Petko Marinikov, Sustainable Energy System Management student from Bulgaria

I’m Petko Marinikov, 23, from Bulgaria, and I’m now entering my fifth year in the Netherlands-a journey that has enriched my academic and personal life ever since I completed my bachelor’s here.

Currently, I’m a proud student of the European Master in Sustainable Energy System Management (SESyM) at Hanze University of Applied Sciences, specializing in Sustainable Innovation Management (SIM). This programme is not just an academic pursuit; it’s a transformative experience that is moulding me into a “Swiss knife” in the energy transition, ready to navigate the technical, economic, and social dimensions of sustainable energy.

The city of Groningen provides an amazing and refreshing backdrop for this journey, where every day feels inspiring. Throughout my studies, I have been deeply involved in multidisciplinary projects that have significantly diversified and deepened my skill set. One of the highlights has been working on projects where we apply the PESTEL model-evaluating political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal factors-to real-world challenges. These projects, alongside engaging field trips and practical assignments, have given me a hands-on perspective on how theory translates into impactful action.

What makes the SESyM experience truly exceptional is the sincere and personal approach of our coaches and lecturers. They establish a natural connection with us, investing genuine interest in our growth and professional development. Their support, combined with rich interactions with my international classmates, creates an environment where creative problem-solving and collaborative learning thrive.

For anyone considering this master’s programme, I offer this advice: embrace every learning opportunity with enthusiasm and curiosity. Dive into the projects, ask questions, and make the most of the practical experiences on offer, as there are a LOT of them. The European Energy Masters isn’t just about academic excellence-it’s about preparing yourself to be a versatile professional who can drive meaningful change in the future of sustainable energy.