Alumni dreams #281

Patrick chose International Studies because he grew up in a highly multicultural environment. With a Bolivian mother, a German father, and much of his teenage life spent in South Africa, he was constantly exposed to different cultures, perspectives, and ways of thinking. This international background sparked his curiosity about how the world functions on a global and interconnected level, particularly in relation to politics, economics, culture, and international power dynamics. He selected North America as his study region because he was fascinated by the role of the United States in global affairs, especially its continued influence in international politics, economics, technology, and culture despite growing geopolitical competition.

For his bachelor’s thesis, Patrick explored the relationship between artificial intelligence and global power. His thesis, titled Synthetic Data Imperialism: The Role of Synthetic Data in the U.S.–China AI Arms Race, examined how synthetic data is transforming power dynamics between the United States and China. His research looked beyond traditional discussions of digital power and real-world data extraction, focusing instead on how the ability to generate, control, and govern synthetic data may become a new source of geopolitical influence. By combining perspectives from international relations, digital colonialism, and the geopolitics of technology, Patrick analysed whether synthetic data reinforces existing US technological dominance or creates opportunities for China to challenge this position.

During his time at BA IS, Patrick also completed the Honours College programme alongside his degree, an experience he considers one of the best decisions he made during his studies. Starting in his first year allowed him to explore interdisciplinary topics beyond his core curriculum, particularly in areas such as AI, innovation, and emerging technologies. Since many of his Honours courses took place in Leiden, while BA IS was based in The Hague, Patrick appreciated the opportunity to experience both academic environments and connect with students from across the university. The programme pushed him outside of his comfort zone and encouraged him to pursue practical experiences alongside academia, eventually leading him to a work placement in wealth management and investment consulting.

One of the most valuable skills Patrick took away from International Studies was the ability to view the world through multiple perspectives. The programme challenged him to think critically about global issues by combining insights from politics, economics, history, culture, and international relations. He also developed strong cultural and emotional intelligence through BA IS’s diverse academic and social environment, learning to approach discussions with openness, empathy, and understanding, even when opinions differed. BA IS also helped him connect academic theories to real-world developments, a way of thinking he continues to use both professionally and personally.

After graduating in 2025, Patrick decided to move back into a more entrepreneurial and business-oriented direction. Before starting university, he had already been involved in entrepreneurial projects, and BA IS allowed him to satisfy his curiosity about how the world works politically, economically, and socially. Motivated to keep challenging himself, he applied to Imperial College London and was accepted into the MSc Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Management programme. He is now in the final stage of completing his Master’s degree, studying within a highly international, ambitious, and diverse cohort.

Patrick is currently working on several startup and entrepreneurial projects, particularly in technology, innovation, and digital transformation. Alongside this, he continues to work with clients in wealth management and investment consulting, further developing his understanding of finance, strategy, and long-term value creation. He has also decided to remain in London for the next one to two years, drawn by the city’s international energy and its opportunities in entrepreneurship, finance, technology, and innovation.

To current and prospective BA IS students, Patrick’s advice is to stay curious and not be afraid to step outside of their comfort zone. Whether it is speaking up in class, moving abroad, networking, taking on leadership roles, or applying for ambitious opportunities, he believes that these uncomfortable steps often become the most formative experiences. And finally: try to actually do the readings if you can—you may only realise later how valuable they were.

We look forward to seeing where your entrepreneurial journey takes you next, Patrick!