Student Reviews
In the second semester of the academic year 2023–2024, I received thesis supervision from Laura Peters. I found this to be a very positive and pleasant experience. Below I describe my main experiences.
After my thesis topic and supervisor had been assigned, Dr Peters contacted me by email. She provided clear information about her working method and supervision process. This created clarity from the very beginning and helped to set concrete expectations.
During our first meeting, we made agreements about communication, meetings and deadlines. There was also room for me to share my own ideas and suggestions. This was very helpful, as it ensured that our expectations were well aligned and provided a clear structure for the process.
At the start of the process, we agreed on deadlines for the different chapters. One week after each deadline, a feedback meeting took place. This helped me to stay continuously engaged with my thesis and to keep it a priority alongside other obligations. In this way, I did not lose focus on the topic and work did not accumulate towards the end of the semester.
The first document I submitted was a research plan. Dr Peters helped me to sharpen my sub-questions. This gave me a clear structure and helped me throughout the process to avoid getting lost in the large amount of information.
During the feedback sessions, it was clear that Dr Peters had carefully read my chapters and had taken the time to understand the subject matter. This was very reassuring and, although this may sound obvious, this has not always been my experience in the past.
Feedback was provided both in writing and verbally. This worked very well because it prevented misunderstandings and made it possible to discuss questions or uncertainties directly.
Communication by email worked very well. I received quick responses to my questions and always felt comfortable emailing her or approaching her when I got stuck.
During our meetings, there was plenty of room to ask questions and we always had enough time to discuss everything properly. The atmosphere was pleasant and supportive, which made me feel free to express doubts and concerns.
It was also very motivating to receive genuine compliments alongside constructive feedback. This encouraged me and gave me the confidence and motivation to continue working on my thesis.
Sara R.
I recently completed two LLM programmes in Law and also the Bachelor’s in Philosophy I did at the same time with my LLB, which means that I have now written a total of four university theses.
Looking in hindsight, it is more than clear that none of the other three compare to the thesis I wrote with you. And while I might have been the one behind the words, I truly do consider the place that thesis has in my heart a testament to your dedication, input and support. Out of the range of supervisors I have had the privilege to work with, your approach distinctly stands out. Your presence, attentiveness and genuine care shaped that piece of writing in a remarkable way – without holding back from criticism while still encouraging my creative and original expression.
More than the thesis though, you had an immense impact on my self-image, confidence and drive in the academic context, which I am very grateful for. I can only imagine that this type of dedication takes a toll on your time and energy, but I hope you find the bandwidth and support in your own life to continue doing this with future generations.
The LLM thesis I wrote with you remains the highlight of my academic years in Groningen; and I know Angela feels very similarly, the common denominator being your supervision.
I can only wish this type of experience on any student who finds themselves in the position of writing a master’s law thesis. Having said this, I hope all your commitments are going well and that you have as many fun and exciting projects as I remember!
With great appreciation,
Filip S.
