Student testimonial
Adrian Odio Cortes - Biobased and Circular Economy
I studied in Costa Rica to become an agricultural engineer with a focus on both business and management of natural resources. After that I moved to Hong Kong and interned for a company that worked with urban farming on rooftops, then I worked a job in alternative proteins. During this job, I became passionate about circular economy, sustainability and specifically closing loops. I always knew I still wanted to do a master’s degree, but first I wanted to get my feet wet, gain experience, and build my CV. When the timing was right, I moved to Wageningen and started the Master Biobased Sciences.
My advice for people who are considering the Master Biobased Science, is to thoroughly look at the content of the program.
Could you please tell us about your educational background?
“Before I came to Wageningen, I was also looking at different master’s programs in both the United States as well as Costa Rica. Eventually, I chose Wageningen University & Research because it’s a world-class university in my field and I wanted to get to know a different culture. Moving from Hong Kong to Wageningen was a big change, but I really like it. Living in Wageningen is great for me; I love to exercise, specifically triathlons, and there are great places here for runs and bike rides. I’ve also been able to enjoy the social life, with a fun group of both local and international students.
I first thought I would choose specialisation Biomass Production and Carbon Capture because it aligned most with my background. However, during my work experience, I gained a passion for entrepreneurship, and I started to see the potential for circularity in the private sector. I figured that with specialisation Biobased and Circular Economy, I would be able to complement my technical background with more business, economics, and circularity. Eventually, I hope to be able to enter the private sector and help companies transition to a biobased economy. “
What do you like about Wageningen?
“What I really like about this university, is the freedom to shape your own program. Besides the mandatory few courses, I could pick others that either reinforce skills that were lacking or build completely new skills that could be helpful in the future. In this specialisation, we are taught that we’re moving from a petrol-based to a biobased economy. We don’t focus too much on the technical feasibilities, but more on the implementation into the economy.”
What do you advice future students?
“My advice for people who are considering the Master Biobased Science, is to thoroughly look at the content of the program. Don’t just do it because it sounds promising but try to align it with your next step. This is quite a novel program, which I think poses both a challenge and an opportunity. Not many people know what a Master Biobased Sciences entails, but I think there will be a demand for my skill set and I’m part of one of the first cohorts to graduate.”