Antonio is our previous Italian student who came for his internship in September 2016 and stayed until November. He was working at the University bar. Only five days after the end of his stay in Portsmouth, he was already returning back.

Antonio is very ambitious and hardworking young man, who is extremely passionate about coffee and plans to open his own coffee place in the future!

 

In a short interview, Antonio talked about his experience in UK and with The IBD Partnership.

 

It was more fun during the first stay – we were all together with friends and we were going to clubs. At first, I never thought that I can job here and make future. Day after day I started to see more opportunities. And then – Carpe diem! I like in a happy way. I like to work and if is paid, even better!

I was here for 2 months within EU funded project. I returned here after five days. Then it was a little bit sad as I was away from family and friends!

 

* Was it a useful experience for you both professionally and personally?

I learnt to become more independent – wash clothes, make money and etc.

When I understood that I can do something very well, I tried to improve my skills in this area, for example, drawing hearts and other things on lattes. I gained more responsibilities during the internship – I started with washing up and by the end I was working with the coffee machine. I even got very good feedback from our clients! Now customers are asking for my special coffees.

 

* How did the IBD Partnership help you? How would you describe their services and attitude?

The IBD Partnership helped with accommodation, when I came. The cultural and work preparation was motivational and inspiration – it helped to understand the experience.

In my city, we would have never thought that we could get a job in UK!

 

* Would you recommend these programmes to others? And also IBD?

Yes, I would definitely recommend. They gave me funds to spend in order to learn language, improve professional skills and have fun!

My bosses believe in me and I get more respect. It is about loving one’s job and searching for ways to improve it!

 

I would like to thank The IBD Partnership and EU for this project, because without it I wold not know where I would be now!