''The NAHSS goes on''
By Stijn Wijkhuizen | Delegate NAHSS 2022
"The NAHSS goes on" the recurring slogan.
During the summer school itself, it became clear to me that we were presented with an incredibly relevant opportunity to gain hands-on knowledge about the fastest-growing and potentially dominant country/continent of the future. Joris Teer, a strategy advisor for international relations, presented us with an impossible scenario for the Netherlands regarding the situation in Taiwan. Florian Schneider, a strategic analyst at The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies, discussed the communist/political developments in China. Casper Wits and Alerk Iblikim, a lecturer at Leiden University and a Uyghur-Dutch student at Leiden University, talked about the scandals surrounding Uyghurs.
We attended some incredibly interesting lectures, which made me realize that whether or not you end up working in China/Asia, there is a good (significant kan ook) chance that China/Asia will be involved in your future. To have the opportunity to ask experts questions with a group of ambitious, critical students, to discuss until the last beer on Thursday evening, and above all to visit the Chinese embassy is indispensable.
Getting acquainted at kick-off in Utrecht
Enjoying the good weather during the break
The NAHSS is not just about the academic aspect, and the summer school in Leiden is no exception. A tour of the world of Chinese contemporary art and the world of Tai Chi introduced us to some of the cultural facets of China/Asia here in the Netherlands. Additionally, an assignment on Chinese climate innovations inspired research on the business side of things.
To summarize: the 5-day summer school in Leiden is highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn more about the future state of the world, while receiving incredible opportunities to learn more about yourself and your fellow ambitious students. moreover, you will receive a network of inspiring individuals who are all engaged in remarkable activities, providing valuable insights into their vision. "The NAHSS goes on," is a network that lasts and will be an indispensable addition to your future.