Constantin Rudrof, alumnus MA European Public Affairs

Could you tell more about your favourite course?
My favourite course was definitely Lobbying in the EU. It stood out to me because it was particularly practical and directly relevant to professional life. It gave me a much better understanding of how interest representation works in practice and how different actors influence political decision-making.

Before joining the MA European Public Affairs programme, I studied International Relations at the University of Erfurt, with a second field in Political Science and Public Administration. I also spent a semester at TalTech, Tallinn University of Technology in Estonia as part of the Erasmus+ programme, where I studied International Relations, EU policies, contemporary issues and e-Governance. This international experience further strengthened my interest in European affairs and prepared me well for the international environment in Maastricht.

I also appreciated that this practical approach was present throughout the programme. The courses encouraged us to connect academic concepts with real-world political developments, which was especially valuable given my previous internship experience in Brussels and Berlin.

Looking back, what are the things you learned during your studies that truly help you in your current career or personal life?
One of the most valuable things I learned at Maastricht was how to approach complex political issues from different perspectives and communicate them clearly and effectively.

I use these skills regularly in my current position in the German Bundestag, where I work on parliamentary and committee matters, prepare political meetings and discussions, and support international parliamentary formats such as the Parliamentary Assembly of NATO and the Franco-German Parliamentary Assembly.

Beyond the academic knowledge, studying in such an international environment taught me to appreciate different perspectives and to look beyond my own national point of view.

Could you tell more about your current career?
After my studies, I started working as a Policy Adviser for a Member of the German Bundestag and defence policy spokesperson of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group.

My work combines political analysis with the practical organisation of parliamentary activities. I prepare meetings and discussions, contribute to committee work, support international parliamentary formats and engage with ministries, associations and other political institutions.

What I enjoy most is the variety of the work and the opportunity to work on issues closely connected to current political developments. In particular, European, international and security-policy topics. Looking ahead, I would like to continue working at the intersection of European affairs, foreign and security policy, political decision-making as well as public affairs.

What is your fondest memory from your time here in Maastricht as a student at FASoS?
Without a doubt: Carnival.

It is honestly difficult to describe if you have never experienced it yourself. The atmosphere, the costumes, the music and the way the whole city comes together make it an experience you simply have to experience for yourself.

I also have very fond memories of our course community and of being surrounded by students from all over Europe. I definitely miss that period of my life. It was a special combination of studying an exciting subject, living in an international environment and enjoying student life in Maastricht.

Is there anything else you would like to share about your time in Maastricht/at FASoS that we have not asked about?
What made my time at FASoS particularly valuable was the combination of academic learning, practical relevance and an international community.

Looking back, I took much more from Maastricht than just a Master’s degree. The programme deepened my understanding of European policymaking, while the people I met and the different perspectives I encountered continue to shape the way I look at European politics today.