What do you do at VU and how long have you worked here?
I arrange contracts for the teaching assistants at the Computer Science department. Occasionally I do study advisory tasks at the department as well.
What is the best thing about working at the Faculty of Science?
I really like my team, my manager and the interactions with colleagues. I also love the small and big sustainability initiatives both at the VU and the faculty.
What could be better at the faculty?
In general, the atmosphere is very pleasant. It would be nice if people look for more personal contact (in stead of sending an email most of the time). But I do understand the pace is fast and we don’t always have the time and capacity to walk to people's desks with questions. (Some people do though, and I really appreciate it!)
What (social) topic would you like to see researched by a department at the faculty?
I am not a researcher or a teacher myself, so I am not sure what is “researchable”. In general, I like topics about neurodiversity, high-sensitivity. Can this be linked to the Computer Science in any way?
Do you have any work tips for colleagues?
Integrate physically active moments in your work day. For example take a walk with your colleague during a one on one meeting. Another fascinating topic I have been trying to integrate recently is activating your vagus nerve to bring your body back to parasympathetic nervous state – the one where we feel relaxed and safe. These are simple tricks you can find online (e.g. massaging your ear, looking to the upper left and right corner with your eyes etcetera).
What do you recommend colleagues to do, see, read, and/or listen to?
Do several short physical activities a day. Do sleep properly. Do enjoy the sunshine. See other things except your screen during the day – look at the trees outside from the window, talk to your colleagues, activate your vagus nerve. Currently, I am following the series “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones” on Netflix, so far I can recommend it. And yeah, do ferment the vegetables (see my picture), it is so easy and healthy!
Who do you pass the baton to?
Yin Ling Mok.
Work from home or at VU campus?
I love the mix of both. Even though I have to mention that traveling from Rotterdam to get to VU on a busy day is not always fun, it is worth coming to VU - seeing the colleagues and meeting the students in person.
What is your favourite university meal/snack?
Flat white at the coffee place downstairs in the NU building. But I do recommend taking a smaller mug, so they don’t pour too much milk into it. It is also tasty with the oat milk.
What do you think is the most beautiful building at VU?
I like the outside of the main building. I like old robust buildings from 70’s that are considered ugly by some people. I don’t like the inside though, I get lost very often.