Why I chose this study programme

I’ve always wanted to do something for others, and I was fascinated by all things related to sustainability. I also knew for sure that I wanted to travel, because other cultures have always intrigued me. Still, I had a hard time choosing the right study programme. That’s why I did a career coaching track, one of the outcomes was International Development Management: the perfect mix of working with nature and people.

At the open day, I immediately had a good feeling about the university. It’s small-scale, with personal education and plenty of freedom to shape your own direction. That combination really appealed to me.

Study experiences and highlights

I started my studies during a unique time: the first year of the pandemic. I had just earned my secondary school diploma during the lockdown and spontaneously moved to Velp in the first month of the programme.

In that first year, my fellow students and I won an award that allowed us to travel to Romania for a week to visit projects and meet the people behind them. It was an impressive and eye-opening experience. Another highlight was my internship in Barcelona, where I conducted research on Carbon Credits for small-scale rice farmers in Cambodia. It was my first real exposure to a completely different culture.

The most remarkable experience was my graduation internship with Chocolatemakers. I spent two months in Peru conducting research into the socio-economic and environmental situation of cocoa farmers. I developed a tool based on three methodologies and tested it on site. I stayed with a local family and practised my Spanish daily. In the field, I spoke directly with the farmers I was doing this work for. It was amazing, learning, collaborating, creating impact.

The lecturers played a big part in all of this. They’re always open to ideas, flexible, and they help you shape the programme in a way that suits you.

What I’ve learned and what I do now

This programme has given me so much. Besides academic knowledge about sustainable development and international cooperation, I’ve learned to pay close attention to context and come up with creative solutions.

I’ve become confident in organising projects and I’m always eager to learn new things. The programme made me more analytically skilled, which now helps me process data and measure impact effectively.

After graduation, I was able to stay on at Chocolatemakers as an impact manager. I now work on all things sustainability and help set up land rehabilitation projects in cocoa regions.

My advice for future students

If you’re considering studying International Development Management: go for it! The programme is taught in English, but don’t worry if you’re not fluent yet. You’ll be speaking and writing in English every day, before you know it, you’ll be fluent.

There’s a lot of flexibility within the programme if you take initiative and show what you can do. The lecturers are happy to support you. If you’re committed and work hard, many doors will open for you.

There are also plenty of initiatives to join, such as the course committee, the participation council or student associations. It’s a great way to meet people and gain new skills.

The programme is very diverse and offers a wide range of directions to explore. Make the most of that. Follow what feels right and gives you energy, the rest will come naturally.