Can you introduce yourself?
I obtained both my Bachelor's and Research Master's degrees at Radboud University. Now that I am also conducting my PhD research here, I know the campus like the back of my hand. When I first started my studies, I was admittedly a bit intimidated by the courses on research and statistics. But over time, I have actually grown to love these subjects, discovering how fascinating and valuable they are. With my experience as a researcher and teacher, I aim to help students overcome their own worries about research and statistics. Within the Bachelor’s programme, students meet me during the courses Research Methods, Statistics, and Data Analysis, where my goal is to make these subjects more approachable and engaging for everyone.
Why did you choose to study/work in this field? What makes this field so interesting?
My interest in psychology was sparked by neuropsychologist Erik Scherder, who has appeared on many Dutch TV shows. As a professor of neuropsychology, not only does he have a lot of knowledge about the brain and behaviour, but he also communicates it in such an inspiring way. I found his stories really fascinating, and truly hung on his every word. During my studies, I continued to explore my interests. Although I found out that a career in neuropsychology was not the right fit for me, I did discover my passion for research and teaching. In my second study year, I therefore started teaching work groups for the statistics courses, which I really enjoyed! What I particularly like about research and statistics is that by conducting studies and analysing data , I am able to draw meaningful conclusions about human behaviour. It feels like solving a puzzle: How do you design a study? How can you ensure you are measuring what you intend to measure?
What do you like best about being a lecturer?
I hope to give students the experience of achieving something they initially find challenging. I often talk to students who feel some apprehension about a course or exam. Yet, with a large dose of perseverance they often succeed. As a teacher, watching students grow is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. I also enjoy seeing the unique qualities each student brings to the classroom. Besides my role as a teacher, I am of course also a researcher. When I can inspire students about research, my day feels like a success.
What are you currently doing your own research on?
In my PhD research, I focus on emotional synchronisation. This means that people naturally align their own emotions with those of others; in other words, people engage in 'mirroring'. I am particularly interested in how this concept evolves as someone gets older, which we call a developmental perspective in psychology. Emotion is a fascinating research topic for me because it plays a fundamental role in our lives: emotions help us detect danger, connect with others, and protect ourselves. In essence, we encounter emotions every day, making them highly relevant on both personal and societal levels.
What advice do you have for students making their study choice?
When I was deciding on my own study path, I read a lot to gather information but also listened carefully to my feelings. One practical tip I highly recommend is talking to current students. That way, you can hear about the ‘real’ experiences of being a psychology student. This approach this was very useful for me.