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Portfolio holder Personal Development and Internationalisation

Personal Development

The University of Twente is known for its large number of associations, committees and activities. This is only made possible by students who commit to extracurricular activities. In its role as the umbrella organisation, the Student Union wants to ensure this is possible and Simone is responsible for this within the Student Union’s Board.

She takes care of all extracurricular education opportunities for students. This includes offering students the opportunity to participate in extra-curricular activities. Participation is stimulated in a variety of ways, for example by awarding the More Than a Degree Awards. Simone also provides opportunities for students who are already active to (further) develop themselves through training sessions such as the ‘Board Improvement Programme’.

Internationalisation

More and more international students are arriving at the University. These students need the same possibilities as Dutch students.

To ensure the interest of and create an ideal environment for the international students are heard the board collaborates with the International departments, Buddy committee and the World Sector Officer. Furthermore, the board attends the Platform International Affairs (PIA) meetings. Subjects that the board is dealing with are integration, acculturation, inclusiveness and other activities.

Additionally the board represent the University on an international level within ECIU. This is an alliance of fourteen Universities in Europe. The portfolio holder Internationalisation has a seet in the Student Council of ECIU.

Simone van den Heuvel

Study: Biomedical Technology
Active at: A.S.V. Taste, Dispuut Xoxotywka and DHC Drienerlo
From: Weesp, The Netherlan
Email: simone.vandenheuvel@utwente.nl

About 3.5 years ago, I Moved from Weesp to Enschede to study Advanced Technology, eventually switching to Biomedical Technology. Excited by everything the student city of Enschede had to offer, I immidiately joined DHC Drienerlo and A.S.V. Taste. Through these associations, I found my student house, H64a, met my yearclub and developed myself through both small and large committees. In my second year, I also joined my sorority, Xoxotywka, whom I still see every Wednesday.

Fueled by fantastic committee experiences and a drive to take on bigger challenges, my interest in doing a board year grew more and more. After my first encounter with the Student Union, I knew this would be my next challenge. I recognised the opportunity to develop myself professionally, take on responsibility on a unique scale, and give back to the UT student community.

During my board year, I hope to learn a great deal about myself and about leading a large organisation. These are lessons and experiences I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I am looking forward to all the collaborations and experiences this year will bring.