Student assessor Mark de Jong

The power of the first step - blog Mark de Jong

When I first walked into the student cafeterias at the Huygens building in 2019, a whole new world unfolded before me. Managed by and for students? Fellow students voluntarily making toasties every break? All at cost price? My active student life had begun, and I was excited. Once involved with the student association, I realised it wasn't just about the cafeterias. There were study trips and large student parties at Doornroosje but also LaTeX workshops and programming contests, all organised by students. A beautiful mix of enthusiastic individuals in the right place.

As I progressed in my studies, I took the time to give back to the students who had supported me. I put my studies on hold for a year and became a board member. I didn't have to think twice about it; the welcoming environment I had entered had to continue to exist. During that time, I met many other students who felt the same way and took the opportunity to explore themselves alongside their studies and help fellow students.

I am grateful for the opportunity to discover myself. However, many incoming students may not have that chance. The government's plans are clear: Education is secondary. If there had been a penalty for long-term studying when I considered a board year, I wouldn't have been able to do it. I would never have discovered what exists beyond the courses in my studies. The position I am in now would have been unattainable if I hadn't taken that first step. If there is no room for an active student life, soon there will be no students willing to serve on committees, take on board positions, or engage in education, both within and outside the student representation bodies. I wish every student the experiences that have shaped my values and priorities.

That's why I will join the demonstration in Utrecht on 14 November. For me, this demonstration is not only against budget cuts but also for a free student life where every student has the opportunity and time to develop. Perhaps I'll see you there, or else in the North Cafeteria at Huygens!

Written by
Mark de Jong
Mark de Jong is assessor at the Faculty of Science and represents students in that role. He is also a student of Data Science.