It was exciting to experience what project management looks like in practice

"Living and studying in Sitka, Alaska while working on a real sustainability project was something I never imagined I would do during my studies. I am originally from Poland and currently study Global Project and Change Management at Windesheim. As part of the programme, all third-year students follow the Managing Projects for Sustainable Development (MPSD) minor for one semester. Through this experience, I got the chance to combine project work, research, travel and adventure all in one experience. 

Instead of only learning from textbooks, we worked directly with a real organisation: the Sitka Sound Science Center (SSSC). This non-profit organisation focuses on protecting and researching the unique marine and terrestrial ecosystems of coastal Alaska through education and scientific research."

Working on a real project 

"Our challenge was to help the organisation think about its future growth and financial sustainability by designing ideas for a new suite of Adult Field Courses. At the end of the project, we delivered an Advisory Guide that the organisation could use to further develop these programmes. 

My role in the team was flexible, which made the project feel very realistic. I mostly organised meetings, prepared agendas and stayed in contact with the client. It was exciting to work with professionals and experience what project management actually looks like in practice."

More than just studying 

"What made this experience so special was that life outside the classroom was just as important as the project itself. A typical week included meetings with the client, working sessions with my team, self-study in the library or at the SSSC office, and attending staff meetings at the organisation. 

But outside of work, there was also so much to experience. I spent my free time hiking, exploring nature, attending local events and learning more about Alaska’s incredible ecosystems. Sitka is surrounded by forests, mountains and the ocean, so it often felt like living inside a nature documentary. 

Of course, not everything was easy. Being far away from my loved ones with a 10-hour time difference was challenging sometimes, and Sitka’s rainy weather definitely took some getting used to. But those challenges also helped me grow a lot personally."

What I learned 

"One of the biggest things I learned is that real sustainability projects are rarely simple. Plans change, things take longer than expected and you constantly have to adapt and think creatively. That made the experience feel real and meaningful. 

I also developed practical skills in research, teamwork, communication and facilitation, especially during co-creation sessions with stakeholders. 

Throughout the entire project, I felt very supported by the lecturers and project coaches at Windesheim. Whenever we had questions or needed help, they were always available and easy to reach."

Why I would recommend the minor MPSD 

"I would absolutely recommend this programme to students who want more than just a typical study experience. MPSD gives you the opportunity to work with real clients, experience different cultures, travel to unique places and challenge yourself in ways you normally wouldn’t. 

If you are someone who likes adventure, wants to make an impact and is not afraid to step outside your comfort zone, this programme is definitely worth it. 

My advice? Don’t overthink it. Just go for it!"