_{Put. Yourself. Out there.
Take it from Edoardo Ferrari, an alumnus of the Global Responsibility and Leadership programme who is currently pursuing a double degree in Management across continents. This next step has allowed him to deepen his interest in politics and economics and engage with today’s pressing challenges. Read on to discover, in just three questions, the journey that shaped him and his advice for all students who feel indecisive.}

To begin, could you tell us a little about yourself: where you are from, what you studied, which major you followed, and the topics or themes that best define your academic interests?

Hi! My name is Edoardo, and I’m originally from Milan, Italy, where I spent my childhood and high school years. After finishing my final exams, I felt the urge to explore what was out there beyond my comfort zone - so I began my adventure abroad.

I studied Global Responsibility & Leadership, majoring in Politics, Economics, and Philosophy (previously called the Governance major). Instead of sticking to one minor, I chose to explore different courses at the Faculty of Economics and Business in Groningen. This gave me the chance to build a stronger background in economics, especially in political and developmental topics.

I’ve always been fascinated by the way politics and economics are intertwined, particularly in emerging markets. Over time, this interest has grown alongside my concern for climate change and the importance of strong policies to address it. That’s why GRL felt like the perfect program for me - it allowed me to connect my passion for politics, economics, and sustainability in a very meaningful way.

Looking back, what experiences during your Bachelor’s studies helped shape your path?

It’s really hard to choose just one experience, because I truly feel I learned something valuable from every stage of my time at Campus Fryslân - and I’m still learning! From the everyday classes with classmates from all around the world, I gained perspectives I could never have imagined on my own. Living alone for the first time, building lifelong friendships, and being exposed to so many new cultures also shaped me in profound ways.

If I had to highlight one particularly transformative experience, it would be my time in Hong Kong during my minor. There, I took courses on Asian politics and business while living in an environment so different from anything I had known before. That experience challenged me, broadened my outlook, and helped me grow both academically and personally in the best way possible.

❝From the everyday classes with classmates from all around the world, I gained perspectives I could never have imagined on my own.❞

Could you tell us about your Master’s studies and what you chose to specialise in?

After my bachelor’s, I decided to pursue a double master’s program at NOVA SBE in partnership with CEMS. The program is an International Master’s in Management, which appealed to me for its global perspective and strong focus on leadership and professional development.

My home school is NOVA SBE in Lisbon, where I’ve been part of an international and diverse academic environment. Through CEMS - ranked as the 4th best Master’s in Management worldwide by the Financial Times - I’ve had the chance to strengthen both my academic foundation and my personal growth as a future leader.

As of October 2025, I’m spending my exchange semester at FGV in São Paulo, Brazil. This experience allows me to engage with a new academic and cultural context, while also deepening my understanding of management in emerging markets.

I’m deeply grateful to Campus Fryslân for helping me become the person I am today - their interdisciplinary approach and inspiring community played a key role in shaping my academic and personal journey.

Finally, if you were to give one piece of advice to a prospective student who is considering studying Global Responsibility & Leadership but is uncertain, what would you say to them?

My biggest advice would be to put yourself out there. Talk to everyone, get involved in clubs, events, and even parties. Participate in projects and presentations, make friends - these are the moments that truly shape your future and who you are. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone: talk with your classmates and professors, take on new challenges, and embrace every opportunity that comes your way.

GRL and Campus Fryslân give you all the tools and support to do exactly that. It’s through these experiences that I discovered who I am and what I want to do - and I’m sure you will too.

❝Talk to everyone, get involved in clubs, events, and even parties. Participate in projects and presentations, make friends - these are the moments that truly shape your future and who you are.❞

Curious to learn more about the programme?

• Visit our BSc Global Responsibility & Leadership webpage;

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  See you there!