The MSc MADE graduation ceremony was a day full of laughter, reflection, and emotion. A true celebration of the new generation of urban engineers.
Graduates received and signed their diplomas. They continued a tradition of the master program, as they pinned their mark on the alumni map. This moment symbolized their place in the MADE community and their connection to Amsterdam and everyone who came before them.
Words of inspiration and pride
The ceremony began with warm, inspiring words from Eveline van Leeuwen, Scientific Director of AMS Institute. She spoke about the power of this new generation to face the challenges in today’s cities, about the importance of the students within AMS Institute, and the community they have built together. Program Director, Jess Wreyford, followed by complimenting the students on overcoming the many difficulties faced. With genuine pride, she emphasized that the future is bright because these students are sure to make an impact.
Choosing MADE
During the ceremony, there were many funny and emotional speeches from professors, thesis supervisors, and friends. They reminded everyone that the journey was sometimes difficult, but always worth it. Through course projects in Amsterdam, Living Labs, and their thesis work, students became independent researchers. Their own words show us why they chose this program.
“I came to AMS because I was looking for a degree within sustainable cities, which was more project-oriented. MADE stood out as a degree that could offer both, in a city I really liked being in. The interdisciplinary aspect; it’s very broad and demonstrates that the problems a metropolitan region faces cannot be solved in isolation. Also, diverse backgrounds come together and learn from one another, which I think is very valuable."–Carlotta Henning
"The program appealed to me as it had a strong connection with real-world projects and cases in Amsterdam. Also, it seemed to me like a program with a lot of opportunity to pursue your own interests and bring your own perspective, with a strong innovative approach."–Max Olzheim
"I was particularly interested in how metropolitan analysis and emerging technologies can be used to develop practical and sustainable solutions for cities that balance environmental, social, and economic needs."–Milo Marler
The heart of MSc MADE: the community
MSc MADE is not only about cities and challenges. It is about connecting people, collaborating, and creating a real sense of community. Many students reflected on this, sharing and highlighting what being part of the MSc MADE community meant to them.
"Being a program that focuses so much on groupwork makes the people around you really important. Therefore, I think having a group of people who you can both work with and also be friends with outside of MADE was really a highlight."–Carlotta Henning
"I’m not sure if it’s the biggest highlight, but at the beginning I was actually very pleasantly surprised by the people, the location, and the curriculum, which immediately made me feel like I was in the right master’s program."–Sofia Rahman
"I think the highlight was the feeling of being part of a bigger community in which people share the same passion and interest. So no particular highlight, but rather a constant, smaller feeling of belonging and feeling proud."–Esmée de Ruiter
Tomorrow awaits
Graduates are now ready to continue their path as urban innovators and critical thinkers. Some are preparing for what's ahead, while others have already begun their new journey. And some are still enjoying the end of this journey. As in every generation of the MADE program, diversity is the key concept.
To our MSc MADE graduates of 2026: we celebrate and congratulate you not only on your academic growth but also on your personal development. The future is in your hands!
Text by Maria Chatzigeorgiou.
The MSc MADE graduates of 2026