Students explore the power of European alliances like ENGAGE.EU
Imagine this: a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of European higher education, while also developing personally and professionally. Three students from Tilburg University took on the challenge, worked alongside ENGAGE.EU's strategic team on the strategy for 2035, and share their experiences and insights. This strategy outlines where the alliance aims to be in ten years, what choices are needed now, and the path that will be followed to achieve this.
Sem Bakker: “Strategic plans of universities’’
Alongside her studies, Sem has been working as a student assistant for eighteen months and joined the ENGAGE.EU strategy team in the summer of 2024. She describes her collaboration with ENGAGE.EU as very positive. “My task was to analyze and compare the strategic plans of the participating universities.” In the course of her study, she noticed how similar the ambitions of the various universities are. “Many universities aim for the same goals: providing the best education, conducting socially responsible research, and giving back to society. However, each university also has its own unique focus. Some emphasize digital or hybrid education, while others are more oriented towards cultural aspects,” Sem explains.
Sem reflects positively on her contribution to the strategy and sees clear connections to her future. “In September, I will start a Master’s program in Organization Studies, which focuses on both the economic management and social aspects of organizations. I now have a better understanding of how complex collaborations are established and how crucial strategic planning is.”
Weronika Idler: "European strategies and trends and developments in higher education’’
Third-year Global Law student Weronika Idler focused her research on two main themes: European strategies and trends and developments in higher education. “The study revealed how we currently stand, the foundations underlying this, and how the themes within European universities have evolved over time. By analyzing the second theme of trends and developments in higher education, I gained insight into key topics such as digitalization, sustainability, micro-credentials, and social rights,” says Weronika. “I developed a solid understanding of the legal framework governing European universities, as well as the complex changes and evolving demands within higher education.’’
"While we pursue similar overarching goals, the unique contribution of each university are precisely what makes the collaboration so strong. The study showed how essential it is to work together on a shared mission and vision while respecting the individuality of each partner."
"It was very valuable to see how education can be prepared for future crises," Weronika adds. "It’s not just about knowledge, but also about skills like taking responsibility and setting priorities."
In the course of her study, she developed not only academic expertise but also practical skills. “I learned how to better manage my time and set boundaries, and the importance of communication. This experience has truly prepared me for the future.”
With the support of her fellow students and professors, Weronika reflects on an intensive but rewarding period. “It was great to be part of a project that not only contributed to my personal growth but also to the future of European education.”
Nynke Wagtmans: “Insights into European University Alliances”
Nynke Wagtmans is in the final semester of her Master’s degree in Law and started as a student-assistant at ENGAGE.EU in October 2024. Within the project, Nynke focused on benchmarking other European university alliances. “I investigated what universities offer, such as joint Bachelor’s and Master’s programs and the courses they comprise, mobility opportunities, and what partner institutions they have. Additionally, I looked at notable examples and the degree of overlap between alliances. In total, I analyzed 18 partnerships, randomly selected from the 65 European university alliances.”
Nynke encountered a few challenges in the course of her study. “The websites of the alliances weren’t always clear, which made it difficult to find information. Eventually, I learned that if something isn’t easily accessible, you might just have to accept that it doesn’t exist.” Her analysis revealed that many alliances offer similar programs, such as Summer and Winter Schools. “The results weren’t particularly surprising; there’s a lot of overlap. However, I noticed that some alliances focus more on future-oriented courses, like those aimed at developing skills needed for the job market. I found that really interesting.”
"The social aspect of international collaboration really appeals to me. You don’t just learn about education but also about the cultures and students at other places."
Nynke reflects positively on her contribution to ENGAGE.EU. “The team discussions were incredibly valuable. You learn to understand different perspectives, which is helpful when you feel stuck.” Her advice to other students: “It’s both fun and educational to see how universities operate and what is possible. Explore the opportunities and benefit from the extra experiences available alongside your studies.”