“We look at the present through a rear-view mirror.
10
University College Utrecht | 10 year anniversary
:: 01 Preface :: 02 Cartoon Jan Veldhuis :: 03 Timeline :: 06 Enriching our city :: 07 History of the UCU campus :: 09 A special part of Utrecht University :: 12 The deans spill the beans :: 16 Accreditation :: 17 Curriculum innovation :: 23 Facts & figures :: 27 Serving the community :: 30 UCSA :: 31 ASIC :: 33 A platform for student initiative :: 36 Fraternities & sororities :: 37 Inside the gates – outside the gates :: 40 How international is UCU? :: 41 Poem of some sorts :: 43 Celebrating the year round :: 48 Not your ordinary alumni :: 51 Life after UCU Facing page / Saskia Westhof Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
Preface :: by Rob van der Vaart dean UCU
What this lustrum year significantly shows me is the vibrancy of our UCU community. After ten years, our community has not become lazy, uninvolved, or boringly ‘consolidated’. This lustrum book is just one element of proof that many members of our community work together to produce interesting results. It is not just this book and the effort put into it, which clearly show widely shared involvement. This year’s academic conference, festival, scholarship diner, plethora of academic and non-academic events organized by students, community outreach activities: they all show dedication and commitment to invest effort in our community, to do things that benefit all, to contribute to the community. A community of students, staff and faculty can only flourish in this spirit of commitment, and in an atmosphere of mutual respect, mutual learning, openness to initiative, and a common sense of purpose. This book clearly demonstrates that these qualities are very much alive at University College Utrecht. I hope and expect that our common sense of purpose will be further strengthened by the process of developing a UCU Strategic Plan for the coming years, a process in which many members of our community are involved right now, during the Spring of 2009. This common sense of direction, the fuelling of our community by a spirit of openness and involvement, and a shared focus on high academic quality will be the best guarantees for continued success on our road to the third lustrum in 2013-2014. 1
Photo by: Giulia Binon
01
UCU ten year anniversary | Preface
teacher quotes
“Become your own Carrot” Christel Lutz / psychology instructor
Jan Veldhuis, well-known opponent of UCU and chair of Utrecht University’s executive board in 1998, is invited to speak at UCU’s official opening.
image: Published in U-Blad, September 3rd, 1998. Artist: Niels Bongers
Cartoon Jan Veldhuis | UCU ten year anniversary
02
Timeline :: 1996 / a small team headed
May 2000 / University College
by first Dean Hans Adriaansens
Alumni Association is created
starts preparations for a small scale international college in Utrecht
August 1998 /
2000 / Student housing
start of the first
April 1999 /
academic year
College Bar opens
‘The Wall’ is completed
Spring 1998 /
June 1999 /
even before the
first UCU
May 2000 / the
official opening the
merchandise
first 17 students,
college newspaper,
April 1999 /
Boomerang, is
University College
established
Student Association is founded
January 23rd 1998 /
enrolled in
appears
the 2 year
2000 / All Students
program,
Interest Council is
graduate UCU
founded
Kromhout terrain is officially bought from the military
2000 / the military donates an entrance arc to the college
teacher quotes
“Generally, it was the Roman Army, namely the legions, as it were, that conquered the northern region.” Jeroen Bons / classics instructor
03
April 10th 2007 / June 2004 / scientist
UCU alumnus wins
Ronald Plasterk (current
Vliegenthart thesis
Minister of Education)
October 2008 / Elsevier
award
publishes an article in
rates UCU as best bachelor
which he refers to UCU
program in the Netherlands
as a kindergarten for rich kids, causing at least one applicant to cancel
August 2008 / second lustrum
May 2001 / first official
August 29th
graduation: 110 students
2008 / parting
graduate from the 3 year
Dean Hans van
program
2003 /
Himbergen opens
first lustrum
meditation center
February 1st,
August 2008 /
2004 / Hans
Rob van der Vaart
2003 /
Van Himbergen
is appointed as
Willem Albert
installed as
Dean of UCU
Wagenaar
Dean
becomes Dean
September 2nd 2008 / January 12th 2006 / UCU
UCU alumna wins first UU
appears in New York Times
Master's thesis award
November 6th 2002 / Princess Maxima visits UCU
November 2007 / UCU is officially accredited by the ministry of education, and receives two special distinctions: the program is labeled ‘excellent’ on the achieved level and success rate of students
Timeline | UCU ten year anniversary
04
by A. Wolfsen LL.M mayor of Utrecht
Enriching our city ::
Maybe I told you before about James Boswell, our most famous foreign student. In 1763 the 22 year old Scotsman arrived in Utrecht to study law. This was useful to him because Scottish law was, like ours in those days but unlike English, based on Roman law. With his servant, James Boswell rented sumptuous lodgings in a hotel, quite on a par with his social status. He moved in the city's highest circles, to which also belonged the young Belle van Zuylen. He tried to learn Dutch, but rather half-heartedly, and his contribution to city life remained limited. He was one of the few hundred Utrecht University students, of whom just a very small group were foreigners. In the 18th century, on average fewer than five foreign students annually graduated in Utrecht. All in all, the role of foreign students remained marginal. They were a tiny sub-group within an already small, elitist community. Society has changed since. The population of Utrecht boasts more than
Facing page / Charlotte Champion Language: English Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
170 nationalities. This is reflected in our student population, although Dutch students of non-western descent are - alas - still relatively scarce. Luckily, the high scientific level of our university, which is generally considered as the country's best, attracts many foreign students.
Photo by: Keke Keukelaar
UCU has asked me before about the possible role of foreign students in our city. I responded with a quite practical list of creative ideas, performed by Utrecht students. A list which hasn't - so I have been informed - failed to inspire. The other way around, I also learned some excellent ideas from the UCU students themselves. But quite apart from that, already by being yourself, by radiating your own country's habits and culture, and in the meanwhile by - unlike James Boswell - getting really involved in our city life, by showing interest in Dutch culture and maybe by learning Dutch, you already enrich our city in a most pleasant manner. By the way - best wishes for your second quinquennium! 1
Enriching our city | UCU ten year anniversary
06
Origins
theless, in order to enhance the deterrence effect, dead convicts were
University College’s premises are of historical origin. About a century
often hung for an indeterminate period of time in a location outside of
ago, builders were digging an excavation for the big chimney locat-
the Utrecht centre, which was where now our beloved campus stands.
ed next to the W building and discovered the remnants of an old well dating back to the eleventh or twelfth century. Back in the days, UCU
The Kromhout military base
grounds belonged to a monastery called Oudwijk. It is hardly surprising
Built as of 1910 and opened in 1913, the Kromhout kazerne served as
that human bones were found: between 1100 and 1600, Utrecht was
a replacement of the former base of the so called ‘Genie’ troops, the
subject to many battles. During one of these the monastery was set on
Dutch Army Engineer Corps. The military base was named after lieu-
fire and almost completely burned down.
tenant-general Joachim Hendrik Kromhout, an honorable member of the Genie. The immediate surroundings of the base were complete-
Another historical fact concerns the name of the premises on which our
ly different from what they are today, being largely made up of polder
campus is build, simultaneously the name of the FC Utrecht football
landscape or reclaimed land. The Kromme Rijn was mainly used as a
stadium: Galgenwaard. The name is deduced from the Dutch word for
route for transportation. The Wilhelminapark was present and the adja-
gallow: galg. In medieval times, convicts were hanged in the city cen-
cent neighborhoods were under construction. The houses of the Prins
tre: a fact at odds when considering the location of our campus. Never-
Hendriklaan were still non-existent.
