Via Azlia Widiyadi

I chose the University of Edinburgh because it offered the kind of programme I was looking for, aligning closely with my interests in environmental policy and sustainability. I’ve always been interested in sustainability, but I wanted to understand it not just from a scientific perspective, but also from a systems and policy lens. The interdisciplinary approach in the School of GeoSciences really resonated with that. 

I was also fortunate to receive the Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP) scholarship, and the University of Edinburgh was one of the top universities listed through this scheme.

I was also drawn to the city itself. Edinburgh, and Scotland more broadly, has such a unique character, and being surrounded by nature while studying made the experience even more rewarding!

My path hasn’t been entirely linear. I studied Industrial Engineering at Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), but towards the end of my degree, I realised I was more drawn to development and environmental issues. Before starting my Master’s, I worked at an environmental NGO in Indonesia, where I was already involved in the environmental policy landscape. That experience shaped my interest in climate and environmental policy and made me realise I wanted to deepen my expertise.

That’s what led me to pursue my Master’s. I wanted to strengthen my foundation and gain a broader perspective, especially in understanding complex environmental challenges.

After graduating, I joined the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Indonesia, one of the Indonesia’s oldest think tanks, where I work in the climate policy unit. My day-to-day work involves policy research, stakeholder engagement, and contributing to reports and recommendations that aim to support more effective climate policy. I also had the opportunity to be a Research Fellow at the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS). 

Across my journey, from NGO work and now a think tank, the common thread is a focus on bridging research and policy, both in national and international contexts. A key highlight has been my involvement in international climate discussions, including participation in COP30, where CSIS Indonesia hosted a panel in one of the pavilions, and I had the opportunity to speak at several pavilion sessions, representing Indonesia's perspective in global climate discussions.

The transition was challenging at first, particularly in terms of the level of independent learning and critical thinking required. Coming from an engineering background and transitioning into a more social science-oriented field also required me to adapt to new ways of thinking, especially in essay-based assessments where there is often no single “right” answer.

However, it was also a very rewarding experience. I learned that sometimes learning also involves unlearning previous assumptions, and over time I became more confident in navigating this new academic environment.

My time at Edinburgh helped me develop both technical knowledge and transferable skills. Academically, I gained a stronger understanding of socio-ecological systems and how to approach complex environmental challenges.

Beyond that, I joined The Edinburgh University Environmental Policy and Lobbying Society (EUEPLS) during the first semester. During my second semester, we had a field research study in El Bierzo, Spain, which strengthened my ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. And during my final trimester, I did an internship with an environmental social enterprise in the UK that focuses on accessible climate education.

I also remember using the Careers Service quite actively when I was preparing for internships, it was helpful to have that guidance, especially as an international student navigating a new job market. These experiences helped me build practical skills, expand my professional network, and it has played an important role in preparing me for my current career.

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Studying as an international student was both exciting and humbling. Being in such an international environment exposed me to so many different perspectives, which really enriched both my academic and personal experience. At the same time, adapting to a new place pushed me to become more independent.

I think one of the biggest things I carry with me is the ability to think in systems, to see how environmental, economics, and social dimensions are all interconnected.

In practice, I use a lot of the research and analytical skills I developed during my studies, but also the softer skills, like working with people from different backgrounds and being open to different perspectives.

What I enjoyed most about the MSc Ecological Economics programme was that learning went beyond the classroom. Field trips, especially to El Bierzo in Spain, helped me see how the concepts we discussed actually play out in real life. I also really valued the people. Being surrounded by classmates who were thoughtful, curious, and kind made the experience even more meaningful.

More broadly, I appreciated the balance between academic life and exploring Edinburgh, Scotland, and the UK. Being able to combine studying with travel and outdoor experiences made my time at university particularly memorable.
 

My dissertation explored: “What Evidence Exists of Socio-Ecological Outcomes of Forest Carbon Offset Projects in the Global South?” It focused on assessing the effectiveness and broader implications of carbon offset initiatives, particularly in developing country contexts.

My advice would be to choose a topic that genuinely interests you and, if possible, aligns with your future career goals, as your dissertation can become an important portfolio piece. Also stay organised, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your supervisor if you have any questions, encounter difficulties, or even just want to have a brainstorming session. 

It also helps to have a support system, discussing your progress or challenges with friends and classmates can make the process more manageable and less isolating.

Take full advantage of everything the programme offers. Engage actively with lecturers and peers, and make the most of field trips and interdisciplinary courses. You will be surrounded by people from diverse backgrounds, which is a valuable part of the learning experience.

Also, look beyond your core courses, attend public lectures, seminars, and even audit classes outside your programme if possible. I personally took several audit classes outside my compulsory and optional course list, regarding carbon and climate economics under the Business School. This is a great opportunity to explore different interests and broaden your perspective.

And definitely take time to explore Scotland. It’s such a big part of the experience, and it reminds you why you’re studying these topics in the first place.

Systems thinking, Interdisciplinary, Grounded.