When did you do the IDA master?
2022-24
How was the IDA Master helpful for what you are doing right now?
I am currently pursuing my PhD, and I could not have thought of a better preparatory program for it than IDA research masters.
What was your favorite course? And why?
Individual Differences at work!
With my background in work psychology and interest in research, I found the course to be a perfect blend of theory and practice. The small class size made it highly interactive, with engaging discussions and activities that helped me apply psychological principles to real-world workplace challenges, enhancing both employee well-being and organizational success. It also built the foundation for my masters thesis and eventually for my PhD.
What was your favorite moment of the time as an IDA student?
My favorite time as an IDA student would be the moments spent with my friends—whether it was planned social events like informal drinks, BBQs, or Christmas mingles, or smaller, more spontaneous gatherings like study sessions after classes. These moments not only strengthened our bonds but also created a supportive and enjoyable environment throughout the program.
What was your motivation to finish your studies ?
I had joined the Research Masters with my eyes set on the prize – a PhD. I love academic life, especially teaching, and I knew that obtaining a PhD was essential to becoming eligible for a faculty position. The prospect of contributing to knowledge, guiding future students, and pursuing research that could make an impact kept me motivated throughout my studies.
Did you experience stress or pressure in your studies, and if yes how did you deal with it?
Yes, it was a very intensive course, so it did come with its share of stress. Unlike a regular master’s, it was much more self-paced, with six research projects to complete over two years. We were responsible for choosing our own topics, finding supervisors, and managing our schedules, all while balancing some intensive coursework. It could get overwhelming at times, but keeping my eyes on the prize and having a supportive environment—both from friends and faculty—really helped me stay focused and manage the pressure.
What can you advise current or future IDA students?
That I acknowledge its a challenging program but keep your cool. Its just handling one thing at a time and in case you feel yourself getting off-track, reach out for help as soon as possible.
How was your overall experience in the master?
My overall experience in the master’s program was incredibly rewarding. I loved the challenging environment, which pushed me to grow both academically and personally. The rigorous coursework and research demands were intense, but they were more than compensated for by the strong support we received from the faculty. Their guidance, combined with the collaborative atmosphere among peers, made it a truly enriching experience.
What did you do in your international traineeship and how did you like it?
For my international traineeship, I went to Berlin with a couple of friends to present our research at a conference. I chose to present my final year project (FYP) and received fantastic feedback, which was really encouraging. I had found the conference while searching for opportunities to showcase my work, and it turned out to be a great platform for networking. Aside from the academic aspect, I also had the chance to explore Berlin, which made the experience even more memorable!
Are you still in touch with other alumni students?
Yes, I’m still in touch with some alumni, especially those who also chose to work at Tilburg University, as we are now colleagues. There are also yearly alumni events, which provide a great platform for reconnecting and staying updated with each other’s journeys. Additionally, among those who have moved to different parts of the world, I’m still in contact with some IDA alumni from my immediate senior batch.
How did you experience the relationship with your teachers?
At IDA, we were encouraged to interact with our teachers as colleagues rather than just students. We were given the freedom to take ownership of our courses, which fostered a more collaborative and open relationship. This approach made the learning experience more engaging, as teachers were not only mentors but also partners in our academic journey. It created an environment where we could freely discuss ideas, ask questions, and receive personalized feedback, which really enhanced my overall experience.
Did you know from the beginning what you want to do after your master? How did you find out what you would like to do?
Yes, I was sure that I wanted to do PhD. I have always dreamed of an academic life.
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