History of the UCU campus ::
by Fleur Brunninkhuis class of ‘09
image: Kromhoutkazerne 1975 / from: 75 jaar Kromhoutkazerne / 1988
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image: menukaart feestelijke maaltijd / from: 75 jaar Kromhoutkazerne / 1988
After the Dutch capitulation in 1940, German troops confiscated the military site and allocated it to the Herman Gรถring air landing division. The base served an educational function for German soldiers who were taught the theoretical aspects of military life and accommodated layovers for German troops. Some years after the Second World War had ended the Dutch government realized that modern warfare required the use of motor vehicles. The Dutch army motorised and founded a new department for the maintenance of these motor vehicles: the Technical Service. The birth of this new division forced the Genie to leave their base. Because of a lack of barracks, machineries, and parking spots combined with the successful military trainings offered, new buildings were constructed which changed the appearance of the base completely. HanThe base was quite different from the current UCU campus in several
gars for vehicle maintenance and education erected, as well as extra
respects. The clock tower, academic buildings, College Hall, K and the
living space for the soldiers. These are the typical post-war, low, long
Auditorium were already present. The buildings were used as guard
military buildings which have only been removed recently. Additionally,
post, accommodated soldiers, served educational purposes, provided
old buildings were demolished and new facilities constructed. Building
sport facilities, and lastly functioned as armament storage. Additional
G was built in 1974 and replaced the old canteen. Dining Hall, func-
warehouses were constructed for the purpose of extra storage space
tioning as a common place to eat and relax, substituted the kitchen
and a canteen and bathhouse were in use.
and the old bathhouse in 1985.
The First World War passed relatively peacefully. In 1915, the govern-
A decrease in personnel, reorganization of the Dutch army and the
ment deemed it necessary to call for extra troops which were installed
abolishment of conscription in the beginning of the 1990s lead to
at the base. Considering the development of air traffic, additional ma-
a significantly less occupied Kromhout base. Parts of the Kromhout
terials such as eavesdropping machines and searchlights were sup-
base became available and discussions regarding its new function
plied: the base expanded.
were initiated.
Between 1919 and 1939, the extra land was sold and the base reduced
After ongoing negotiations in 1996, the Utrecht city council voted in fa-
to its previous size. In the second half of the 1930s and with the Sec-
vour of the transformation of the Kromhout kazerne. The former army
ond World War looming, the ministry of war constructed many new mil-
base seemed the perfect location for the realisation of an international
itary bases and expanded existing ones. A total of five new buildings
honors college. The site was bought and renovated by Utrecht Univer-
were added and the Kromhout base expanded again.
sity and became the UCU campus as we know it today. 1
History of the UCU campus | UCU ten year anniversary
08
by Giulia Binon / class of ‘10 & Alisa Kholmovskaya / class of ‘11
A special part of Utrecht University ::
Interview with Yvonne van Rooy,
enced UU. Due to the increased
chair of the UU executive board
interest in such education, a Dutch liberal arts and sciences
Mrs. Van Rooy, in what sense
program has been developed
does UCU differ from UU?
along with five other programs
Though UCU is a very special
that have implemented selection
part of the UU, it is not so much
procedures.
different from it. UCU is a perfect example of the strength of
What are your attitudes
UU in terms of the innovation of
towards UCU?
the Liberal Arts and Sciences pro-
Very positive and grateful. Any-
gram. The creation of such a pro-
time a foreign commission comes
gram was unique because of the
to visit, they seem to be im-
type of education developed, the
pressed by the correlation be-
obligatory residence on campus
tween the high quality of educa-
and the international environ-
tion, the living standards of the
ment students are placed in.
students and the fairly low costs at UCU. Students are motivated
“UCU is sort of a laboratory for a new type of education.”
Has UCU started a new trend in
and ambitious; the future leaders
the Netherlands?
of the world. You are guaranteed
UCU is a sort of laboratory for a
to be successful in the public sec-
are positively engaging Utrecht
dents to be able and open to
new type of education. Today,
tor, government and politics as
University as a whole into a wider
meet people from all over the
many other similar colleges have
those doors are always open for
network of connections. The ex-
world; it enables them to face ev-
or are being created in the Neth-
people with international experi-
change program that was set up
ery challenge later in life. 1
erlands such as in Maastricht,
ence.
at UCU is one unique advantage.
Roosevelt Academy or the one
A major plus for the students is
being developed in Amsterdam.
What do you think about the
the campus situation which cre-
The concept of self-selecting
international advantages of
ates a different climate compared
courses throughout the bach-
UCU?
to the other English programs
elor’s program has greatly influ-
The international features of UCU
at the UU. It is important for stu-
09
UCU ten year anniversary | A special part of Utrecht University
Facing page / Saskia Westhof Language: Dutch Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
The deans spill the beans :: by Lana Askari / class of ‘11 & Giulia Binon / class of ‘10 In any college or university, the dean has a key occupation when it
What makes UCU different from other universities?
comes to academic as well as governance issues. At UCU there is an
Wagenaar: “UCU’s most remarkable feature is its high success rate,
added dimension: the campus, its inhabitants and all social issues that
more than 90% of the students obtain their degrees in exactly three
may arise because of this setup. At UCU, then, the dean bears respon-
years. That may be normal outside the Netherlands; the rate of success
sibility not only for the academic program, but also for the students
of other university programs in our country is only around 60%. Thus
and the campus. And on top of all of this, UCU students have a ten-
the foundation of UCU meant a significant innovation in the Dutch edu-
dency to voice their opinion and participate in all kinds of decision pro-
cational system.”
cesses. One can imagine that presiding over such an enterprise can be
Van der Vaart: “UCU has a residential element which provides a spe-
quite a challenge.
cial atmosphere. It creates focus among the students, they want to put more time and effort into their studies.”
During the ten years of its existence UCU has had four deans. These individuals have, each in their own way, worked at getting the best out
What motivated you to take the position of dean at UCU?
of the college. What is that makes this liberal arts and sciences college
Adriaansens: “It has always been my intention to help universities to
special? The word is to the deans.
reorganise the undergraduate state. Dutch universities were impersonal, inefficient and one-size-fits-all, particularly in the first years of their programs. The liberal arts and sciences college was originally meant to improve Dutch higher education, particularly the first years of it, which
“UCU has become the first university where the quality of education is more important than obtaining a diploma.”
was very necessary.” Wagenaar: “UCU has become in the first place a college in which teachers can do well. That has attracted me to UCU, as a dean, but above all as a teacher. In the Netherlands UCU has become the first university where the quality of education is more important than obtaining a diploma.” Van Himbergen: “We need to give students space to create what they want. Let students be the architects of their own programs.”
