What do you like about the programme/specialisation and why? How has the programme/specialisation challenged you (in relation to your previous education?
One of the best features of this Master's programme is that you can follow literally any course you want, with respect to the Education and Examination Regulations. This is a very distinct feature of this Master's programme at Radboud University compared to other universities. The freedom gives you this feeling like the world is at your feet, which is good, because not every biomedical researcher wants to, for example, do a PhD or invent a cure to cancer.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class (for example the relationship between students and with the teachers/researchers)?
Most teachers are very willing to help you and explain the topics until you understand them. My fellow students are just as motivated as I am and it feels great to be part of a group that has the same interests in research.
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s (specialisation)? Have you encountered any obstacles?
The pace at which the courses are taught is certainly overwhelming in the first months. The specialization courses are designed to teach you the ins and outs of that domain. That specialized content is put into 4 to 6 courses which last for 4 weeks, each with 2 lecture days per week. Besides the specialization courses you have profile courses, which allows you to emphasize on a specific perspective in research. I chose the Science Communication profile.
Are you currently doing an internship? Or what is your thesis about?
I haven't done my internships yet, but I plan on doing my research internship within Epidemiology and my profile internship within Science Communication. My thesis topic will most likely be something about neurodevelopmental disorders in adulthood.
Why do you think is it important that there are people out there with this degree? What are your plans once have received your Master's degree?
Doing research in the biomedical domain is essential to improve current care for all stakeholders. I think it is also important that knowledge from research is shared with a broader audience. That is why I plan on conducting epidemiologic research as well as contributing to communicating and disseminating findings with the general public. I most likely will partly work as science journalist or editor of some sort, besides doing research.