Alumni Stories

What happens when life's unexpected turns lead to discovering your true calling? Gaël Arellano never planned to become a journalist. Growing up between Luxembourg and Chile with a grandfather who ran a radio station, journalism was in his blood—but not in his plans. 

After leaving his political science studies in Brussels to care for his mother, Arellano's path took a decisive turn at the University of Luxembourg. While writing press releases for his professional rally driver brother, he caught the attention of newspaper Le Quotidien, launching what would become a 12-year career in journalism. Now at RTL Luxembourg, Arellano offers a rare glimpse into the realities of modern news reporting—from the peaceful-looking newsroom that's actually "on fire" to the unpredictable workdays that can stretch from planned leisure to midnight deadlines in an instant.

Whether you're contemplating your educational path, curious about media careers, or simply interested in how global news reaches your screen, this conversation offers valuable insights from someone who lives at the intersection of words and action every day. Subscribe to Alumni Stories for more inspiring journeys from University of Luxembourg graduates who've found their unique paths in the professional world.

Read Gael's article on Gaza on RTL Today

Interested in signing up for the Bachelor en Cultures Européennes?

Visit the website : bce.uni.lu

If you have any specific questions regarding this Bachelor, please contact: [email protected]

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When Ricarda Leidinger attended a student fair in Saarbrücken a decade ago, she had no idea that chance encounter would shape her entire future. Uncertain about her path after high school, this German student from Saarland found herself drawn to the University of Luxembourg's
Bachelor en Cultures Européennes, which perfectly combined her love of languages and humanities.

Ricarda takes us through her remarkable journey from hesitant first-year student to confident university administrator. Her story beautifully illustrates how stepping outside comfort zones—particularly with languages—can transform both personal and professional development. Initially doubting her French abilities, Ricarda chose the German track of her program, only to gradually discover that perfect language skills aren't necessary for meaningful communication and growth.

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Ricarda's recommandations 

What she studied : Bachelor en Cultures Européennes – Germanistik - FHSE I Uni.lu

If you want to get in touch with Ricarda, please feel free to contact her here 

Can you find Ricarda on this video of the 2015 Open Day. 

Interested in signing up for the Bachelor en Cultures Européennes?

Visit the website : bce.uni.lu

If you have any specific questions regarding this Bachelor, please contact: [email protected]

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