Why did you choose Radboud University?
'I chose Radboud University because it offered the PPS program and because it offered me the possibility to combine PPS with CAOS (Cultural Anthropology and International Development Studies). The study advisers at Radboud University were very open and supporting about the fact that I wanted to do a double program. They have advised me to not immediately start two study programs entirely and so I enrolled for PPS and I have followed subjects from CAOS in the past year. Next year I will officially enrol for CAOS as well and do the remaining subjects of the first year, while continuing with PPS BA2.'
How did you experience the transition from high school to university? How did the university/programme assist you with this transition?
'Due to my gap year, high school was not so much in my mind anymore. Nevertheless, I think our professors were very considerate; they all recognized how university was different than high school and guided us through the first weeks. The main difference in my eyes, is that in university you are more autonomous and therefore more responsible for your own progress during the year. In the first year however, the study advisers keep an eye on everyone and their doors are always open.'
What do you like about the Bachelor's programme and why? How has the programme challenged you?
'I like how we get the basis of philosophy, but also already apply philosophical thinking to accurate cases during our courses. Philosophy is really a different way of thinking and starting with the first texts you read and the first classes you follow, it will continue to challenge you in everyday life. Everything I see, read or hear in the world, I think of in a different way. Oh, and your conversations and discussions will also become way more interesting!'
What do you think about the atmosphere in class?
'The atmosphere in class is very open and accepting. Teachers make sure that the classes are not just lectures, but also interactive. They want us to engage and do think for ourselves. If you do not understand something right away, which will definitely happen with certain philosophical theories, they are happy to explain it in different ways.'
What are your plans once you have received your Bachelor’s degree?
'I will for sure finish CAOS and I want to do a Master's degree, probably abroad. My plans afterwards have been all over the place in the last year. I for sure want to be in an interdisciplinary environment so that you keep learning and people can keep learning from you. Perhaps a think tank, politics, development, international relations or writing or journalism. Like I said, all over the place. I think it is important to realise that you do not need to have plans for after university, and even if you do, it is okay to change them. Choose something you really find interesting. If you like your field of study and if you are passionate and ambitious, ideas about the future will come.'
What do you like about Nijmegen?
'I love how Nijmegen is a city but does not feel like one. The city centre has a lot of cafes, bars and lovely shops. The beach at the Waal is great to hang out (especially in summer) and everything is easily accessible by bike (the bike paths are all very good here).'
What would you advise students when choosing a study programme?
'I think it is important to realise that you do not need to have plans for after university, and even if you do, it is okay to change them. Choose something you really find interesting. If you like your field of study and if you are passionate and ambitious, ideas about the future will come. And for everyone who does not know what you can do with a philosophy or PPS degree; I think in this world that is changing faster and faster, with global problems and phenomena, philosophers are needed in all fields.'