Please tell us about the Master's Thesis Share (MTS) – How did it first begin? What is its purpose?
The Master’s Thesis Share was initiated in 2016 and has since become an annual tradition, organised by the VP of Master’s Programmes and the Direction of Studies. It is the only platform at the Institute that allows graduating Master’s students to share their research projects with professors, colleagues, and currently enrolled students by engaging in critical discussions. The MTS also facilitates a space for currently enrolled students to prepare, brainstorm, and explore the thesis topics, and the graduating students feedback about the writing process has been useful.
Who is the MTS open to and how is it organised?
The MTS is open to all those who are interested in learning about their peers’ work and want to spark their own imagination. New students, 2nd years, faculty, etc. are all welcome to attend. Starting early in my mandate, I make a call for interested students who want to present their thesis, and then I organise the panels by theme. It's eye opening to see the many interests of my peers who I casually chat with.
This year, 29 students are presenting their thesis. Each graduating student must discuss their methodology, but that is my only requirement. I’ve left panel planning to be between the moderators and their panelists. That was intentional for me to encourage in the event, because graduating students might want to be a bit more relaxed while talking about their personal work. So some panels might have formal presentations while others are a discussion. I too have yet to find out!
What have some of the highlights of the MTS been over the past few years?
Witnessing both the wide variety of thesis themes and the way in which the event has evolved have been definite highlights. I have a lot of documentation to draw inspiration from on how to organise this event. It’s been fun to read through the thesis titles and take inspiration from the past work.
Will you be taking part in the MTS, and if so, can you give us a brief description of your master’s thesis?
I will not be taking part in the MTS this year because I have yet to write mine. I’m in the early stages of development for my thesis; I am thinking of doing a quantitative analysis on climate change politics and GDP as a measurement of well-being. That being said, catch me presenting at the 2027 MTS on how many times my idea changed!
As Vice-President of Master's Programmes, what would you say to prospective students thinking about doing their master’s at the Geneva Graduate Institute
Be open, curious, and listen to others. The Geneva Graduate Institute is a perfect place to blend both personal and academic growth. Stay light and have fun, your thesis will come to you along the way.
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