Ancient History (MA)

Alumni blog

Dennis van Leeuwen

Graduated in Ancient History

"I chose Leiden University for the exceptional freedom of choice and excellent reputation of the programme. After my Bachelor’s in History, I followed my interest and curiosity and enrolled in the Master’s in Ancient History.

During my studies, I was active as a student ambassador of History, and I still reap the benefits every day. Skills I acquired then, such as public speaking, event organisation and team management came in handy at my first job – as a museum education officer at the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden (National Museum of Antiquities)."

Translating old sources into relatable information

"I was also able to make immediate use of the subject-specific skills I acquired during the programme: historians are constantly translating old sources into easy-to-understand information and this is ideal for giving guided tours and teaching lessons.

"Through my work as a student ambassador and museum education officer, I have built up an extensive network of contacts that subsequently helped me find my current job."

Pleasure in my work

"I recently started working as a study coordinator for the MA & Research MA in History at my alma mater, where I mainly supervise students during their studies here. In this role, I answer all kinds of questions about study problems, courses, progress and options. The contact with history students, the variety, the challenging environment and pleasant, familiar working environment help me enjoy my work even more!