Get to know Luija Sophia Sun!

When did you do the IDA master?

2023-2025

How was the IDA Master helpful for what you are doing right now?

IDA gave me solid foundational knowledge and research experience that have been incredibly useful for my PhD! I also gained many social skills from IDA.

What was your favorite course? And why?

Haha, I don’t remember many course names, but my first-year paper and master’s thesis were definitely the most valuable and enjoyable parts for me. The reason for it is I can do the research I am interested in! I also feel like I learned the most from literally doing the research.

What was your favorite moment of the time as an IDA student?

Doing research for my FYP [First Year Paper] and MT [Master’s Thesis].

What was your motivation to finish your studies?

Quite simply, I knew I wanted to do a PhD, and that was my only real intrinsic motivation.

Did you experience stress or pressure in your studies, and if yes how did you deal with it?

Yes, IDA is definitely not an easy program. The way I dealt with stress was by traveling whenever I could. I really miss traveling around Europe!

What can you advise current or future IDA students?

Be curious, be ambitious, and most importantly, work hard and smart.

How was your overall experience in the master?

As I always say, those were two of the best years of my life.

What did you do in your international traineeship and how did you like it?

I presented at EAWOP in Prague, the European Association of Work and Organizational Psychology conference. I really enjoyed it! I learned a lot from it since it was my first time at an academic conference.

Are you still in touch with other alumni students?

Yes!

How did you experience the relationship with your teachers?

10 of 10! They are super helpful, open-minded and nice as a person as well.

Did you know from the beginning what you want to do after your master? How did you find out what you would like to do?

I knew from the very beginning of the program that I wanted to pursue a PhD, so I didn’t really have a “change” in plans—just a consistent goal. I would say: follow your passion!