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This is Leiden: Students were welcomed to city hall by Martin Verwoest, Leiden City Planner, who shared how the city is planning for a liveable future through clean energy, active mobility, green spaces, and community-centered development. As you'd expect from Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ Tech students, they asked questions about preserving historical buildings while integrating modern electrical infrastructure, use of hydro power, designing housing for healthcare needs, improving accessibility in historic districts, and cultural influences that support public transportation use. In the afternoon, students toured the Hooglandse Kerk, a landmark in the center of Leiden known for its soaring Gothic architecture and role in the city’s history. Students were given a rare opportunity to experience its upper levels, climbing the narrow spiral staircase to the top for a view of Leiden from above and to show their Owl love. This behind-the-scenes access was a privilege, offering a perspective few visitors get to see. From the top, students looked out across the city they had spent the morning learning about, connecting the day’s lessons on urban planning to the lived environment below. The group also had the opportunity to hear the organist play and learn more about the incredible instrument, and concluded with a dramatic end of students learning to play. Continuing the city planning tour, students walked the city with Remko Slavenburg, who served as city planner for the municipality for 20 years. He shared his approach to urban design: prioritizing biodiversity and green space when asphalt is needed. Remko also explained that excessive road signs are intentionally avoided—when people are unsure about right of way, they tend to pay more attention. The design is tested by walking through it backward and planned for the slowest person first. The experiences helped students understand how city planning connects energy, mobility, architecture, and ecology—and what it takes to make it better for everyone. EF Study Abroad