What is the Leiden Leadership Programme? 'Rather an experience than a programme'
What is the Leiden Leadership Programme? And why is it a worthwhile addition to your master’s? Alumnus Ruilin Ma gained more confidence in his capabilities through the LLP – but there were things he valued even more: ‘Proud to be part of such a warm community.’
Hi Ruilin! Could you tell us a bit about yourself?
‘Hello, I’m Ruilin Ma. I recently graduated for my master’s in Artificial Intelligence at Leiden University. I also followed the Leiden Leadership Programme during my master’s. In daily life, I love biking, photography and presenting. It allows me to embrace nature and share my journeys with people around me. I also like to explore new places – finding something new to see, experience or eat always excites me!’
If the LLP were a food, what would it be?
‘Hmm tough question! I don’t know what food, but I would say it was surprisingly sweet. The people were very nice and warm-hearted. All of them.’
What surprised you about the Leiden Leadership Programme?
‘I thought it would be very similar to what I was learning in my master’s. But it’s more of an experience rather than just a programme. You unleash your hidden leadership powers, without even noticing. Only when I look back, I realise how much I’ve learned. Before, if I had to lead, I relied on my gut alone. Now I’ve learned theories and skills and I have become more confident as a leader.’
Can you give an example?
‘One of our skills trainings was about asking questions in professional settings. Before, I could get stuck after a number of questions. Now I’ve got the tools to ‘upchunk’ or ‘downchuck’: to go into more detail or a more abstract level. I still use this in daily life.’
An important part of Ruilin’s journey was the practical assignment, in which students get to apply what they’ve learned and gain professional experience. In teams, they tackle an issue for an organisation. Ruilin and his team worked with the Leidse Schouwburg and advised the venue on how to remain the most sustainable theatre in The Netherlands.
What did you learn in the practical assignment?
‘One theory we had learned was about distributive leadership: why you need to distribute responsibilities to many people, and how to do that. We were with five people from different five different countries and five academic disciplines. The theory about distributive leadership came in very handy with such a diverse group. It saved me a lot of stress.’
Ruilin also experienced the importance of communication. He has some advice for future students. ‘Be honest, and you will have a wonderful time. For example, if you have a deadline, tell your team way ahead, so you can make a better plan for everybody.’
Looking back on the LLP, what are you most proud of?
‘Being in a community of like-minded people. Everybody was very warm, passionate and professional – moving towards the same goal. I also learned a lot, but what really mattered to me was being part of such an environment.’
Is that why you wanted to speech at the graduation ceremony?
‘Yes, and I also felt like I had something to tell.’ One of the things Ruilin learned that year is that leaders sometimes have to make tough decisions. In his speech, he warned his fellow students not to let artificial intelligence take that away from them. ‘AI is there for assistance’, Ruilin now says. ‘Not to lead us. We need to be brave, and make the final call. As future leaders, we need to be prepared.’
Speaking of the future: do you have some final words for future participants?
‘The LLP will make you more confident and more capable at doing group work. No matter what work you’ll do, you’re going to work with other people. With the LLP, you will gain the confidence, capabilities and professionalism to do just that.’
What are you like as a leader?
In the Leiden Leadershi Programme you disover and devvelop your leadership style alongside your master's.
- You will gain knowledge and skills to become a driver for positive change
- You will explore and develop a personal leadership style
- You will get in touch with motivated students from all faculties and build your network
- You will learn to reflect upon your qualities
- You will get a taste of professional life through a practical challenge at a real world partner organisation
Find out more on our website! Or look into the Master Honours Challenges if you prefer a single challenge over a full programme.
Text: Michiel Knoester
Photos: Buro JP, Ruilin Ma