Where do you work now and what does your job entail?
I'm doing a PhD at the University of Groningen. That means I'm doing research. I deal with birds in the Wadden sea and am concerned with how they ‘fatten up’ during the winter and prepare for the spring migration to the polar region where they breed.
Why did you choose to work in this field?
During my Bachelor's I actually already noticed that I enjoy doing research immensely. During my Master's I discovered this further and started preparing for a PhD. I have been in love with the Wadden region all my life, so that research direction was easy.
What did you learn during your studies that you now use in your work?
A lot! Reading academic papers, setting up experiments, formulating research questions, but also more ‘soft skills’ like critical thinking, presenting and doing independent research. And perseverance!
How did you experience this programme at Radboud University? In your opinion, what made this programme special?
Very, very nice. The atmosphere at the university is great, both with the students and with the lecturers. I think it's cool that I've been able to surround myself for so long with people who are extremely knowledgeable about the things I find interesting, which makes the university a very inspiring environment.
What advice do you have for students choosing a Master's programme?
Listen to your gut feeling! Choose what you like and what makes you feel good, not what looks best on paper. The best way to test that feeling is to go on a 'Student for a Dag' and actually walk around a course. You have no idea beforehand what a study is really going to be like and what you can do with it in 4-5 years, so focus on what excites you now, not on what careers will come after your studies.