‘VU's programme just stood out because it focused particularly on spatial heritage in a way that I felt other programs didn’t. So, it just felt like a particularly good fit.’

Eye-opening experience

The programme encouraged Jacoby to view landscapes through new lenses, prompting him to re-examine areas he was already familiar with. ‘While I had read about the Dutch polders, I hadn’t experienced them before moving to the Netherlands. Cycling through them and spending time in that landscape was an eye-opening experience.’

Jacoby continuous: ‘The programme helped me refresh my research skills and allowed me to work on a more detailed thesis than I had in my previous master's programme. I focused on the southeastern U.S. and examined the role of a specific pine species in shaping the landscape and its cultural significance. It deepened my understanding of landscapes and improved my ability to research them in detail.’

Spatial Modeling

Jacoby found the elective course Imaging Landscapes ‘positively surprising.’  This course involves using Geographic Information System (GIS) and spatial modeling to map and understand landscape preferences. Jacoby: ‘It was fascinating to see how people from different regions prefer certain types of landscapes, and it was even more interesting to learn about my own preferences compared to others in the class. For example, I discovered that I preferred landscapes in southern Spain, Greece, and Macedonia, while my classmates had varying preferences based on their backgrounds and experiences. Many of the Dutch for example preferred a specific delta area on the southwest of Rotterdam along the coast.’

A great combination of structure and flexibility

In answer to the question of what makes the VU master's programme so special according to Jacoby, he replies: ‘The programme offers a great combination of structure and flexibility. It gives you the opportunity to explore your research interests in depth while also broadening your perspective on heritage landscapes.’
He continuous: ‘The location is a huge advantage, too, as it provides easy access to a rich variety of heritage landscapes both in the city and around the country. This programme really helps you develop a deeper understanding of landscapes and their historical and cultural layers

Academic Skills

At the moment, Jacoby is using his education solely as a volunteer. He applies his academic skills in a different field of work. ‘I work as a consultant on property taxes, assisting investors and homeowners in managing their property tax liabilities. I also help with conservation value agreements for larger properties, advising clients on ways to reduce their tax burden through conservation easements and similar mechanisms.’