Every student has a story, and mine is one of resilience, growth, and the belief that every voice deserves to be heard.
I’m 22 years old, and I grew up in a Dutch village called Mijdrecht. These days, I live in Uilenstede, a vibrant student community near Amsterdam. Before starting my studies, I took a two-year gap period, not to travel the world or explore new hobbies, but to focus entirely on my mental health. It was a challenging, transformative time that taught me resilience, patience, and self-compassion.
Although mental health is never a finished project, I eventually felt ready to begin my academic journey. I started studying Pedagogical Sciences at the Vrije Universiteit, and from day one, I knew I had chosen the right field. I love exploring how children learn, grow, and thrive, and how we as a society can support them.
But while I found the content of my studies deeply rewarding, I quickly noticed that university life can be especially difficult for students with mental health challenges. Strict attendance policies, the Binding Study Advice (BSA) system, and the pace of academic life can make it harder to keep up. In my own first year, I didn’t meet the BSA requirement and was fortunate to be granted an extension.
Around me, I heard similar stories from other students. Many shared how the BSA, even with existing support services like student psychologists and academic advisors, increased their stress levels and worsened their symptoms. While these resources are valuable, they don’t always bridge the gap between students’ needs and the structural demands of university life.
That’s why I decided to step forward and take an active role in student representation. This coming year, I will serve as the chair of the University Student Council. Together with my council, I aim to make sure all students are heard, including those who cannot always keep up with the group in the “traditional” way.
For me, the council is not just about policy or meetings, it’s about building a culture where empathy and inclusion are just as important as academic achievement. It’s about ensuring that university regulations support, not punish, students who face extra challenges.
I’m excited for the year ahead, and I’m committed to advocating for a university environment where everyone, regardless of their mental health journey, has the opportunity to succeed.