Sophie Peck

What is your background?
I have a bachelor’s degree in Oceanography, where I focused on environmental chemistry. My thesis explored the presence of organic pollutants in polar organisms. After graduating, I took an unexpected but exciting step into public relations, where I spent nearly three years working on national environmental campaigns in Poland. This gave me the chance to see how environmental challenges play out in the real world.

Why did you choose the LUMES programme?
I chose LUMES because of its interdisciplinary approach. Coming from a natural science background, I was interested in deepening my understanding of the social, political and economic aspects of sustainability. Beyond that, the programme’s and university’s strong reputation, along with the supportive application process, made me confident I’d found a place where I could grow both academically and personally.

What academic and personal skills have you gained?
I’ve learned how to use various sustainability tools and frameworks, but I’ve also noticed a difference in how I approach ideas. I’m developing systems thinking and the ability to connect seemingly unrelated dots. On a personal level, I’ve become more open and curious, better at deep listening and more confident working and building friendships in diverse groups. Living and studying in a new country has also made me more adaptable to stress.

How would you describe the courses and the study environment?
LUMES brings together an open-minded and gentle group of people, all driven by a shared care for the world. One of the things I like most is the programme’s approach to learning. The pressure of traditional exams is replaced by space to explore and engage deeply with the topics that are currently interesting to you. Instead of rote memorisation, we work on assignments that challenge your thinking and you can’t fake your way through without having read, participated and reflected. The teachers are supportive, approachable and invested in you.

What advice would you give students starting the programme?
Come in with an open mind and be ready to have your assumptions challenged! LUMES is for students who want to engage deeply, not just check boxes for a degree. The programme covers basics in natural sciences but definitely leans more toward the social sciences, something worth keeping in mind. You’ll be encouraged to question existing structures and look beyond corporate or institutional solutions. If you’re expecting a heavy business sustainability programme, this may not be the place,  but if you’re ready to rethink the foundations, LUMES is incredibly rewarding.

What sustainability issue do you care mostly about?
Water and air issues were always most important to me. They still are, but my perspective has shifted. Over the past year, I’ve realised how interconnected issues truly are. Lately, I’ve become especially interested in exploring how our current economic systems came to be and how, as a society, we can move forward in a way that is genuinely “in service of Life.”

Describe LUMES in three words.
Open, challenging, rewarding.