Kerstin Saathoff

What is your background?
I have been in the corporate world for 16 years; the majority of this time I spent working at Google in different locations, most recently as a Senior Program Manager in the EMEA News Partnerships team managing innovation projects. Before that I spent some time in technical account management for ad serving, as well as online PR.

My educational background is a Bachelor’s degree from Hanze University of Applied Sciences in Groningen in International Communication. 

Why did you choose the LUCAS programme?
Over time, definitions of what it means to have a positive impact in the world can evolve. Outside of my work, climate change increasingly occupied my thoughts. I've felt a growing need to align my daily work more directly with the global challenges we face. 

I started looking into my options and LUCAS aligned perfectly with my objectives. At this point, I had understood that we in principle have the tools to mitigate climate change, yet, global temperatures continue to rise. LUCAS seemed to address just that intersection of physical possibility and human inability, which is what drew me to it. Additionally, I was both drawn to and humbled by the high standing of Lund University.

What academic and personal skills have you gained so far?
First of all, I feel very honoured that I have the opportunity to do this Master’s in Lund and learn from distinguished faculty who bring so much experience. In addition, coming from a background of applied sciences, I have been learning a lot about the more research-centered approach at LUCSUS and the skills required to produce critical, high-quality research. 

How would you describe the courses and the study environment?
First and foremost, everything is fairly intense: from the topics covered, which can be emotionally challenging, to the pace, breadth and depth. I really appreciate that we received a rapid immersion into climate science, before connecting societal topics to climate change. 

What I really like is that we are a small group and the cohort is highly committed. So there is a sense of community, which enriches the classroom discussions. 

What advice would you give to students starting the programme?
Be prepared to learn things that you cannot unlearn. Be ready to feel frustration, anger, fear because of the inaction we see in the world and let it be the driver for your action. Be encouraged by the fact that you and your fellow students still decide to do something about climate change and the injustices that come with it. 

What climate change issue do you care mostly about?
While it is far from the only issue I care about, my main entry point is intergenerational justice. As a mother, I find it almost impossible to understand how people in positions of power can justify delaying the burden of action onto the next generations. It breaks my heart. 

Describe LUCAS in three words
Empowering, Emotional, Eye-opening.