Hi Alexander, could you introduce yourself? Tell me where you are from, what your educational background is, if you had any prior work experience before your internship at HCSS?
Hi! My name is Alexander Krabbendam, and from August 2025 to January 2026 I worked as a general intern at HCSS. Growing up in Scotland to Dutch parents, it’s been amazing to now work in an environment linked intimately with Dutch and European affairs. Whilst I am currently studying an Erasmus Mundus Masters in European Politics and Society, I come from an unorthodox background: I studied ancient history for my undergraduate degree in Scotland and then worked as a professional chef for almost 3 years. It was great to use the skills that I learned in my past experiences at HCSS, and seeing the different backgrounds of everyone who works at HCSS was great: I felt like I immediately fit in and was welcomed.
So, what initially attracted you to the HCSS internship programme and why did you apply? How did you find out about HCSS?
I first learned about HCSS when I spoke at the NATO Youth Summit in Budva, Montenegro. I was there to discuss youth leadership, and another speaker (Sofia Romansky) happened to be an analyst at HCSS. I managed to quickly chat with her about HCSS, which immediately fascinated me. Knowing I would be living in the Hague for my studies, I thought the stars were aligning pretty well.
When I later attended the NATO Public Forum, co-organised by HCSS, I explored more of their work and I was inspired by the sheer variety of topics and expertise. I wanted to learn more about hybrid warfare, foreign interference, and cybersecurity – topics which seem only to become more important and relevant. Seeing that interns at HCSS were able to really contribute by researching as well as writing under the guide of the experienced analysts was a huge plus – I learn best by doing, and here was a golden opportunity. This led me to apply, and, well, here I am!
What specific projects you have you been involved in during your internship? And how have these experiences helped you develop professionally?
I was chosen early on to help organise the two cybersecurity schools HCSS runs: the Indo-Dutch Cybersecurity School and the Southern Africa – Netherlands Cybersecurity School. This was a very unique opportunity and I was given a lot of responsibility to co-organise an online cyber school for over 8000 international students. This type of project management was a great opportunity alongside my other, more research orientated, work, and has really helped me develop a well-rounded profile. As part of organising the schools, I worked closely with the Dutch embassy in India and South Africa, including various ambassadors, which gave the school a diplomatic twist – again helping me develop my skills. Finally, an added benefit was learning loads about cybersecurity itself, being able to attend all the various lectures myself!
How would you describe your internship experience in three words? Please elaborate
Social, dynamic, door-opening.
Okay, maybe that’s not strictly 3 words, but I feel these words really encapsulate my internship at HCSS.
Firstly, I believe it’s important to mention the social aspect of the internship – it’s not only hard work at the desk! You work closely with a plethora of strategic analysts on various projects, allowing you to pick their brains on their expertise. Moreover, there are a bunch of other interns who are all on the same boat as you. We’ve been more than colleagues and have hosted various intern dinners – a fun way to get to know everyone better!
The internship is also dynamic – no day is really the same and there are always interesting things happening! I’ve had the opportunity to work on many different topics, and meet new people – including one time helping to host an Indian delegation at our office in the Hague.
Finally, this internship has been door-opening, and feels like it has built the foundation for my next steps. From various networking opportunities to the helpful mentorship program, HCSS cares about its interns beyond simply ‘the job’. Overall, I am very happy that I’ve had this opportunity, and I’m looking forward to see where it brings me next!
This interview was conducted by HCSS Communications & Events Officer, Stephanie Govaerts
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