BSc Security Studies Graduation Ceremonies: ‘See you in the future’
On Friday 29 August, the Wijnhaven was filled with a special mix of first-year students just beginning their academic journey, and students who, after 1,089 days of intensive study, were awarded their Bachelor’s degree in Security Studies. In two festive sessions, a total of 223 students received their diplomas.
A warm welcome
The ceremony was opened by Anneleen van der Meer, Programme Director of Security Studies. In her speech, she addressed the families, friends, lecturers and staff present, as well as the graduates themselves. She emphasised that the past years had been about more than just academic development:
‘The world needs security experts. But more than that, it needs people with warm hearts and open minds.’
In addition to knowledge and skills, she referred to the personal development the students had undergone as friends, housemates and partners, and to the meaningful relationships that had shaped them during their studies.
Challenges and memories
Next, Dr Andrea Bartolucci, Assistant Professor at the Institute of Security and Global Affairs (ISGA), took the floor. He guided the students through their first case study and, with a smile, reminded them of that intense experience:
‘I made you suffer hard on the Fukushima case study course… but I hope you still have some good memories from it and not only traumas.’
His ultimate message was a life lesson: specialise, but also dare to remain curious and explore broadly. ‘Let passion drive your life, not money or power.’
Practical advice
The keynote speaker was Marco Zannoni, Director of the National Crisis Centre (NCTV) and FGGA alumnus. In an inspiring contribution, he outlined the parallels between the development of the programme, the changing role of the NCTV, and current security challenges. He shared seven personal lessons, including:
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Do not focus only on what might go wrong, but also on why so much does go right.
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Be the one who connects worlds and brings different perspectives together.
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Realise that security sometimes clashes with interests such as privacy, innovation or the economy, and learn to communicate the value of security convincingly.
His concluding message was clear: ‘Be proud as a professional. Be humble. Be curious. And enjoy yourself.’
Studentenstemmen
As tradition dictates, the students also had a voice during the ceremony. Gaia Sterre Mirotti and Joris van Buiten, student ambassadors and graduates, reflected on the intensive lectures, current world events and the friendships formed during their studies.
Their message was clear: ‘These three years have been more than just an academic experience. They've been a front-row seat to a world in flux, and somehow, we’ve changed alongside it.’
They also expressed their heartfelt gratitude to lecturers, support staff and family: ‘Behind every diploma lies a network of support and trust. Without you, this would not have been possible.’
Friendships and future
After the formal part, the celebration moved to the Wijnhaven lobby, where memories were shared, and the future was contemplated. For many, it was not only the conclusion of three intensive years of study, but also a confirmation of the friendships and networks that had been formed.
Cum laude graduate Friso expressed the feeling of many: ‘Wat een feestelijke afsluiting van drie inspirerende en leerzame jaren. De muziek, de verhalen en het jaarboek maken dit tot een onvergetelijke dag.’
The ceremony ended with a collective message of connection and hope:
‘You did it! Let’s not end by saying goodbye, but by saying: See you in the future. Good luck and congratulations, class of 2025!’
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Alumni 'Class of 2025' -
Alumnus Gaia