I have been working in Frontex for years in the agency’s operations in the Mediterranean.
I have been working in Frontex for eight years and have always been involved in the agency’s operations in the Mediterranean. When I heard that Frontex is launching the second edition of the Masters programme in strategic border management and was giving two staff members the opportunity to attend, I didn’t have to think twice – I decided to apply immediately. I was keen to learn more about border management and develop my career.
When I got accepted, I was very happy. Now, after two years of intensive academic work, I can safely say that the programme exceeded my expectations. It gave me the opportunity to get a more in depth knowledge of European integrated border management with an excellent and qualified group of teachers from all around Europe. I also got to meet and create friendships with colleagues from different organisations in the European Union, which was a great added value!
In the course of the Master’s, we had to complete 10 modules in different areas such as strategic analysis, fundamental rights and ethics, leadership, EU border policies, innovation and technology, etc. It was tough but extremely interesting! Afterwards we had to write a dissertation on a subject related to the area of the studies.
The programme has been extremely important for my current duties as Frontex Liaison Officer to Italy and Malta, where I work closely with those two EU member states to support them in the implementation and further development of their Integrated Border Management strategy.
I believe that this Master’s is a unique academic opportunity to further develop the knowledge about European Integrated Border Management in an academic and professional context. I highly recommend it!
