“Coming from an industrial design background, I initially chose a very technical master’s. But I soon realized I missed the creativity and freedom I’d found in sustainability topics. Industrial Ecology (IE) gave me the systems thinking and interdisciplinary tools I now apply daily in my work. At first I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but I knew I didn't want to work in a standard office job. During my electives, my affinity for water started. I took a field work summer course and applied for a thesis internship. I did my thesis project on the ecosystem services of seagrass and mitigation efforts to reduce seagrass degradation. After the thesis, I continued working at the company. While working in a large company can feel contradictory, it also provides the means to drive real change. The skills I gained during IE, collaborating across cultures, thinking systemically, and applying sustainability in complex contexts, are essential in navigating these challenges and helping shift the industry, step by step.” Graduate Elke Stevens, Industrial Air Emissions Advisor, Environment & Safety, Royal Haskoning DHV

“After a degree in Medicine, I wanted to shift my focus to something that truly aligned with my values, like sustainability. Industrial Ecology (IE) offered the perfect mix: it welcomed students from diverse fields, had an international community, and offered a wide range of topics. I especially appreciated the hands-on nature of the programme, from long-term projects to engaging discussions with motivated peers. IE gave me the systems thinking and project management skills I now use daily in my work. After graduating, I started my own sustainability consultancy, where I advise companies on a variety of topics, from LCA’s to circularity frameworks, often in collaboration with other IE students. Entrepreneurship is challenging, but deeply rewarding. My advice? Follow your passion, trust your strengths, and use IE as a foundation to shape your own path in sustainability.” Graduate Nico van Eeden, Sustainable Consulting, self-employed

“The Industrial Ecology (IE) Master’s programme was a turning point for me. Coming from a background in sustainability, I was drawn to IE’s interdisciplinary approach and the diversity of people, from engineers to anthropologists, all working together to tackle complex environmental challenges. What I valued most was the freedom to ask unconventional questions and explore new perspectives. The programme gave me the tools, especially coding and systems thinking, that I now use daily in my PhD research at CML. But more than that, it offered a strong, supportive community and professors who truly care about your path. I didn’t expect to end up in academia, but IE opened that door for me. If you're curious, driven, and ready to learn from others, this is the place to be.” Graduate Alessia Linares Capurro, PhD candidate, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University