The challenges posed to the students back in early September are nearly identical to those currently faced by commission representatives, enabling a uniquely challenging task for the students to apply their knowledge from their previous coursework in the form of a policy proposal paper and subsequent in-person pitch. Policies tackling the challenges of the energy transition holistically ranged from carbon dividends to labels of reparability of goods. They were pitched to the members of DG ECFIN, unit Economics of Transition and Resilience and guests from different DGs and units, specialized in aviation, shipping and energy. 

The event was an astounding success. Students were vocal in their appreciation for the opportunity to present in the same environment as that of European Commission policymakers. Although it was for many their first economics class, their policy proposals did not reflect any lack of experience or newness. For others, this experience acted as perhaps the initial step in their careers in policy, politics, economics and more. If the potential and creativity witnessed in Brussels are any indication of the future of the European Union, we are well on our path to a sustainable future.