How Aruba Inspired Zaza Ferjancsik ’25 to Embrace the Unknown
Field Research Aruba

Majoring in economics and mathematics with a minor in methods and statistics, Zaza Ferjancsik ’25 has spent his time at UCU exploring the intersections between disciplines and the value of stepping outside of them. Ferjancsik’s thesis focused on solar panel adoption among small businesses in Aruba, but his academic journey encompassed much more: curiosity, exploration, and personal growth.
A key part of that journey was UCU’s Aruba Field Research Programme, which supports students in community-based research on this small Caribbean island. Collaborating with local stakeholders and a peer learning community at the ľϸӰ of Aruba, students explore social, economic, and environmental challenges while earning academic credit. In the reflection below, he shares how he navigated UCU’s diverse curriculum, what he learned beyond the classroom, and why he’s still embracing the unknown.
The diverse curriculum of UCU attracts students who want to “figure out” what they want to do and what they want to focus on. But you don’t need to find the one subject, the one topic, the one dream career that is “perfect” for you, especially not by the time you leave UCU. During my interdomain studies, I believed that I would find my niche at the intersection of my two disciplines, but why constrain myself? Beyond becoming an expert in combining fields, you have the freedom to move between these areas—and why not move beyond them?
Did my math and economics courses help me with my building manager role in BarCo? No. Yet, I enjoyed it immensely, and the bar is still intact. So don’t be afraid to try different things that might not align with your constructed path. Besides the curriculum, UCU and Utrecht offer this opportunity through vibrant student life and a dozen curriculum enrichment programs.
You don’t need to find the one subject, the one topic, the one dream career that is ‘perfect’ for you, especially not by the time you leave UCU.
Most people to whom I recommend the Aruba field research program reply that they think it is not in their discipline and does not align with their studies. While the program is certainly sustainability-focused, it was a great opportunity to find a way to utilize my studies to work towards a sustainability goal. On a small island state, you can feel the impact of your actions, and they do make a difference. It is a great way to get closer to applying your expertise, and appearing in a local newspaper or seeing the impact of your work really ignites your motivation.


Aruba was, on the one hand, a great experience—I enjoyed my time and research there—but it also influenced my career. Thanks to this program, I am about to start my internship in climate consulting at Kalavasta. But still, I don’t think of this as “my path”; I will keep trying and learning about new things.
Even in the tiny town of Ouro Preto, nestled in the heart of Brazil and the final stop of my six-week travels through South America, I found myself learning about unique cultures and environments. These experiences outside the classroom, whether in Aruba or Brazil, remind me that education isn’t confined to textbooks. It’s about staying curious, embracing new perspectives, and growing wherever life takes you.
Field Research Aruba Programme
Interested in learning more? Visit the UCU Aruba Field Research Programme pages for all the details.