Sarah's story: Transformative learning in action

For Sarah, a Natural Sciences student, five weeks in Leiden became a defining moment in her academic and professional development. With support from the College, she joined an early‑stage drug‑discovery company, working alongside international scientists and seeing first‑hand how complex research unfolds in a commercial laboratory. 

“Watching techniques I’d only encountered in lectures being used for real, innovative science was incredible,” she reflects. “The fast‑paced, client‑focused environment showed me a completely different side of the field.” 

The placement opened Sarah’s eyes to career paths she hadn’t previously considered. “I saw the entire drug‑discovery pipeline, how early ideas eventually reach patients. It reminded me why I love science.” 

College funding played a crucial role. “It meant I could focus on exams and then fully immerse myself in the internship without financial stress. I simply couldn’t have taken this opportunity otherwise,” she says. “It felt rewarding to know Emmanuel was investing not just in my studies, but in my future.” 

For Sarah, the experience didn’t just strengthen her scientific skills, it broadened her horizons, shaped her ambitions, and reinforced her excitement for the path ahead. 

Sarah (2023)