Elien is the supervisor of traineeships, first-year-papers and master theses.
How did your journey in teaching begin, and what keeps you passionate about it today?
Already as a child, I loved to play with my younger sister where she was the student and I the teacher. My passion is to inspire others, learn them new things and help them to find their own power. I truly find this one of the most rewarding aspects of my job.
What inspired you to pursue a career in research, and what continues to drive your curiosity?
First, I wanted to become a clinical psychologist. After my studies, I realized I could also help others by doing research. Still thankful for this choice.
What continues to drive my curiosity, is still learning so much new stuff, and being able to learn that to others as well.
When you study people and human behavior, what aspects fascinate you the most?
The fact that we will probably never fully understand the human mind and body.
What do you find most rewarding about being in the classroom with students?
That I can make an impact by guiding, coaching and learning others, just (by) being myself.
Looking ahead, what topics or trends in your field are you most excited to explore with students?
The way we look at psychopathology, i.e., not in terms of discrete diagnoses, but rather on a continuum (e.g., psychopathy or not VS. psychopathic traits ranging from absent, a little, a lot, to extremely).
In your view, what makes IDA students stand out from others you’ve taught or worked with?
I feel like these are almost my colleagues.
Can you share a collaborative project with an IDA student that was especially meaningful or exciting to you?
Yes, my very first one with Selim. We are still in contact. Now, he is a postdoc.
And of course also with Lotte, I am now her PhD co-supervisor. A dream that became reality.
What advice would you give future IDA students who want to make the most of the program?
Work hard, but do not forget to enjoy life. You only have 1.
What topics are you currently exploring in your work, and what new areas would you love to dive into in the future?
My focus is on forensic psychology and psychopathology, personality, and personality pathology. However, I am also interested in other trends, such as ‘burn-on’, a construct I recently came across.
Outside of academia, what do you enjoy doing to recharge or spark creativity? (e.g., hobbies)
I love dancing and travelling, exploring new places and meet my friends.
Is there anything else you would like to share? This can also be something personal e.g. a motto.
My motto is: step by step.
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