Facing page / Max Adrian Language: German Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
What are the advantages of an internationally oriented college? Wagenaar: “The international orientation and the use of English are essential because they tend to stimulate ambition. This applies to students as well as to teachers; or rather: more to teachers than to >
UCU ten year anniversary | The deans spill the beans
12
Photo by: André van Haasteren
Prof. Dr. Hans Adriaansens is founder and first dean of UCU. Currently he is the dean of Roosevelt Academy in Middelburg, and he is busy innovating the Dutch higher education system.
Prof. Dr. Willem A. Wagenaar was the second dean of UCU. He is a psychologist, with expertise in criminal court cases.
students. Students’ study habits are to a large extent induced by their
have been several consistencies, one being the promotion of excel-
teachers’ aspiration levels. If the teachers do not expect students to do
lence. However, it always is a challenge to improve courses and to
well, why would students try to falsify such expectations?”
get the routine out of them. Maintaining a light institution without too
Van der Vaart: “It is not something you immediately might see, but study-
much bureaucracy and a spirit of innovation are also important factors.”
ing here, over the years you create a more global view of the world.”
Van Himbergen: “The spirit of enterprise is the same, it has only become stronger.”
Has UCU changed since its existence? Van der Vaart: “I believe that the initial thoughts of the UCU spirit are
Has UCU set a new trend in (continental) Europe?
still present today, the program has changed in terms of scale over the
Adriaansens: “There’s a high level of interest in the liberal arts and sci-
years, but the basic principles have not altered. Over the years, there
ences concept. UCU has never been a matter of building something
13
Photo by: Sebastiaan Cassé
Photo by: Fred Trappenburg
Prof. Dr. Hans van Himbergen was the third dean of UCU. Currently he coordinates several research projects and represents UU in Europe and America.
Prof. Dr. Rob van der Vaart is the current dean of UCU. He has taught geography at UCU since the beginning.
exclusive. The main theme has always been to improve the level of undergraduate education in our country. That was our major tasks. I am very happy that next to UCU, several others have been established. Im-
“Let students be the architects of their own programs”
itation is the nicest form of flattery and that’s what you’ve been seeing. Maastricht, Middelburg and Amsterdam have already established similar colleges. Universities in Leiden, Leuven and Gent are also consider-
A last word?
ing establishing new liberal arts and sciences colleges. There are also
Adriaansens: “UCU has certainly lived up to my expectations. I think
universities in Sweden wanting to build colleges.”
it’s an asset to the UU and the system of higher education in our coun-
Van Himbergen: “In making students enthusiastic and allowing them to
try. I do hope that the colleges in this country will stay in good comfort
show initiative, we are a leading example.”
with each other because I think we can make a difference.” 1
UCU ten year anniversary | The deans spill the beans
14
teacher quotes
In Dutch high schools a streber – which translates roughly as eager beaver – is often the object of disapproval and bullying. Not so at UCU; excelling is very much at the core of what we aspire to do. We are sup-
A student is asking a long and complicated question. “This is a very good question... let’s have a break!” (question remains unanswered) Jacobijn Olthoff / anthropology instructor
posed to be excellent students, we are expected to get into top schools around the world, and allegedly we work our behinds off the year round. The term excellence appears in every other sentence of the mission statement, strategy plan and promotion leaflet. But, while an admirable intention, how do you validate such a statement?
Accreditation ::
“A stamp of approval, accreditation by an independent body guarantees that the institution offers education and issues degrees that meet a widely recognized level of quality.”
In most of the western world de-
In June 2007 UCU was evaluat-
factory, good and excellent, where
gree programs or educational in-
ed by representatives of a Dutch
excellent is defined as ‘best prac-
two special distinctions in the ar-
stitutes are required to carry ac-
visitation team and their North
tice’, can serve as an international
eas evaluated as excellent. These
creditation. A stamp of approval,
American counterpart. This un-
and national model. In terms of
distinctions are not acquired eas-
accreditation by an independent
precedented and experimental
the results that students achieve,
ily, and ours is the only program
body guarantees that the institu-
committee allowed for a unique
UCU scored excellent on ‘level
with this particular combination.
tion offers education and issues
evaluation of the college; it com-
achieved’ and ‘success rates’. An
degrees that meet a widely rec-
bined expertise of the Dutch
exceptional and unprecedented
The committee also produced a
ognized level of quality. In the
educational system with typically
achievement. Scoring good on
list of recommendations, urging
Netherlands, as in most countries,
American criteria. A useful com-
almost all other items, a default
for progress to be made on those
accreditation is a governmental
bination, as UCU introduced the
satisfactory was awarded when it
items marked as satisfactory. As
responsibility, carried out by the
American liberal arts tradition to
comes to ‘international and inter-
an institute that – to a large de-
Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Or-
the Dutch university arena where
cultural orientation’ and ‘involve-
gree rightfully – thinks of itself as
ganization (NVAO).
disciplinary focus is the standard.
ment of staff, students and the
excellent, we owe it to ourselves
professional field’ in internal qual-
to dot those i’s and cross those
ity assurance.
t’s. 1
The committee evaluated UCU’s Facing page / Alisa Kholmovskaya Language: Russian Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
UCU, but we were also awarded
program on a list of 21 criteria. Each item was marked on a 4
The outcome prompted the
point scale: unsatisfactory, satis-
NVAO to not only fully accredit
Accreditation | UCU ten year anniversary
16
Curriculum Innovation :: A new concept Towards the end of the twentieth century Hans Adriaansens had a vision of a small scale college, in the image of the American Ivy League institutes and British universities like Oxford and Cambridge. A breeding ground for tomorrow’s leaders, this college would embrace as key values ambition and excellence, amidst an educational landscape of conformity and contentment. In 1997 Utrecht University allowed Adriaansens the opportunity to found University College Utrecht, the first
The Dutch are used to higher education that emphasizes disciplinary specialization. You want to become an architect? Go to a technological university. Become a doctor? Go to med-school.
liberal arts & sciences (LAS) program in the Netherlands. A decade later several universities have followed suit and started their own LAS colleges or programs. At the same time, however, misconceptions about the concept are not uncommon. From a Minister of education who referred to UCU as ‘a Harry Potter school’, to selection committees of Master’s programs that ‘do not admit hbo bachelor’s’; the maturation of LAS in continental Europe is far from complete. Most of the time unfamiliarity with the philosophy is the source of these misconceptions. The Dutch are used to higher education that emphasizes disciplinary specialization. You want to become an architect? Go to a technological university. Become a doctor? Go to med-school. The idea that a degree can also reflect a broad base of knowledge and intellectual and social development is new to them. Acceptance, then, should start with understanding. >
did you know...
Did you know that the first UCU brochure was already published before the Kromhout terrain was purchased, and that the ‘students’ in the picture are in truth staff members?
