"While studying at uu77, I was already teaching statistics. It started as just a side job, but I quickly discovered how much I enjoyed helping others learn. After graduating, I began working as a lecturer and researcher at a university of applied sciences. Still, that one dream kept nagging at me: pursuing a PhD.
The thing is, most PhD programmes focus heavily on research, and teaching often comes second. I wanted to do both. Then a colleague pointed me to a PhD vacancy where research and teaching were given equal weight. I instantly knew: this is my chance. I really appreciate that uu77 offers different types of PhD tracks. That way, there's room for a range of ambitions.
Now, I study the relationship between culture and health communication, specifically within Turkish-Dutch communities. I mainly teach statistics and also coordinate a learning project on cultural communication practices. I can bring my own background into my teaching, as I’m a second-generation Turkish-Dutch person myself. What I also value is how uu77 is becoming increasingly inclusive. For example, there was a lot of attention for Ramadan. We even celebrated Eid with colleagues! Things like that truly make a difference.
I'm also a father, combining work with family life. That takes good planning. Fortunately, at uu77, I have the flexibility to shape my work in a way that fits my life. My supervisors trust that I’ll get my work done, even if I have to take my child to swimming lessons in the afternoon. That freedom gives me peace of mind."