Insights from CSM alumni: real-world experience and career guidance
On Thursday, 17 October, the Crisis and Security Management (CSM) master’s programme hosted an insightful alumni panel with five graduates from different cohorts. The panel offered current students the chance to hear from professionals who have carved their own paths in crisis and security management.
The panel included Luuk Rietveld (Manager of the Awareness, Behaviour, and Crisis Management team at Secura), Paul Biehl (Security and Crisis Management at KLM, Travel Risk Management), Chloe Hijantianou (Risk Analyst, Company Security Officer), Chiara Anfuso (PhD in Crisis Management), and Noud van Bolderen (Staff and Parliamentary Advisor at the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security). Each panel member shared their personal journey, discussing how they reached their current positions and what they valued most about their time in the CSM master’s programme.
The appeal of hands-on crisis management
A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the appeal of the CSM programme's hands-on approach to studying crises and crisis management. The graduates emphasised that the programme's unique focus on real-world crises was a key factor in their decision to pursue it. Many pointed out that the CSM master’s programme had prepared them to be at the forefront of crisis situations, enabling them to respond effectively when needed.
The importance of conciseness in communication
When asked whether applying their knowledge from the CSM programme to their professional roles was easy, all the graduates unanimously highlighted the skill of conciseness. The CSM master’s programme, with its demanding assignments and focus on synthesis, taught them the importance of clear and concise communication. This skill has proven invaluable in their careers, as many graduates are frequently required to write policies, reports, or briefings that must be easily understood by colleagues and stakeholders.
Academic and professional perspectives
Chiara Anfuso, who decided to pursue an academic career, shared her personal experience. Initially, she had not planned on entering academia but was drawn to it after completing internships. She realised that she wanted to broaden her understanding of crisis management and teach others. Anfuso emphasised how the theories and skills learned during the CSM programme continue to influence her work, particularly the importance of crisis communication, even in everyday situations.
Seize opportunities and apply widely
The alumni panel also emphasised the importance of seizing opportunities and applying for a wide range of roles. They encouraged current students to apply for positions across various fields, including those labelled as 'junior,' as employers seek individuals who can synthesise information quickly, perform well under pressure, and learn new skills efficiently.
Bridging the gap between academia and industry
The alumni panel offered invaluable guidance on how to approach the job market, emphasising the versatility of the skills gained during the CSM master’s programme. They reassured students that the knowledge acquired throughout the course would not only serve them in their careers but also in daily life. Their insights provided a clearer perspective on the professional opportunities available and reinforced the real-world relevance of the programme's content.
Text: Jade Guilbaud
About MSc Crisis and Security Management
The Master’s programme in Crisis and Security Management (CSM) provides an in-depth exploration of contemporary security challenges, both at local and global levels, within a complex and globalising world. This full-time, one-year programme stands out in the Netherlands for its combination of common courses and track courses, with a strong focus on both academic knowledge and professional skills. Students select one of six specialisations: Governance of Crisis, Governance of Radicalism, Extremism and Terrorism, Cybersecurity Governance, Intelligence and National Security, War and Peace Studies, or Governance of Violence. Each specialisation consists of a coherent set of courses designed to equip students with specific skills and expertise.
The CSM programme uses a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from Security Studies, Public Administration, Political Science, Law, and International Relations to address the challenges of crisis and security management. Learning by doing is central to the programme, with innovative teaching methods such as serious gaming, team collaboration, and presentations to diverse audiences. Students are encouraged to self-direct their learning while applying theoretical knowledge to real-world cases, ensuring they graduate as academically trained professionals ready to tackle complex security issues in the field.