17
UCU ten year anniversary | Curriculum Innovation
Facing page / Krysten Ho-Kang-You Language: Papiamento (Netherlands Antilles) Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
What is liberal arts? “Liberal education is an educational philosophy rather than a body of knowledge, specific courses, or type of institution. By drawing on a broad range of knowledge, it asks students to grapple with complicated, important issues, and usually expects them to learn about at least one subject in greater depth and at an advanced level. Intellectual growth occurs as both broad and deep learning challenge previously held beliefs.” from UCU Educational Philosophy From antiquity through medieval times, in Western thought a classical education was constituted by study of the seven liberal arts. This luxury was only afforded free men; others were confined to professional, or illiberal, education. Gradually the scope expanded to include the visual arts and the natural and social sciences. By the end of the nineteenth century a shift became perceptible: whereas the Anglo-Saxon world continued development of the liberal arts, mainland Europe shifted attention to a strong orientation on research and disciplinary focus.
The seven artes liberales: grammar, dialectic, rhetoric, geometry, arithmetic, astronomy and music. Nowadays liberal arts colleges are a predominantly American phenomenon, denoting undergraduate colleges which emphasize broad knowledge and skills development rather than academic specialization. In the United States a majority of college graduates enters the work market, as opposed to Europe where Doctoral or Master’s degrees are expected. The European LAS programs aim to produce graduates who on the one hand find their way to Master’s programs and PhD research, and on the other hand develop the skills and sensitivities necessary for their professional careers.
19
Liberal arts at UCU Academic skills / Founder Hans Adriaansens used to compare the curriculum to a pie with four equal slices: skills, major core, major enrichment, and minor. The first slice, academic skills, comprised courses like argumentation, statistical research, academic English and foreign languages. These are the courses that everybody has to take, regardless of their major. They are gradually being replaced by majorspecific courses. As such, science students are no longer required to learn research methods employed in the social sciences.
Fried Keesen became head of the Academic Core department and Director of Education at UCU in 2004. True to his belief that skills education must be taught in context, he discontinued the Academic Core as a separate department in 2008. Today Fried Keesen advocates a trend from teaching skills in isolated courses to learning in context. A language requirement, for example, gains more value when it is used within the curriculum. Keesen envisions a sociology course where a student analyses an article in Italian, thereby satisfying the foreign language requirement. “This way students acquire skills in context, rather than learning isolated tricks which are easily forgotten.� The China program exemplifies such a future. Students take a course in Chinese language and culture, after which they go abroad for a semester to Xiamen University. As such the language is learnt in a context, making it applicable and part of the curriculum. The development of skills accumulates in the research project, where the student independently puts all the acquired knowledge and skills into practice, resulting in a sizeable academic paper. >
UCU ten year anniversary | Curriculum Innovation
20
Major / When UCU started, the curriculum had to be designed from
year. Cognitive neuroscience, a highly interdisciplinary field, frequently
scratch. It was a good opportunity to launch ideas. The result was a dy-
takes in UCU graduates as well.
namic and interesting collection of courses, but this process inevitably had its effects on the perceived coherence of the program. A 200 level
Interdisciplinarity / By combining traditionally distinct academic fields,
course, for example, did not always build on the content of the preced-
students are stimulated to view topics from different perspectives, thus
ing 100 level course. Keesen: “Gradually we have attempted to bring
demanding and fostering mutual understanding and creativity. But how
more structure in the curriculum. Graduate programs require a degree
is theory put into practice in the UCU curriculum?
of knowledge in their respective fields, and we have a responsibility to prepare our students to meet these requirements.”
One way is to develop courses that touch on different academic disciplines. Cognitive neuroscience for example, combines neurobiology
In the early days, some UCU graduates did experience problems en-
(science), psychology (social science) and linguistics (humanities). The
tering Master’s programs at Dutch universities. They were encour-
humanities course museum studies similarly covers anthropology and
aged to report this at UCU, which would take the issue higher up.
scientific collections.
Although their number decreases with the years, two incidents nevertheless occurred last year. One UC student who graduated cum
But one can also think of a thematic approach. The Africa program is a
laude was denied entry into econometrics both in Amsterdam and
good example. In this program students take a summer course in de-
Tilburg. After intervention of the UU Executive Board she was ac-
velopment at UCU, after which they go to Africa as a group for a field
cepted at both institutes, and is now doing great among her peers.
course. Next they split up to do individual internships. The science ap-
Another highly qualified graduate was barred from veterinary sci-
proach ranges from white energy to farming and wildlife preservation,
ence. Partially as a result from this incident, the faculty of veterinary
whereas the social science approach might tackle sustainable tourism
science is now working on a fast-track program open to non-veter-
or economic systems. Humanities students, in turn, focus on art, gen-
inary undergraduates. The student, meanwhile, is in Belgium, do-
der studies or journalism. But by working in a group each student is
ing… veterinary science.
confronted with all these different perspectives, while at the same time bearing in mind the common aim of development.
Conversely, there are more and more graduate programs that love to welcome UCU students. Summa, the medical research Master’s at UU
A very recent development, in which Keesen is heavily involved, is the
for example, filled 16 of 40 available places with UCU students last
Sirius program. Highly qualified students (GPA >3.5) design a course on an interdisciplinary theme (this year’s theme is evolution) which they believe is missing from the curriculum. Under the supervision of a senior faculty member these students simultaneously develop and take
Facing page / Timor Faber Language: Hebrew (Israel) Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
this course. The semester after, the course will be introduced as a regular UC course and is up for grabs to all students who are interested. Combining ambition, curiosity and independence, the Sirius course is a miniature embodiment of the liberal arts philosophy. 1
Curriculum Innovation | UCU ten year anniversary
22
Facts & figures :: Evaluation and ranking of program / The 2008 Academic Ranking of World Universities conducted by
UCU is fully accredited and internationally evaluated as ‘excellent’ on
Shanghai University rates Utrecht University as the best Dutch and 9th
‘level achieved’ and ‘quality of education’ by a joint commission con-
best European University. The research focused Shanghai ranking is an
sisting of a council from QANU - an independent assessor of higher ed-
influential index of universities worldwide.
ucation programs in Holland - and delegates from the American Higher Learning Commission.
In the 2008 issue of Elsevier magazine’s extensive survey among Dutch institutes of higher education, students rate UCU and Roosevelt Academy as the best undergraduate programs in the country.
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Staff & Faculty / The UCU faculty comprises 130 lecturers, 14 fellows, 21 tutors and 17 members of staff.
teacher quotes
“Every one of you should work in a factory by an assembly line for a while. It is indeed a very enlightening experience and you will learn to understand why you study and why you are the chosen ones.” Longina Jakobowska / anthropology instructor
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UCU ten year anniversary | Facts & figures
190
3
89 %
29% / stu dy a
U tU
8%
Where do UCU graduates go? /
No f
11 es
89% of UCU graduates choose to do another study program. Of this
Studi
aster’s prog 82% / M ram
he urt r
%
gram pro dy u t s er th no a /
group 7% enrols in another Bachelor’s program, 82% in a Master’s program and 15% in a PhD research position.
broad udy a / st
6%
38% of UCU graduates do so abroad. The most popular universities are
5% 5% 3%
6%
Cambridge (5%) and London School of Economics (5%).
