What did you like about the Master's programme and why?
After I finished my studies of applied psychology, I decided to travel and work for a few years. Once back in the Netherlands I chose to do a pre-Master and Master's programme in Anthropology at the Radboud University. I wasn’t too sure about the time I thought I would have to spend behind a desk. After a visit at the Radboud Master's Open Day I learned about the fieldwork that I would experience in both the pre-Master and the Master's year and so I decided to start with these two years of studying.
I learned a lot about the topics I’m interested in like citizenship, diversity and gender. The workgroups are not too big and really personal which I think is nice to really understand and deal with different theories. I learned how to connect stories to theories which I really enjoyed. Sometimes I really struggled with the abstract level of some courses and articles, but once I had the chance to really talk to people and experience their lives in the field I thought it was all worth the struggles and I was happy I had all these theories and abstract ideas in mind during field research. Studying this (pre)-Master taught me how to connect daily behaviour with bigger issues.
What did you find most challenging in your Master’s? Have you encountered any obstacles?
The connection between the pre-Master and Master is very good. The step from HBO to the pre-Master was quite a challenge, but once you get the hang of the pre-Master, you will be able to succeed the Master as well. The courses connect really well too. During my pre-Master I focused mostly on gender and diversity, which I could choose in my Master's programme as well.
What was your thesis about?
And so I focused my Master's research on LGBTIQ discrimination and one of their safe spaces in the Netherlands. I had no idea what to expect when I decided to study this particular scene. My interest in the emancipation of sexual minorities led me to this vibrant subculture and in retrospect I can honestly say it has been a beautiful journey, through which I felt humbled and honoured as the informants were willing to share their stories with me. I entered a new world where I met wonderful people. To collect data, I had several in-depth interviews, I went to ballroom parties, and I even took dance classes myself for my research. I was given the opportunity to write about a supportive, resilient and powerful community which still makes me really grateful, proud and happy I chose this Master's programme.