Mohammed Ramadan

Master’s in Energy Policy Studies, graduated in 2022

coming from Palestine, currently studying doctoral program in International Relations and European Politics

Interviewed by Priya, October 2023

1. How has your Master‘s of Social Studies degree helped shape your career path?

As someone with a degree in Engineering, my preference has always been to emphasize the technical details within natural science applications, usually overlooking the broader societal implications of these innovations. Nevertheless, my primary interest lies in directing my focus towards the social implications of engineering advancements, the utilization of natural resources, and many subjects within the realm of science. Therefore, I dedicated a period of two years to earning a master's degree in Energy Policy. Currently, my professional career includes the integration of engineering applications within the context of corporate business operations within the oil and gas sector.

2. Can you share some examples of the specific skills and knowledge you gained during your program that have been valuable in your professional life?

One of the many advantages I have acquired from Energy Policy is the capacity to consider a subject in its entirety. I clearly remember Dr. Jan Osička drawing a comparison between the energy supply chain and the pyramids during my freshman year. Upon viewing the pyramids in Egypt, people frequently neglect to reflect on the immense complexities that contributed to their construction; instead, they become captivated and overlook the remarkable tasks. The same holds true when filling up at a gas station; we rarely consider the entirety of the process, which includes underground oil extraction, refining, transportation, and distribution to the final consumer. By having a holistic perspective, one can dig into the specifics of each phase of the process, grasp the effects of prior and subsequent phases, and take into consideration the overarching geopolitical and social factors that significantly influence the price, availability, and other variables.

3. What were some of the most memorable courses or experiences during your Master's program?

Energy and Society Theoretical Perspectives and Social Science Methodology were two courses that played a pivotal role in my transition from natural sciences to social studies. In addition to significantly enhancing my capacity to conduct social science-related research and inquiry, both courses have equipped me with the tools necessary to understand energy issues through the lens of international relations theories. Although they both demand great effort and time to accomplish, I experienced a change in my perspective and approach to analytical thinking following the completion of both courses. Motivated individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in social science research should consider both courses to be essential.

4. How did your program prepare you for working in a diverse and multicultural society?

The Faculty of Social Studies has an international atmosphere for English programs students. In addition to the formal activities carried out in the faculty, you will be attending lectures and seminars with a wide spectrum of nationalities who have different cultural and ideological backgrounds and experiences. Being in such a diverse group gives you the opportunity to understand other people’s perspectives, engage in meaningful conversations, and shapes your personality to maximize the benefits of your international experience. For example, our group of friends and colleagues from the Energy Policy program were very diverse, from: Palestine, Ghana, Germany, Russia, Georgia, Mexico, Czechia, Norway, India, and others. Such a group of smart peers pushes you to do your best and extends your horizons to understand more through discussing new ideas and perspectives.

5. Have you pursued further education or specialized training after completing your Master‘s of Social Studies degree? If yes, how has your experience been so far in your PhD studies?

My intention from the beginning was to pursue higher education in social studies. I started my PhD studies journey in International Relations and European Politics immediately after finishing my Master's. Currently, I’m in my second year of PhD at the Faculty of Social Studies, my dissertation focuses on Social Network Analysis of Foreign Aid Allocation to the Occupied Palestinian Territories. So far, I find it not only inspiring, but also motivating. The key to enjoying this journey and utilizing it to the maximum is in collaborating with a great mentor that you work closely with to sharpen your skills and progress step by step to become an intellectual in the field. Fortunately, Dr. Petr Ocelík is my supervisor, and like all the FSS staff, he proves to be a reliable supporter and mentor.

6. What initially attracted you to the field of social studies, and has that motivation evolved over time?

I always felt that I wanted to study, investigate, and discuss topics that are directly impacting our daily lives and changing the surrounding social atmosphere. My motivation has shifted over time to leave an impactful legacy in the field. I think of this to be done by both becoming a university teacher who helps younger generations to evolve and equip them with the needed tools to understand and analyze social phenomena, and by contributing to the existing body of literature for current and future scholars “Non Solus”.

7. What advice would you give to current students of the Bachelor‘s/Master‘s of Social Studies program who are looking to make the most of their education and prepare for future careers?

Hard work always pays off. With the rapidly developing status of education and the involvement of AI, you need to make the best use out of your study years. My advice is to put your maximum effort into your studies and into what you love. Make use of the available tools in a meaningful way without discouraging yourself from learning the hard way. Engraving the stone is a hard task, time and effort-consuming, but the result endures forever.