3%
5%
5%
29% of UCU graduates go to Utrecht University: elor
Bach 7%
univers
itie s
33%
resear
15%
/o
s
D
% / Ph 15
ch dut er th
Medicine:
8%
Science:
6%
Humanities:
5%
Law, Economics & Governance:
5%
Geosciences:
3%
Social & Behavioral Sciences:
3%
ch
The remaining 33% of UCU graduates go to other universities in the Netherlands.
10mm = 10%
G.P.A. distribution / UCU graduates achieve the following grade
10mm = 10%
point average, on a scale from 1 to 4: summa cum laude (3.90 – 4.00)
9%
magna cum laude (3.80 – 3.89)
7%
cum laude (3.50 – 3.79)
34%
with honors (3.00 – 3.49)
34%
no distinction (2.00 – 2.99)
16% 99
2.
49
3.
79
3.
89
3.
00
4.
0
.0
-2
0
.0
-3
0
.5
-3
0
.8
-3
0
.9
-3
24
Semester Abroad Approximately 50% of UCU students take part in an exchange program to spend a semester abroad. The most popular desti-
1. Australia
When the nationalities of all students past and present are colored in
2. United States
on a map, the following pictures appears:
3. China 4. United Kingdom
nations are:
10mm = 10%
Student body composition UCU currently numbers 673 students representing 55 countries (excluding visiting students).
Nationalities:
1 / complete the program
85% of the students who start
Dutch
at UCU complete the pro-
7%
Double nationality
gram (national average: 46%),
2%
US
1%
Canadian
3%
Asian
1%
African
1%
Eastern-European
2%
British
2%
French
4%
German
1%
Scandinavian
12%
Other
76% of whom finish within 3 years (national average: 26%).
2 / national
1 / UCU
64%
20 mm = 100%
did you know...
Did you know that founder Hans Adriaansens always planned important events on his own birthday?
25
Efficiency
2 / finish within 3 years
UCU ten year anniversary | Facts & figures
Facing page / Neha Rao Language: Hindi (India) Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
Serving the community :: by Michael Price
Community service has long been an integral part of the liberal arts and
student life officer
sciences educational tradition, as colleges strive to not only give back to the communities in which they are located, but also to use these opportunities as learning experiences for their students as they grow in their education to become responsible members of society. By engaging with and participating in the surrounding community, students prepare themselves to take on a greater role in society as they move further along their career paths, as well as learn the reward of supporting the community for the greater good. Continuing with this tradition of liberal arts and sciences institutions, University College students are also actively engaged in their surrounding community and have been involved in community service as individuals, as part of campus committees, and as part of a broader initiative by the college to provide students with the opportunity to contribute to the greater Utrecht community. The popular and widely supported annual Charity Ball raises funds for a local cause every year through ticket sales for the ball. This year, the IMC Weekend School was the chosen beneficiary, and students were not only
teacher quotes
“This blackboard here could serve as vacuum cleaner if it was somehow starting to suck in dust.� Rob van Gerwen / philosophy instructor
able to support the project through buying a ticket, but were able to volunteer their time to help tutor local middle school students during weekend teaching sessions held on the UCU campus. This year, UCU students have reached out into the Utrecht community to share their talents and skills for the benefit of others by working with local vocational school students. This is being done together with the Anglia English Language Network to help students at the Centraal College middle and high schools in Utrecht improve their English skills. This initia-
27
UCU ten year anniversary | Serving the community
did you know...
Did you know that on Queen’s Day in 1999 the army veterans wanted to celebrate the festivities on their former military base, and as such held a parade on the campus grounds, after which the students were invited to drink ‘oranjebitter’ (orange liquor) at 10 in the morning?
tive is being developed with the intention of becoming a long-term sus-
The UCU Humanitarian Committee has been very active in supporting in-
tainable partnership with Centraal College, Anglia, and UCU, providing
ternational causes for several years. Every semester, HumCo raises mon-
high school students with opportunities they otherwise would not have,
ey to support a chosen cause. For example, in Spring 2009 they are rais-
and allowing our students to make a difference in the local communi-
ing money to support the Tabitha Foundation in Cambodia, a non-profit
ty. The response from Centraal College students during the pilot period
organization which assists poor families in Cambodia through a housing
this year was very positive, and the international composition of our par-
construction program and by providing micro-credit for cottage indus-
ticipating students gives the Centraal students exposure to people and
tries. Other past targets of HumCo include providing funding for children
places they otherwise would not have the opportunity to encounter. It
in Guatemala City through the Safe Passage organization, contributing to
is hoped that this partnership will continue to the benefit of all involved,
a refugee school in Myanmar, and donating to the Kawempe Youth Cen-
and that our students will facilitate growth and opportunity for the young
ter library in Uganda. These types of fundraising activities engage UCU
people with whom they are working.
students with the broader world and prepare them for entering public service after their time here by familiarizing them with how international
UCU students volunteer their time on an individual basis by volunteering
charities and NGOs function.
with public service organizations like the Red Cross or Salvation Army, or volunteering internationally to work for a variety of international Non-
It can be seen that UCU students are active and engaged in their sur-
Governmental Organizations. Other students have organized tutorial
rounding community and the broader world through their actions. Stu-
sessions for minority and immigrant high school students. After learning
dents do this on their own initiative to become involved in a way that
that high school students who are ethnic minorities or children of im-
makes a difference in the lives of others. This type of community service
migrants are considered as being at risk of not performing to their po-
provides students with an experience which compliments the liberal arts
tential, students who have their own business tutoring students started
and sciences education provided by UCU, allowing the students here
weekend sessions to tutor these students for free.
to broaden not only their intellectual horizons, but also to broaden their knowledge and understanding of others as they learn and grow. 1
Another area of community service activities that a number of our students are involved in is fundraising for charitable causes. An ambitious student initiative currently taking place is the Cultural Cookery project. Students will work together with the Happitaria organization to set up and operate a restaurant in Utrecht. Chefs and students donate their time and work together to provide good food with the proceeds being donated to development projects in India, Sudan and Uganda.
28
1998
1999
2001
2000
2002
University College Student Association :: by Charlotte Champion
The University College Student
responsibility very seriously.
gap between University College
Class of ‘09
Association (UCSA) has
Although the board may not
and Utrecht University students
existed since the creation of
always represent the student
by encouraging students to go
University College itself and is
body demographically, they
into town and see what other
a fundamental part of the social
nevertheless believe that they
organizations have to offer.
atmosphere on the campus.
are capable of representing all
Each year a board is elected
the different cultures that come
Being a member of the UCSA
by students to represent their
together at University College.
board is a time consuming
interests for a whole academic
“Whether you are Dutch or
occupation. This lustrum year
year. The UCSA carries out
foreign, man or woman doesn’t
has caused added pressure in
a variety of tasks and events
affect whether you can represent
the form of new events. And
each year, among which the
a different culture – you don’t
members face additional college
introduction week. During
think from your own sex or
fees because they have to
this week new students are
nationality; that is not what
take an extra semester worth
introduced to both on and off
the board is for. The campus is
of course work. But none of
campus life, meeting their fellow
a mixture of different groups
them regret making this small
students, learning about dining
and the board must reflect that
sacrifice. “It is a wonderful
hall, and of course partying
idea.”
experience, because you are not
“The campus is a mixture of different groups and the board must reflect that idea”
together.
