A Chat With: An Alumnus - Joia de Jong

An Alumnus
Joia de Jong - MSc Sociology of Culture, Media and the Arts
Erasmus, Rotterdam

Master
I’m doing an Research Master in Sociology of Culture, Media and the Arts in Rotterdam.

Experience so far
Personally, I am in doubt whether this master is the perfect master for me. The University College environment is a really special environment. So especially in the first months, I had rehab symptoms. I missed the personal interactions between students and teachers, constructive feedback from one person to another and simply the genuine interest in each other. It wasn’t only the environment that I needed to adjust to, but also working incredibly long hours with insane deadlines for research that doesn’t seem relevant. In the beginning, I felt there was too much emphasis upon the arts side of research. I’ve decided for myself that in December I will make a choice whether to continue or not, because then I’ve also followed other courses. 

Application Process
The application process was quite similar to that of EUC. I had to have an average grade of at least 75, besides that I had to write a motivation letter, send my CV and add two recommendations letters. I finalized my application in May.

Why this Master
When you want to pursue a PhD, a research master is highly recommended. It basically teaches you all the skills you should have in such a position. I’ve chosen the research master in sociology of culture, media and the arts in specific, because, in contrast to other masters, it offered me freedom with regard to courses. Similarly to EUC, there are some mandatory courses, but also many electives. So you can really create your own profile. This is also what I saw on the alumni page: people were active in really different fields.

Besides that the research master offers exchange possibilities in the second year and an internship with a professor in the first year. I really loved these features, because I could get more practical knowledge about doing research and get the chance to go abroad.

Advice for EUC Students
My advice is more for after picking your masters. For most people I know, it has been quite an adjustment period from EUC to a master. In the first months, it can be very difficult, but try to let go and it will become much better. And who knows, you can change the programme from the inside. :)