hard on your knowledge, practice and train yourself. Don’t give up. Don’t forget to work on your mindset at the same time. Like with any sport – “practice makes the master” and overall, the experience will develop your skills, knowledge and grow further.”