Facing page / Photos of Introduction Week, 1998 - 2002
UCSA | UCU ten year anniversary
only in a position in which you Although UCSA has already
represent the students but also
UCSA’s tasks are not limited to
accomplished many things
in which you see how motivated
managing events for the first two
such as the festival, the
the students are. There are so
weeks of the academic year; the
beach party, and the charity
many opportunities to engage
association acts as an umbrella
ball, there is always room for
in organization and discussion.
for everything related to keeping
continuous improvement. An
It’s always a challenge being in
students socially engaged
example of this is an improved
a board with six different people
outside the field of academics.
relationship with sister colleges
who each have six different
The board members themselves
like Roosevelt Academy in
opinions. However, it opens up
are very proud to have been
Middelburg and University
your eyes and makes you see
chosen to represent the interests
College Maastricht. UCSA
that there is more to the world
of their peers and take this
would also like to bridge the
than your own opinion.” 1
30
All Student Interest Council :: The All Students Interest Council
council which allows ASIC to rep-
dents. With tuition fees rising,
by Jolien Buijs
(ASIC) was originally an organ of
resent the students in academic
that will prove quite a challenge.
Class of ‘10
the UCSA, but they broke away
affairs. The college council has
after three years to become an
worked closely together with the
For the near future ASIC has
independent organization that
academic staff to improve course
many plans for the campus it-
represents student interests in
content and grading measures.
self; wireless internet on campus
matters concerning academic
The abolishment of grading on
and remodeling Dining Hall and
and domestic life.
the curve is an example.
the sport centre are just a few. In addition to this, there are plans
ASIC has achieved several ac-
Since ASIC is an independent
for a campus café and lounges
complishments that may be seen
body it relies heavily on student
in the academic buildings. Fur-
as small, but that have neverthe-
activity and commitment in par-
thermore, ASIC hopes to cre-
less been very important for im-
ticipating in questionnaires, peti-
ate more awareness concerning
proving the quality of campus
tions, and the Agora, a platform
Master’s programs.
life. Among these are the book
that gives students the opportu-
sales held at the beginning of
nity to discuss the matters that
The members believe that
each semester which take an
concern them.
there is always something that
enormous load off the students’
can be improved. “ASIC will
shoulders. Additionally, ASIC
ASIC’s ambitions are not con-
have its eyes focused on the
provides several facilities such as
fined to campus life; they also
school but also on how the
the rental of bikes, ovens, and
aim to help maintaining UCU’s
school can become better. All
vacuum cleaners. A major accom-
reputation as an honors college,
ASIC members like to leave
plishment is their involvement in
while at the same time uphold-
thinking that they have accom-
the establishment of the college
ing its accessibility to all stu-
plished something.” 1
teacher quotes
“Beauty is something that touches you, not necessarily in a positive way though. I can think of numerous examples of very repulsive things that I find truly beautiful.” Suzan Lemont / performing arts instructor
31
“The members believe that there is always something that can be improved”
UCU ten year anniversary | ASIC
Facing page / Photos of Introduction Week, 2003 - 2008
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
by Ivar van Hasselt UCSA Chair 2008-2009
Committees / A platform for student initiative ::
Although only few people might realize this during their time on campus,
positively at the famous Party Nights and the liquid gold called Grolsch.
the committee system of the UCSA really is unique and knows hardly any
Moreover, right from the start onwards, the Drama Committee has en-
equivalents in the Netherlands or abroad. Together, the activities of over
tertained campus with its diverse performances, the Sports Commit-
thirty committees on campus combine creative, cultural, academic and
tee has offered a wide variety of physical activities and the Boomerang
social activities all under the header of one association. This might be
has facilitated a platform where students can publicize their stories. In
taken for granted by many, but honestly, try to list one other association
the years that followed, the quality of already existing events increased
that combines committees such as dance, drama and choir, with lectures,
while simultaneously many new committees developed and expanded
debate tournaments, a student newspaper and even a very own bar. Uni-
the diversity of the committee system. Today, just to name a few, the
versity College Utrecht therefore not only offers a highly challenging aca-
Humanitarian Committee has already raised tons for charity, the Debate
demic program, but also a diverse and intensive social life. As has been
Committee has organized several debate tournaments and the Poli-
stated in many introduction week speeches, including my own, “UC is
tics Committee has introduced our Auditorium to a wide variety of well-
not only about studying”, and it shows!
known figures.
The development of the committee system started the very way every-
Apart from this all, a lot can be said about the dynamic nature of the
thing on this campus was set up: covered in mud. After UCU’s first se-
committee system and the endless possibilities for creative and innova-
mester had experienced the birth of all kinds of committees, it became
tive ideas. During its ten years of existence, the UCSA has known various
clear to many members that, in order to keep all these social initiatives
specific committees set up by a small group of motivated members. Of-
organized and coordinated, a unified association was to be founded.
ten, these committees have been around for just a short period of time
And so it happened; the UCSA was born and the first board was elect-
and the UCSA has therefore become a very dynamic organization with
ed. Ever since, the number of committees has grown, the quality has in-
different committees reflecting the interests of its current members each
creased and the diversity has been further developed. Although the term
year. The Hug Committee, for instance, was established in 2004 and
“UCSA” is often used to identify the six people elected for Board in that
aimed to spread love through campus by choosing a new “huggee” ev-
particular year, the reality is quite different. Rather, I would like the UC-
ery week. Being one of the low-budget committees, it unfortunately died
SA to stand for all those that create the social diversity on campus; the
in 2007. Other examples are Paparazzi, Philosophy and Poetry; all no lon-
members of committees and teams and its audience.
ger alive, but if anyone knows CPR?
Over the years, the association has witnessed a steady increase in strong,
Ten years of committees, naturally, do not go without any controversy
active committees which have proven to be a solid basis of social life on
or debate. The usual critical remarks and questions at General Assem-
campus. The Bar, as an example of one of the first committees, has been
blies have always been around and to me this only illustrates the es-
responsible for a large part of the unique social life of UCU ever since
sential involvement of students in the committee system. Also outside
its existence. I believe there are few UCU students who don’t look back
the formal setting of GA’s, there are plenty of controversial, difficult and
33
UCU ten year anniversary | A platform for student initiative
sometimes even funny issues that have arisen within our community. From food fights in Dining Hall during Sinterklaas celebrations resulting in strict supervision of the event by the Dean the years after, to a petition making the UCSA College Bar smoke free: both caused heated debates
“The Hug Committee, for instance, was established in 2004 and aimed to spread love through campus”
and eventually compromised according to the Dutch “polder” model.
in the current structure. In the end, we should not forget the reason why
And from extensive discussions over the all student email list addressing
the UCSA was founded in the first place: to end a scattered and uncoor-
whether it should be possible to hire a stripper at the Beach Party, to a
dinated system and to introduce structure and continuity.
sudden public resistance against the elitist character of Prom, leading to the creation of the innovative concept “Charity Ball” the year after. Even
Whether it is the creative minds of the students, the fact that everyone
though it is just a very small selection, it is sufficient to illustrate my main
lives on the same campus or something completely different, the diver-
point: UCU students have an opinion they are not afraid to voice! The in-
sity of student initiatives seems to increase endlessly. Last year’s board,
teresting consequence of this feature is, again, the dynamic and unique
by introducing three main committee groups – lecture, social and arts
nature of our association.
