New Erasmus Mundus Industrial Ecology started
The first group of international students to follow the MIND programme in Leiden have started their study. This academic year saw the start of this international, multidisciplinary Master's in Industrial Ecology, a joint venture between a number of universities, including Leiden and Delft. Two students talk about their experiences.
From forestry to MIND
Simon Love from New Zealand studied Chemistry and then worked for a number of years in forestry, where he became interested in such themes as sustainability and the environment. After four years, Simon decided to resume his studies: the MIND programme was a perfect match for his interests and so far he is definitely enjoying this new master's.
Multidisciplinary programme
Simon Love
Another student of the MIND programme is Cansu Birgen from Turkey: 'I'm really enjoying it, but it's quite a challenge. As well as the cultural differences, I also have to get used to anew system of teaching. But I'm determined to develop my skills in as many different directions as possible.' Cansu chose the MIND programme for its innovative approach and the wide range of disciplines embraced by the programme. 'And, even more,' she adds, 'I am sure the opportunity to study in different countries will broaden my horizons.' For Simon, too, this is a major advantage: 'This is the opportunity to get to know several different universities over a period of two years.'
Concern for the environment
Cansu is worried about environmental issues: 'My background in chemical technology is not enough to tackle these problems, so I wanted to learn more about them through the MIND programme. I was lucky enough to be awarded a grant, so I grasped the opportunity with both hands.'
Sustainable energy
Cansu Birgen
Simon has a specific aim in mind that he would like to achieve through the MIND programme: 'I hope the programme will help me to discover what I really want to do. It is a highly multidisciplinary master's that addresses different problems. My specific interest is in sustainable energy, but where I will eventually end up is by no means certain.' Cansu's image of the future is clearer: 'I want to use my technical background to develop sustainable energy systems and set up sustainable production processes.'
About MIND
Every year ten EU students and fifteen non-EU students take part in the MIND programme. It is the world's first Master's in Industrial Ecology. As well as Leiden and Delft, the universities of Graz and Gothenberg are also participants in MIND. In the third and fourth semesters students can opt for a study period at an international university, including such possibilities as Japan and Thailand.
More information about MIND
(7 October 2011)