“If we can't have a conversation at the university, where can we?”

The university of the future

The new Rectores Magnifici are a new type of leader. For example, Annelien explains that in her position she makes use of some personal experiences. For example, students know that she is married to a woman. In her case, the line between work and her private life is a lot less visible. By breaking taboos, she hopes to start a conversation and bring about change within Erasmus University. 

This change is also necessary to reduce the transfer from high school to university. Annelien: “Erasmus University Rotterdam has an active outreach program that brings students into contact with the university at an early age”. This lowers the threshold to possibly apply for the university. “Being young and a woman as Rector Magnificus also helps to increase diversity, you can't be what you can't see.”

Getting into university is not the ideal

Society often paints a picture that an education at the university is the highest attainable. According to Jeroen and Annelien, it is more important that a study program is a good fit for a student. Some people are not happy with theoretical education. Annelien: “I don't think it's necessary for everyone to go to university. It is sometimes seen as the highest ideal, but it is not for everyone. It is important that you choose the education that allows you to become the best version of yourself.”

The university is also a place for free academic discussion, also about difficult topics. This can sometimes lead to uncomfortable moments, but it remains important that topics remain negotiable. Annelien: “If we can't have a conversation at a university, where can we?”