Meaningful Leadership for a Better World, Utrecht Summer School, 15th - 19th July 2024

I’m incredibly grateful to UCL Study Abroad and Student Support and Wellbeing Services for giving me the opportunity to participate in the “Meaningful Leadership for a Better World” programme at Utrecht Summer School in the Netherlands, an experience that came early in my academic journey, right after my first year as an undergraduate.  

UCL Study Abroad supports students from underrepresented backgrounds to engage in short-term mobility by creating meaningful opportunities for academic and personal growth. I feel very fortunate to have been selected. Although I was originally accepted into a study abroad programme in a country I couldn’t travel to due to visa restrictions, the Study Abroad team made an exceptional effort to find an alternative for me. Thanks to their support, I was able to attend this incredible course in the Netherlands, and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience. 

What was the best on-campus experience? 

It’s hard to pick just one experience, as the programme was filled with so many memorable moments. One of the best experiences was working on a podcast project about leadership. Interviewing Utrecht residents about the times they felt like leaders was both fun and eye-opening. Walking up to strangers with a mic was nerve-wracking at first, but after a few tries, it became much easier. I was pleasantly surprised by how open and willing people were to share their stories. It was great to create a short podcast, and it also gave me a deeper appreciation for the many ways leadership can be found in everyday life. 

What was the best off-campus experience? 

My favourite off-campus experience was canoeing through the canals of Utrecht for the first time. It was a really fun way to explore the city. I also really enjoyed the scavenger hunt around Utrecht. It was a great mix of adventure and learning, as we discovered historic buildings, lively markets, and iconic landmarks like the Dom Tower. 

Biggest lesson learnt? 

The biggest lesson I learned is that leadership isn’t about being the loudest or most outgoing person in the room. It’s about being authentic, compassionate, and willing to listen and show vulnerability. Throughout the programme, I saw how trust, empathy, and 

open communication are at the heart of meaningful leadership. Exercises like open dialogue and sharing personal experiences showed me that everyone brings unique strengths. Leadership is about creating space for others, building real connections, and working together towards shared goals. 

Biggest cultural shock? 

The biggest cultural shock for me was how open and direct communication is in the Netherlands. During the programme, we often discussed personal and sensitive topics very openly. At first, this felt unfamiliar, but it has helped me express myself more clearly and feel more connected to others. I was also struck by how central cycling is to daily life. Bikes are everywhere! Since I didn’t know how to ride, it motivated me to sign up for a cycling course when I got back to London. 

Any words of advice for future short-term mobility students? 

Make a list of places you want to visit and plan your time well so that you can explore the surroundings alongside your course. Make sure to try new food and make connections. The connections you make and the lessons you learn will stay with you long after the programme ends, so make the most of every moment.