– took an important step in structuring the dispersed assembly of committees. Although various joint committee events proof the effectiveness
The quality and quantity of the UCU committees and events raises the
of this system, it can fortunately still not prevent the creation of several
question which concerns the extent to which different committees can
new committees to happen. It seems that as long as new students come
claim autonomy and independence. Despite the efforts of many UCSA
to UCU, the diversity of student initiatives will continue to increase. The
Boards to create enough space for creativity and freedom, some com-
number and composition of committees therefore remains dynamic. Is
mittee members have indicated to feel limited by the current structure.
this problematic? Not really: it merely shows the unique nature of our as-
This is regrettable and understandable at the same time. Admittedly,
sociation and the space and flexibility it offers to student input. And so
the relative success of non-UCSA organizations such as EBS and SIFE,
it should. Allowing for new initiatives while simultaneously providing the
seem to suggest that for some initiatives the UCSA structure might sim-
necessary continuity and structure will remain a constant challenge for
ply not be the best option. Nevertheless, looking at the overall quality
UCSA boards. Even though we have witnessed an increase in structure,
and quantity of UCSA Committee events, it would seem safe to conclude
organization and professionalism over the past ten years, we are not
that the overwhelming majority of committees seem to fit very well with-
quite there yet. 1
34
Fraternities & sororities :: by Alisa Kholmovskaya
PRIMUS, established in 1998, was the first fraternity on campus and
class of ‘11
celebrates their tenth anniversary this year. They distinguish themselves as a fraternity with an international perspective; English is the official lan-
To those not acquainted with UCU it may comes as a surprise that the
guage and members come from many different countries. Current Pri-
campus is home to no fewer than five fraternities and sororities. Some
mus board member Fritz Streiff claims that Primus' social role on campus
may feel that such communities are not needed on campus, because
is to provide and organise open events for everyone, both on and off
UCU itself is a community already. Others regard them as exclusive clubs.
campus.
At the same time, it is a human trait to bond with people who have similar likes and dislikes. And they contribute to the community as well: by
The origin of EQUITES goes back to the second year of UCU histo-
organizing social events targeted at a larger audience they play a role
ry. That is when twelve Dutch students decided to form a fraternity that
in bringing people together. Once graduated members typically remain
would promote ‘companionship, pleasure, and intellect’. In many ways
tight. A quick glance over UCU’s Greeks:
similar to traditional Dutch students ‘corps’, Equites is especially well known for its strong alumni-network.
What is a fratority without an image? Some persistent prejudices…
Sorority LUNA was established in September 2002. Claiming to contribute to making UCU a lifetime experience, Luna organises social events such as Valentine's Dinner, drinks and more. In the near future they are
> All Equites members’ dads own yachts > Primus members are drunken buffoons > Salad is known as ‘broodje Allure’ > All Luna members do is drink tea > Nobody knows who Felix are, or what they do
throwing a big party for the entire UCU community.
ALLURE, the second sorority, was founded in 2003. There are many stereotypes about this community: many believe that members are exclusively pretty blonde Dutch girls. But this is not always the case. In fact, the language spoken is English, and quite a few non-Dutch girls joined recently (even brunettes!). Activities include a vintage sale and their own lustrum party.
FELIX – the only fratority – was established in 2007. Their original idea Facing page / Promise Mkwananzi Language: Shona (Zimbabwe) Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
is inclusive, rather than exclusive – there would be no requirements. Goal was to form a group of friends to have a good time with. Some people believe that Felix does not exist anymore; this, however, is not true. Felix has been ‘providing the opportunity for students of any year or gender to join a fun group of people and get involved in social life on campus.’ 1
Fraternities & sororities | UCU ten year anniversary
36
Inside the gates outside the gates :: by Anouk van der Laan
yond. In the last two years the
tifully caught in the old saying:
class of ‘10
response of Utrecht students to
‘Doe maar gewoon, dan doe je al
my ‘UCU-ness’ has changed from
gek genoeg’. (Be normal, that is
People often like to remind us of
the flattering ‘Wow you must be
crazy enough). Dutch culture has
the fact that we as UC students
smart’ to the slightly more insult-
an ingrained dislike of those who
do not take enough effort to get
ing ‘You’re not studying - that’s
stand out, and strangely enough
to know life outside of the gates.
just advanced high school!’. I ad-
this dislike is mainly focused
But to be quite honest, it is not
mit, our tutors might be there
on being better than someone
as if life outside the gates is tak-
to assist us from time to time by
else. Due to our deeply protes-
ing much effort to get to know us
holding our hand a little bit here
tant background wanting to be
either. Sadly most of the country,
and there, and small classes and
better in education is simply not
and even most of our ‘own’ city
class discussions might help the
accepted, and UC is seen as a
of Utrecht does not know that we
high school image, but the as-
community of people striving
exist. And if they do - well let’s
sociation of personal attention
to be better than the rest – by
just state they do not always have
with lack of education is a quite
which we deeply insult everybody
the highest opinion of what is go-
crooked one. It seems as if the
else. When then implying that
ing on in here. Even the Dutch
outside community simply does
we might also be working harder
minister of education himself fa-
not like us, and there are two
sometimes than the average UU
mously claimed that ‘University
main reasons for this: our sup-
student, that class discussions are
College students know less, work
posedly arrogant view of our own
of a higher quality, or that our fu-
less and are less interested than
education and the nature of our
ture aspirations are more ambi-
other students. UCU turns sci-
community inside our gates.
tious, you call upon yourself the
ence into Disneyland.’
wrath of many a Dutch student. For all the non-Dutch reading
Granted, it is fun here, but we are
this, there is one aspect of Dutch
Perhaps we would get along
nowhere near Disneyland (yet).
culture threatening acceptance of
better if we got to know each
Unfortunately, our minister’s opin-
UC by both members of the gov-
other’s world better – but it was
ion seems to rapidly gain ground
ernment and students from other
nearly impossible to find anyone
with the UU population and be-
universities - and that is beau-
from the legendary ‘outside the
37
UCU ten year anniversary | Inside the gates - outside the gates
“Although we could try harder, and UC’ers sometimes complain about our closed culture, in general we are more than comfortable staying inside our literal and proverbial gates.”
gates’ to step inside. Many peo-
we take our weekly march to AH
folk that are too good to come
world outside the gates. Yet I
ple asked admitted to feeling
our seclusion might seem slight-
off campus?
believe we are all privileged
uncomfortable or even intimidat-
ly sect-like at times. Although
ed by the closeness of the cul-
we could try harder, and UC’ers
Often, we do believe we are bet-
ble, good or bad as it may be,
ture that exists on our campus.
sometimes complain about our
ter in some way or another. With
at least for a few years before
And yes, it may be true that for
closed culture, in general we are
our own prejudices such as ‘UU
heading out into ‘the real world’.
some of us the world on aver-
more than comfortable staying
students are lazy since they can
Since even though it might be
age days does not stretch be-
inside our literal and prover-
just resit their exams’ we are not
more exciting, cooler, better,
yond campus, the park and the
bial gates. Our seclusion leads
guilt free either. In the end, it is
more motivating, and definitely
Albert Heijn, and that for many
directly to another prejudice:
clear that our world inside can-
more real out there – you won’t
UU students seeing us only when
UC’ers, aren’t those the arrogant
not easily be understood by the
survive in pajama pants. 1
to find ourselves in this bub-
38
How international is UCU? by Alisa Kholmovskaya
tire campus population. But what
raises the issue of UCU being
class of ‘11
is it that makes a student “inter-
“Western-centric”. The facilities
national”?
on campus (like Dining Hall and
Living in a unit with five Dutch
Bar) are oriented towards west-
students might raise a question
Is it, for example, fair to call an
ern cultures, although Dining Hall
about the internationality of UCU.
