Testimonials
What I liked the most about the Master’s specialisation Conflicts, Territories and Identities is the focus on fieldwork and qualitative research.
- Previous education
- Geografie, Planologie en Milieu (Radboud University)
- Programme
- Conflict, Territories and Identities
- Study start date
'What I liked the most about the Master’s specialisation Conflicts, Territories and Identities is the focus on fieldwork and qualitative research. In an international field, like social Geography and conflict studies in particular, is it sometimes difficult to make concepts concrete. That’s why the research internship and the study trip had added value.
There was a nice ambience in the International student group. We were with 35 students at most of the courses, which means that we could build a close bond with the teachers. The teachers were always available to share their experiences and to teach us something. During the study trip, all the students and teachers were really close to each other. I still have contact with friends, who I met in this Master’s specialisation.
For my research Internship, I went to Gambia for three months. I did my internship and research at a local organization in Gambia. These three months were really instructive and nice. I got a lot of space to do my research and I could write about my interests. I wrote my thesis about the effects of Western tourism in Gambia.
The Master’s programme Human Geography is a broad basis for diverse roles at governments, social organizations and firms. After my research internship, I did an internship at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Thanks to my general development and analytical skills, what I learned in my Master’s programme, I could really easy pick up the role of a government official.'
The teachers are very passionate about their field of expertise, which makes us students enthusiast as well!
- Previous education
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, Tilburg University
- Programme
- Conflict, Territories and Identities
- Study start date
'What I like most about this program is the relevance of what we learn. By studying this field, you contribute to knowledge in humanitarian aid. Another aspect that I consider to be really valuable is that you can choose elective courses. This is a great opportunity to dive deeper into something outside your regular courses, which is useful for your thesis or future career. These courses can be challenging since you might come from a different academic background (if you follow for example a Human Rights course).
I really enjoy the atmosphere in class. There is always a fellow student to help you out with your questions or problems. We often go for drinks after class and have a lot of fun, which is important as well!
Our professors teach really well, are eager to answer all your questions and stimulate us to have interesting discussions. They are also very passionate about their field of expertise, which makes us, students, enthusiast as well!
A one-year Master's programme feels too short. It is a lot to fit into one year. Therefore, I chose to extend my studies half a year. This makes it easier to find an internship and reduces the pressure of the Master's thesis a little.
I am starting an internship in May, shortly put about the policy of the Dutch Protestant Church in Israel-Palestina. The topic of my thesis is different, I'm writing about the child protection system of Dutch faith-based organisations.
Conflict resolution is complex and also quite risk-prone. Therefore it is important to understand the conflict dynamics and the structure in place, as well as the harmful effects of aid and its political dimension. Regarding my future plans, I aspire to work as a child protection officer or lobbyist in a NGO.'
I think it is profoundly important in our globalised world that there are people with knowledge of diplomacy and international relations.
- Previous education
- BSc Geography, Planning and Environment (Radboud University)
- Programme
- Conflict, Territories and Identities
- Study start date
- Study end date
What do you like about the specialisation and how has it challenged you?
The Conflicts, Territories and Identities specialisation was for me an obvious choice, because I have always had an interest in conflicts, wars and peacebuilding. During my Bachelor's Geography, Planning and Environment, I also chose to do the CICAM minor. This helped me get a better understanding in this field of the programme. I particularly enjoy the large use of real-life examples throughout the programme, whilst the bigger use of group assignments have challenged me in relation to my years in the Bachelor's Geography, Planning and Environment.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class?
I appreciate the fact that the classes during working groups and lectures tend to be smaller. In this way, you always get to know your fellow students. Another positive note to this is the improved and more personal relation between student and teacher.
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s?
Overall, I did not encounter many obstacles during my programme so far. At times the many group assignments can be somewhat challenging.
Are you currently doing an internship? Or what is your thesis about?
No, I am planning to travel next year and writing my thesis afterwards. Therefore, I am now doing some extracurricular activities and am I taking some courses at the University of Amsterdam.
Why do you think it is important that there are people with this degree and what are your plans once you have received your Master's degree?
I think it is profoundly important in our globalised world that there are people with knowledge of diplomacy and international relations. In a world filled with conflict, having knowledge of peacebuilding is important as well.
My plans after receiving my Master’s degree are to work in an international environment regarding solving conflict-based issues in institutions, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.