Political Science: Global Environmental Governance
Student testimonial: Vadim
Why did you chose Political Science?
Applying for the masters programme in Political Science at VU University Amsterdam I, mainly, expected development of academic skills.
Why the VU University Amsterdam?
VU University Amsterdam provides students with a very broad programme in Political Science. At the same time students can join one of the four focused tracks within Political Science. (I participate in the Global Environmental Governance track.) I really liked the idea that the program develops both general skills in Political Science as well as expertise in specific field.
Why Amsterdam/The Netherlands?
Studying and living in the Netherlands is a life experience. The country is unique in many perspectives. Holland is one of the most liberal countries in the world. The country is one of the earliest industrializes in Europe. It presents an ideal welfare state. All of these variables are very important when it comes to choose where to study.
About the study programme?
The programme in Political Science is the meeting point of professional world known academics and motivated students from different countries of the world. The interaction between these two groups gives fascinating results.
About the organization?
Faculty, staff, and students, perfectly, coexist in equilibrium. I felt that the university has a comprehensive organizational structure that helps to run the university just fine.
About the (contact with) professors?
I like the almost informal scheme of interaction with professors. It allows to solve academic and organizational questions very efficiently.
About the (contact with) fellow students?
Many of the class assignments are based on group projects. These projects are important mechanisms of student integration. Apart from integration in class, there are also several activities organized by the faculty that help students to become one body.
What surprised you about your stay inthe Netherlands?
Holland is an amazingly contrast country. Exploring the country, I found out many amazing sites that surprised me.
How do past experiences relay to this study?
My previous education was a broad political science with focus on regional politics. I have always to broaden my views and develop alternative expertise in applied area of research. The studies at VU University Amsterdam allowed me to develop a strong expertise in Global Environmental Governance.
What do you do besides studying at the VU University Amsterdam?
The university has wonderful sports facilities. I took thai boxing course.
Do you have a job that is related to your study? How do you put the things you’ve learned in practice?
Currently, I am applying for positions at major transnational companies and leading NGOs.
What would you like to do after graduation?
I would like to start professional career in the field of global environmental governance. I believe my master degree in Political Science will be of great value for the future career.
What would you say to prospective students about this master’s?
VU University Amsterdam is one of the leading Dutch universities. There are plenty of opportunities, you can use them all!
Vadim Biryukov, Master’s Student in Political Science, 2009- 2010
