“At PPLE, I have a dual role. On the one hand, as a lecturer, I lay the theoretical groundwork in my lectures, and on the other hand, as a tutor, I run tutorials in which the students engage more hands-on with the content they acquired in the lectures. I teach interdisciplinary research methods and prepare students to write their Bachelor’s thesis. Academic research is like going on an overseas journey; you need to plan well ahead (write your proposal), have all your gear ready (think about methodology), and be open to unknown discoveries (findings). Next to academic skills and methods, I teach Integrative Seminar IV: Societal Challenges, where students work on serious social and political issues through creative projects. For example, can you imagine developing a board game to raise awareness about climate change or staging a dance performance about compassion? That is possible with us. 

In my own classes, I aim to include the ‘whole student’, which means paying attention not only to what my students think and write about but also how they feel, and how they experience the learning. I often start my lectures with a three minute-mindful-silence to allow students to arrive, distance themselves from the hustle and bustle of the day, and be ready to study. 

All in all, PPLE is a unique programme; it is challenging but, at the same time, very rewarding. I love the programme because the student community is vibrant, and there is much room for students' initiatives. I care deeply about my students and want to support them in navigating academia, finding their voices, and becoming resilient, creative, and empathetic thinkers and doers.”