This article has been submitted by Sofia Siqueira, who has lived in The Hague for the last year. Sofia was here to follow a Masters in Public Administration at Leiden University and also was part of The Social Hub (TSH) Talent Foundation Changemaker’s Programme. She is currently looking for a work opportunities – contact details below.
It’s incredible how just a few months can reshape who we are.
My story with The Hague began when I was still a bachelor’s student in Brazil, admiring international organizations from afar and wondering if one day those global discussions would feel closer to me. I had always dreamed of studying abroad and pursuing a master’s degree after graduation. In my final year, I started researching programs and chose Public Administration because of my longstanding interest in the administrative aspects of International Relations, particularly how projects and policies are managed.
Scholarships and Surprises
In 2023, I applied to four master’s programs. However, the high prices for non-EU students and the exchange rate currencies made studying abroad impossible for me. So, I applied for scholarships. After landing on various waiting lists, I began to lose hope and even started making new plans.
That’s when, in April, I received an email: I had been awarded the LExS Scholarship from Leiden University. It is offered to students with outstanding academic records and clear motivation for their chosen program. With that, my dream began to take shape.
Enter The Social Hub: A New Opportunity
Just as I was celebrating this achievement, things took an even better turn. I received another email from the University, this time introducing me to The Social Hub’s TSH Talent Foundation and the Changemaker’s Program. This initiative supports academic excellence, leadership, and professional development through mentorship, networking, innovation, and collaboration. Moreover, it also provides housing for the scholars!
Another round of motivation letters, applications, and waiting began. Long story short: after thinking everything was lost at the start of 2024, by July I had two scholarships and a brand-new chapter of life waiting for me. (This is also how I met Renée, who is my mentor in the program. I’m incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to write this today!)
Living the Dream
This year marks a journey of independence and the realization of many dreams. As a child, I always told my parents that I wanted to see the world, meet new people, and explore different cultures. Every day here feels like a dream come true.
I feel incredibly lucky to live in a city like The Hague, surrounded by the international organizations I once studied. It’s amazing to witness all of this with my own eyes and to share this experience with classmates from around the world.
Growth, Challenges, and Accomplishments
When I look back at the person who arrived here 10 months ago, I see so many changes. I’ve grown more confident academically, become comfortable talking to “strangers,” and created memories with people who have become an essential part of my life.
The saying “time flies when you’re having fun” couldn’t be truer. In such a short time, I completed multiple courses, submitted a thesis (where I explored how issue salience and government legitimacy influence local politicians’ motivation to prioritize environmental issues), and gained insight into their decision-making processes. I’ve traveled to many new places, survived the Dutch winter, and met incredible people along the way. Above all, I feel more like myself than ever before.
Looking Ahead: Hope and Uncertainty
Nonetheless, I find myself in a moment of uncertainty right now. I’m applying to many internships, traineeships, and junior positions, mainly in the areas of project management, administration, and roles connected to environmental issues and education, which align with both my experience and interests. Still, breaking into the job market has been challenging, and getting an interview feels like a victory.
Even so, I remain hopeful. I truly believe that the right opportunity will come at the right time. For now, I’m committed to continuing this journey in the Netherlands, embracing whatever the next chapter holds and enjoying every moment of what was a dream some months before. The future may be uncertain, but it is full of possibility.
Let’s Connect!
I’m currently looking for job opportunities or internships in the Netherlands in areas related to project management, administration, sustainability, and/or education. If you know of any openings or want to connect, please reach out viawww.linkedin.com/in/sofia-siqueira-254221102
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