Megan Nation is currently pursuing a master's degree in Sustainable Entrepreneurship at Campus Fryslân. Hailing from the United States, Megan is deeply committed to implementing sustainable solutions and assisting organizations in their transition to sustainability. With a profound interest in the circular economy and doughnut economics, she actively seeks opportunities to translate these concepts into practical applications in everyday life. In this blog post, we delve deeper into her experiences with the programme, life in Leeuwarden, and on Campus, providing a better understanding of her journey!

Hi Megan! Thanks for agreeing to this chat today. Could you please introduce yourself?

Originally, I'm from the Seattle area in Washington State, way out on the West Coast for those not familiar with U.S. geography. Before diving into my Master's degree, I spent close to a decade working in project management within the healthcare sector. My undergraduate studies were primarily in International Relations, with additional experience in the healthcare field. It's quite a mix, but as a young professional, I've always been keen to explore diverse opportunities as they arise.

Sustainability has always been a personal interest of mine. When I decided to further my studies in this field, I discovered there are few programmes worldwide focused on sustainable entrepreneurship. What really caught my attention about this particular programme was its emphasis on authenticity. It's all about driving fundamental change, which I find incredibly compelling. This programme starts from the premise that we need to approach things differently.

❝This programme starts from the premise that we need to approach things differently.❞

Why Leeuwarden?

The fact that the Master's was based in Leeuwarden was an added benefit! The city is just charming – I'd even call it quaint. With its picturesque canals and small-town vibe, it's a delightful place to be. Plus, it's incredibly easy to navigate, and there's a thriving, growing student community. It's been quite the adjustment from my hometown in the U.S.!

What topics pique your interest?

When it comes to sustainability, there's a vast array of avenues to explore. If I had to narrow it down, I'd say one area I've found particularly fascinating is sustainable business model innovations. The strategy course delves into practical methods of applying theoretical concepts, facilitating change within organizations at a high level. Additionally, I'm passionate about discussing small to medium enterprises (SMEs), a sector that's gaining increasing attention in terms of sustainable business practices. However, compared to larger enterprises, they often are behind in implementing change. Another aspect that intrigues me is the transition from theory to practice – how do we turn these concepts into actionable strategies? It's a challenge, especially in an academic setting where ideas tend to remain theoretical.

❝How do we turn these concepts into actionable strategies? ❞

Does the Master's programme provide enough flexibility to delve into these areas?

Absolutely. When I joined the programme, I had a very specific idea in mind: to explore sustainable practices within the adult intimate items. It all stemmed from observing the objects around us – most of which are either plastic or destined for landfills. This industry has numerous challenges, from the linear production process to sterilization issues, lack of infrastructure, and societal prejudices.

What unique aspects do you think prospective students might find intriguing about the program that aren't immediately obvious?

Two things come to mind:

1. Despite the high-level and concise course descriptions, they actually cover a wealth of content.

2. The interconnectedness of the courses. While they may seem like separate entities on paper, they are deeply intertwined, allowing for a comprehensive learning experience in a shorter timeframe.

How's your classroom experience been?

I have to say, we've got an incredible cohort! We're a tight-knit group, very international – about two-thirds of us come from abroad. We organize various social gatherings, celebrate birthdays, and we know what’s happening in each other’s world. We really got lucky in that regard!

Last but not least, what's your take on Campus Fryslân?

I can see why some might feel it's a bit of a bubble, somewhat detached from the broader university, but that comes with its perks. There's definitely a different vibe here. Plus, the campus itself is stunning and equipped with all the necessary facilities. One day I recall walking through the halls near the cafeteria and stumbling upon a faculty contest where professors pitched their innovative teaching ideas – a perfect example of utilizing the space! Overall, I appreciate the efforts made by the campus to foster a sense of community.

PS There’s definitely a modern take on what a library is (manage your expectations on that one!), but there’s plenty of study spots all over the Campus.