The traineeship and exchange enable me to put my knowledge and skills into practice while also creating experiences outside of class.
Suzanne Abrahamse
Student Research Master Sociology of Culture, Media and the Arts
I am a graduate from University College Utrecht where I majored in urban sociology and anthropology. This is a challenging and interdisciplinary bachelor’s program with an international focus. For my Master’s, I was looking for something similar: a program which offers more than ‘just’ the courses. This is what I found in the Research Master ‘Sociology of Culture, Media and the Arts’.
Knowledge, skills and experiences outside of class
Erasmus University Rotterdam is the ideal environment for me to continue my education. So far, the program has introduced me to many talented people, offered me a stimulating work environment, and has given me high-quality education. It is everything that I expected and more.
I have always tried to get the most out of my studies and this research master allows me to do this. There are many extra dimensions to the master, allowing students to further explore their interests. For example, the traineeship and exchange enable me to put my knowledge and skills into practice while also creating experiences outside of class.
Favourite course
One of my favorite courses so far, has been ‘Consumer Culture’. In class we both discuss established social theories as well as newer papers and relate them to current day events. Everything that is discussed in class, you start detecting in your own life. I can’t watch an advertisement or TV show anymore without having an existential crisis about society. In addition, the small-scale and interactive class format creates optimal opportunity for learning and allows you to really get to know your peers. They become not only your study buddies, but also your friends.
Talking about the pressure
The program can be a bit intense at times. I have doubted whether I am doing ‘enough’, as all students are extremely motivated, performing well in class while also participating in extra projects. However, talking about this pressure with the other students made me realize that everyone is experiencing these feelings. Having open and honest conversations and learning to not compare myself, has helped release some of this pressure.
Enthusiasm for research
Before I started this Master’s, doing a PhD or having a future career in research had never crossed my mind. However, the program has boosted my confidence and sparked my enthusiasm for research. Over the past few months, I have realized that a career in academia might not be as unlikely for me as I once thought.
In addition, I have always wanted to become a professor, spreading my knowledge and having discussions with students. I also highly value active engaged citizenship and would like to make a positive impact on society. However, there are so many options and I have honestly not given my future too much thought.
For now, I am focused on making the most out of my degree and enjoying every step of the way. This master is giving me the skills and confidence that I am sure I will be prepared for the future and the complexities of life.