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My Unforgettable Experience at the European Summer School of Criminology

My Unforgettable Experience at the European Summer School of Criminology




This summer, I had the incredible honour of attending the first-ever European Summer School of Criminology, held in Lausanne, Switzerland. As one of only 20 participants selected from over 40 applicants, I felt truly fortunate to be among such a distinguished group of emerging criminologists from across Europe.

The opportunity to engage with peers from countries like Spain, Germany, and Slovenia, all at various stages of their PhD journeys, was both inspiring and humbling. This experience was particularly meaningful for me, as it allowed me to push beyond my comfort zone and embrace the chance to network with scholars from diverse backgrounds.


Château de Dorigny where the summer school lectures took place


The Summer School, organised by the European Society of Criminology (ESC) in collaboration with the University of Lausanne, is a ground-breaking initiative designed to foster the education and professional growth of early-career criminologists. The five-day program, which offered 2 ECTS credits, featured a curriculum closely aligned with the ESC’s broader mission to strengthen the scientific community and prepare us for the future of criminology. One of the highlights was the opportunity to learn from some of the most respected figures in the field, including Prof. Fernando Miró, University Miguel-Hernandez Elche, Spain, Prof. Marcelo F. Aebi, University of Lausanne, Switzerland and Prof. Letizia Paoli from the Leuven Institute of Criminology, Belgium. Their mentorship and insights into conducting high-quality research were invaluable.



The views were just breath-taking


The program not only equipped me with essential skills for my own research but also provided practical guidance on securing research funding, a critical aspect of my future academic career. The ESC’s commitment to bridging current practices with future advancements was evident throughout the course, and I left Lausanne feeling more confident and prepared to contribute to the field of criminology. The connections I made with my fellow participants and the esteemed faculty have already begun to open doors for future collaborations and opportunities.

Overall, my time at the European Summer School on Criminology was an enriching experience that I will carry with me throughout my academic journey. It was a privilege to be part of such an innovative and forward-thinking program, and I am excited to see how the knowledge and networks I gained will shape my future in criminology. I encourage other early-career researchers to seek out opportunities like this, as they are invaluable for both personal and professional development. 





 

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