Get to know Eva Schuurmans!

When did you do the IDA master?

2023-2025

How was the IDA Master helpful for what you are doing right now?

IDA contributed not only to the development of my theoretical and methodological skills (e.g., mixed-method study designs), but also to strengthening my professional attitude and networking abilities throughout the master’s program. I now apply these skills in my role as a junior researcher.

What was your favorite course? And why?

My favorite courses of the program were the internal traineeships. The traineeships helped me grow as a researcher by learning from experts and expanding my knowledge on different methodologies and skills. They also gave me the opportunity to apply these in practice, tailored to my interests.

What was your favorite moment of the time as an IDA student?

I don’t have one specific favorite moment, but the time spent in between classes stands out the most. Spending time over coffee or lunch with fellow IDA students, or collaborating on assignments together, truly made my studies special.

What was your motivation to finish your studies?

Before starting the master’s program, I was unsure whether a career in academia suited me or if I would enjoy working as a forensic psychologist more. For this reason, I chose to combine both tracks. However, during IDA I discovered that research was in fact my preference, which motivated me to complete the master’s and confirmed my ambition to pursue a career in academia.

Did you experience stress or pressure in your studies, and if yes how did you deal with it?

Yes, I experienced a lot of stress and self-proclaimed pressure. Everyone in the program is very smart and ambitious, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, if you focus on doing your best, you will realize that you are capable of more than you initially thought. It also helped me to talk about this with fellow students, as everyone is going through the same thing.

What can you advise current or future IDA students?

Don’t forget to pause ever now and then to reflect on how far you’ve come and all that you’ve accomplished. And most importantly, enjoy the journey. Before you know it, you’ll be at the IDA graduation and you will probably miss this time more than you expect.

How was your overall experience in the master?

Although the program could be quite challenging at times, I wouldn’t have wanted to miss it for the world. I learned so much in a safe and supportive environment, surrounded by people who truly helped me grow.

What did you do in your international traineeship and how did you like it?

For the international traineeship, I attended the Division of Health Psychology Annual Conference in Cardiff together with other IDA students. Although it was not my first conference, attending one abroad was a particularly valuable learning experience. I gained insights into how to effectively set up a research presentation and further developed my networking skills. Additionally, I really enjoyed exploring the city in our free time.

Are you still in touch with other alumni students?

I am still in touch with several alumni students from my cohort. Although it can be difficult to find time to meet, as we saw each other so frequently during IDA, we still make sure to see each other regularly. I formed friendships for life during the master’s program.

How did you experience the relationship with your teachers?

The close relationship with teachers is one of the aspects that makes this program so special. Because of the small cohort, there is a lot of room to interact with teachers. They go above and beyond to support the students and are open to collaborating on fun and meaningful traineeship projects.

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?

At the start of the program, I was unsure whether I wanted to pursue a career in academia or as a psychologist. Throughout the program, I discovered that I am most drawn to academia and to conducting research focused in forensic psychology, particularly focused on crime prevention and interventions. This combination feels like the perfect fit, which I now get to apply in my role as a junior researcher.