Light Academia
Light Academia — A Modern Take on the Love of Learning
Light academia is a social and cultural approach that values creativity, intellectual curiosity, and open-mindedness.
It is inspired by the aesthetic trend of the same name and based on my 10-year experience in academia: the institutions involved in the pursuit and dissemination of knowledge, like universities and research centres.
Light academia encourages to explore the world with an open mind and heart. Education is important not only for science and progress, but also for collective wellbeing. Therefore, it includes emotional, cultural, social, as well as moral and civic aspects. As a lifestyle, light academia promotes personal growth, slow living, and self-care. It emphasises the enjoyment of learning and the pursuit of knowledge for their own sake rather than for professional achievement. It is often associated with a love for literature, poetry, and art, as well as an appreciation for music and the study of languages.
What is light academia?
I have spent over a decade in universities. Academia can be a stressful, prejudiced, and competitive environment. It can rebuff bright minds and creative souls because of its limitations. What I am proposing instead is a more compassionate approach: light academia.
Academic Writing Handout
This document (100% free!) contains precious writing tips and advice gathered over a decade in academia. It is a step-by-step guide on how to craft excellent academic papers at university.
How to get into Oxford University?
The ultimate Oxford application guide, based on my experience as an Oxford graduate. I received offers for both a M.Phil. and D.Phil. degree at Oxford.
Blog Posts
My academic background
I am a Doctoral Researcher (Ph.D. candidate) and Lecturer in Security and Global Affairs at Leiden University. There, I also work as Wellbeing, Inclusion, Diversity, and Equal Opportunities Representative. In addition, I was selected to join the Europaeum Scholars Programme, a two-year course based in Oxford for doctoral students seeking to make a difference to Europe.
Previously, I contributed to research projects for Europe’s Stories at the University of Oxford, The Hague Program on International Cyber Security, and the Global Governance Institute in Brussels. I also have experience in editorship and strategic communication consulting.
I hold a M.Phil. in European Politics and Society from the University of Oxford and a B.A. (summa cum laude) in International Affairs from Vesalius College – Brussels School of Governance in Brussels.
Policy Writing Guide
Unlock the art of impactful policy writing with our concise guide. Tailored for students, scholars, and social entrepreneurs striving to influence European policy, this resource demystifies the art of writing policy proposals.
Public Speaking
I have a far-reaching public speaking experience as expert panelist and moderator worldwide. My style is approachable and engages audiences of all backgrounds.
In the past 10 years, I have spoken at 80+ events, ranging from academic exchanges to school visits, with audiences from 10 to 400 people.
Academic Coaching
With experience in five universities across four countries and in three languages, I provide valuable support to students seeking to step up their academic career, whether that’s through a new degree or a scholarship programme.
Interested in writing a book review?
As Book Reviews Editor at The Hague Journal of Diplomacy, I connect readers with publishing houses to review recent contributions in the field of diplomacy, foreign policy, and global affairs.
Reviews are typically between 800-1500 words. They summarise the content of the book, in addition to providing a critical analysis of its methodology, substance, and wider contribution to the literature.
We also accept review essays (up to 5,000 words), which group several contributions on a topic or author.
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Hi! I’m Sophie
I was born in Belgium, educated in Europe, and now exploring the world with the objective to better understand how we can make it a better place.
I currently work as a doctoral researcher (PhD candidate) in The Hague. I hold a Masters degree (MPhil) from the University of Oxford and have 10 years of experience as a consultant in public diplomacy, strategic communication, and global peace and security.
In my personal and professional lives, I learned to embrace challenges and keep a positive mindset rooted in life-long learning. There’s always a valuable lesson to take.
My coaching philosophy is rooted in authenticity, empathy, and self-care.
