Building a career after Crisis and Security Management: lessons from alumni
Alumni
Seven alumni of the Crisis and Security Management master’s programme shared their experiences of starting a career. They discussed the importance of professional networks, extracurricular experience and finding a balance between work and study.
On 15 October 2026, the alumni returned to Leiden University for a panel discussion. Now working across the public and private sectors, the alumni included Emma Rottier (Dutch Central Bank), Max Tijmann (Bureau Veritas), Merijn Engel (Dutch National Police), Daan de Groot (Safety Region Kennemerland), Ahmed Al-Yousefi (Accenture Netherlands), Leyla Al-Sallah (OPCW) and Laura* (Ministry of Justice and Security). They reflected on their first steps in the job market and the transition from academic to professional life.
Build your professional network
Asked how they had found their first internship, traineeship or job, the panellists all pointed to the importance of social and professional networks. Several stressed the need to be proactive: share your interest in a specific topic on platforms such as LinkedIn, learn Dutch, take up volunteer work, follow professionals in your desired field on social media and reach out to them for a coffee, either online or in person. As several panellists pointed out, professionals are generally willing to help. Reaching out costs little and can be very rewarding.
Do not underestimate your experience: tell your story
The alumni noted that the Crisis and Security Management (CSM) programme had given them relevant skills (‘what I do in my job does not differ much from what I learned here’), and that they still sometimes refer to their lecture notes at work. However, a degree alone is not enough. Volunteering, mentoring, writing op-eds, spending a year on the board of a student association, internships and other activities that demonstrate societal engagement also matter. A lack of professional experience need not hold you back if you can explain what you have learnt from your experiences and why you are the right candidate. Students were encouraged to remain authentic and, in particular, not to rely on AI when applying for jobs.
Balance your studies and professional experience
Students and alumni alike discussed how to balance work with an intensive study schedule. Some panellists had combined the two but admitted that this came at a cost: they had less time and energy to engage fully in class or at work. The alumni also suggested alternatives, such as taking a study break to do an internship (often only available while you still have student status) and postponing full-time or near-full-time employment until after graduation. They acknowledged, however, that not everyone can afford to do this.
Students were also advised not to put too much pressure on themselves and to consider opportunities that might not be their dream job, such as roles in corporate security as a stepping stone towards their preferred career. Many people enter the job market successfully without previous professional experience, although practical experience can help you understand your needs and shape your next career steps.
* Personal details are withheld at the participant’s request.
The panel discussion was part of the course ‘Managing and Coordinating the Crisis Response’, taught by Professor Sanneke Kuipers and Dr Jeroen Wolbers as part of the Governance of Crisis specialisation within the Crisis and Security Management master’s programme. The course explores the concepts, challenges and dilemmas of crisis management, including leadership, decision-making and the interaction between governments and citizens. By connecting academic insights with real-world experiences, the panel gave students an opportunity to learn from alumni working in the field.