Student testimonial
Student Lieke – MSc International Development
After finishing her bachelors in International Development Studies at Wageningen University and Research, Lieke decided to pursue the master International Development Studies as well.
Studying international development to me means navigating challenges, expanding horizons and being committed to meaningful change.
“In my bachelors, I was introduced to a wide variety of topics related to development. One area that particularly interests me is the connection between conservation and inequality. Therefore, I chose to write my bachelor thesis in South Africa. It focused on environmental racism within conservation and examined the challenges it poses for environmental activism among black South Africans. Social dynamics play a significant role in conservation but have historically been overlooked. Consequently, I wanted to specialise further in the interplay between inequality, conservation, indignity and racism. The specialisation in Sociology of Development has provided me with the opportunity to delve deeper into these themes.”
Creating challenges
“Regarding challenges, the program itself isn’t particularly demanding for me. Fortunately, the program offers plenty of flexibility to tailor the program to individual needs and interests. For instance, I recall a specific period when I couldn’t decide between certain electives. With careful planning, I ultimately decided to take all three. It was a hectic experience but one that I'm grateful for, and I appreciate the support of my study advisor in accommodating my decision to take on additional credits.
Additionally, I chose to learn French alongside my studies. Over the past year, I've attended lessons every Thursday and partnered with a French language buddy. Learning a new language poses its challenges as I definitely don’t have a ‘talenknobbel’ (talent for languages), but it's precisely what I need to further challenge myself academically. I am pleased that Wageningen University and Research offers such opportunities."
Volunteering experience
“Besides studying, I am actively involved as a volunteer at Buddy to Buddy. At this moment, I have a buddy partnership with three refugees, who all have different backgrounds and reasons to be here. We undertake a lot of activities together, such as cooking traditional dishes (Dolma or Riz be Bazalyah), painting, walking in the beautiful nature that surrounds Wageningen or practicing their Dutch language skills. Having gained insights on migration studies during my studies, I felt a sense of detachment from the reality unfolding around me. That is why I decided to participate in this volunteering program and to actively engage with people that seek shelter in the Netherlands. So far, it has been a valuable and rewarding experience, and I am grateful for this opportunity. Combining my volunteering work with an academic master also allows me to bridge theory and practice, while at the same time expanding my own horizon.”