Maria Petrescu, alumna MA European Studies

According to Maria, Problem-Based-Learning (PBL) made both programmes unique. “Having the ability to hold engaging conversations with a wide variety of bright minds whose contributions added both value and different perspectives to our discussions in combination with the ability to choose the field, you’re most passionate about is what makes the programme so special.” Her favourite course was writing her thesis. “I was lucky enough to be guided by one of the best Professors specialised in International Relations & Defence research. He taught me a great deal about both UN peacekeeping operations, military operations, how to be a critical thinker, the importance of perseverance, and most importantly excelling at everything I put my mind to. While the years have passed, the lessons have stuck with me.”

During the interview, Maria told us more about her current job. “As the Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Programme Manager at the British Embassy in Bucharest, I hold many different and interesting hats. Firstly, I have my programme manager hat in which I am leading on managing a £1.2 million three-year Home Office funded programme, which has the aim to reduce modern slavery within and from Romania. This programme is composed of 13 projects, three of which have already been delivered, the remaining ten being in the process of delivery. My programme manager hat also includes building a broad range of contacts, including Romanian government authorities, other diplomatic missions, national & international organizations, as well as local & international NGOs. Secondly, I also hold my financial and Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) hats which include leading on project procurement, budgetary, operational, and administrative activities (e.g. tracking programme results and promoting MEL). Thirdly, I am also responsible for managing project risks, ensuring high standards of safeguarding, as well as the effective coordination between the UK Home Office Modern Slavery projects and the wider UK government projects.”

When we asked her how the bachelor’s or master’s programme help with her current career, she said: “Both my European Studies bachelor and master degrees have given me the necessary tools to succeed in my career so far by teaching me to view and analyse the world through different lenses e.g. diplomatic, informational, military, and economic. My education has been an important pillar in helping me succeed in my career working for the British diplomatic mission in my home country.”

We also asked how she looks back on her time in Maastricht, to which she replied: “Looking back at my time at FASoS, I can say that it has been such an incredible gift to be able to study here. I can confidently say that they were the best four years of my life. If I were to choose a couple of words to describe the experience those would be joy, amazing friendships, hard work, and plenty of PBL sessions which have shaped me into the professional I am today.”

During her time in Maastricht, Maria had a close group of friends with who she spend most of her time. “I lived in a quiet neighbourhood by the Maas River together with five other housemates, whose presence truly made a difference in my life. Some of them even becoming close friends. As a student, I also divided my time between studying, going to the gym, walks with my neighbour’s dog, volunteering at the Animal Shelter, and working. I keep in touch with most of my friends from both Maastricht and FASoS on a constant basis. Despite not living in the same countries, we love catching up and being each other’s supporters. Distance has brought my friends and me closer than before as it provided a great excuse for travelling on both sides. Several of my Maastricht friends visited me in Bucharest and I am planning to visit them in the near future.”