Italian student who has been liv-
now and then serves Indone-
But let’s take a closer look at the
ing in Holland for eight years “in-
sian and Moroccan food. Frater-
cultural backgrounds these Dutch
ternational”, or is it fair to label
nities and sororities, significant
people come from. My neighbors,
a Dutch student who has never
forces in the lives of quite a few
for example, are not typical Dutch;
lived in the Netherlands “Dutch”?
students, primarily attract Dutch
many of them have taken gap
And what to do with students with
members. But, Primus, in an ef-
years (in Latin America, Indone-
dual nationalities (almost 9%)?
fort to become more accessible,
sia, US) and some have lived a sig-
“As far as I’m concerned, I would call myself a truly international student. Yes, we may be a minority at UCU, but we are definitely growing.”
has declared English as their of-
elled all around the world, worked
nificant part of their lives abroad.
Statistics show that out of all
ficial language. Small steps that
in international environments, did
One of my Dutch neighbors
Dutch students 46 are half Dutch,
are vital for making UCU truly in-
charity work and studied abroad.
holds multiple passports (which I
and only 10 of those were born
ternational.
They are an interesting group to
promised to keep a secret).
in the Netherlands. There are
interact with, to share your experi-
only 367 students who are 100%
What is certain is that – while de-
ence, find similarities, get in touch
As far as I’m concerned, I would
Dutch (place of birth and nation-
fining “international” remains dif-
with foreign languages, and work
call myself a truly international
ality) – which is a half of all stu-
ficult - UCU is one of the most
on projects together. I find my-
student. Yes, we may be a minor-
dents. There are 60 students who
international places in the Nether-
self very fortunate to study here at
ity at UCU, but we are definitely
were born in another country, but
lands. The diversity brought into
UCU with the gifted students who
growing. Statistics show that we
are Dutch.
the classroom in terms of the ex-
have managed to inspire me and
periences and nationalities is truly
make a difference in my life which
inspiring: most students have trav-
I will never forget. 1
are approximately 36% of the enTwo thirds of the student body claims itself to be somehow conFacing page / Natasha Risseeuw, language: Spanish photo by: Roeland Verhallen
nected to the Netherlands; more then two thirds of our instructors are Dutch (73%), 19% are European, and only four teachers are non-Western. This also
How international is UCU? | UCU ten year anniversary
teacher quotes
Student: “Doesn’t this statement here by Brenner somehow summarise what the article is about?” “Well yeah... I guess so... because it’s the title.” Guus van Westen / geography instructor
40
Metrophobia Poem of some sorts ::
by Simon Cook* creative writing teacher
UCU Elite Future Leaders have a unique perspective on things.
bonned willy. Alcohol flowed, the dance floor was occupied, and some
Liberal arts opens your mind up to the world. You don’t go to University
unlucky people got pitchers thrown over them. It was a normal Tuesday
to study: you go there to become an adult. The professors don’t speak
night again.
English. The boys wear tight pants. The living rooms stink. The assigned
College Bar, 2006, Tuesday night, 12 PM. Empty. There are five people on
unit policy sucks.
the left, and five people on the right. The first years don’t show up in the
The pre-cooked meals save time. The professors care about their stu-
bar. In 2009, they’re discussing strategies to get people back to the bar.
dents. The assigned unit mate policy gives one the chance to get to
None of my friends want to come with me into town because it’s always
know new people.
too cold or too rainy to leave campus, and they’re too cheap to pay
Of course we come to class in pyjamas. The small student body creates
more for beer.
an intimate environment. Normal UU students seem to think of campus
But of course, there is the intransigent anti-UC-student, for whom the
as a prison:
word ‘off-campus’, or better, ‘Amsterdam’ guarantees instant orgasm.
“Are you allowed to leave campus after ten?”
I lived with a student who lit large fires inside the house, tormented and
“Do people wake you up in the morning?”
blackmailed a housemate and blew up the microwave.
Students only write what they know the teacher will like. The Wall is gen-
Sounds of copulation penetrate the thin wall between my room and my
erally a disaster of infestations, leakages and darkness. How many UCU
neighbour’s.
students does it take to change a light bulb? Who do we call?
Girls stop wearing heels after two weeks.
I’m not alone in my struggle.
Fortunately, I manage not to lose my balance, though somewhere in my
He likes the bar so much that he sometimes brings his laptop to study
mind the condom had activated an alarm bell.
there. The looming counts of words threatens everybody: they can only be
The answer is bullet-proof glass.
eradicated by the slow and systematic process of researching and typing.
I learned a campus is a community, and my responsibility to campus life
Even at the high-intensity, work-your-ass-off rocket-science program
doesn’t stop at the classroom. And the complete obliteration of the Wall
called University College Utrecht, the ruling elite of tomorrow need to re-
is a bit too much to hope for. 1
lax after a hard day’s studying, in the college bar. Four, if not five, times a week. I was just a first year. Young and stupid.
* I stitched together the above from things people (students) said and
Beer consumption has always been around 200 hectoliters per year.
wrote about UC. I’ve taken liberties with juxtaposition & context and
They were clearly in another world. They were totally comfortable around
completely distorted almost all of what was said. But I didn’t write it.
each other. They touched, caressed and kissed.
Simon Cook
The effects of drug taking are magnified by the gated social arrangements of UCU. And I could tell a lot of girls were quite disappointed when, after what seemed like only ten minutes, it all ended with a short view of his rib-
41
Facing page / Boaz Zaionce Language: Arabic Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
UCU ten year anniversary | Poem of some sorts
Celebrating the year round :: How do you celebrate ten years of UCU? One option is to throw a big
es of land which belonged to the church and existed from the Middle
party and be done with it. But that wouldn’t do justice to what UCU is
Ages until the Napoleonic period. Monasteries and cathedrals had
all about. Instead the lustrum committee chose to spread the celebra-
sovereign power over these immunities, and they were protected
tions over the year. With some events focusing on academics and oth-
from the world outside by special laws. As the church was the main
ers on campus and committee life the aim was to celebrate UCU in all
locus of scientific research and academic knowledge, the immunities
its facets, all year long. There were special events, and regular events
developed into powerful centers of knowledge.
spiced up for the occasion. A recap: Mr. Wolfsen attributed similar qualities to University College, but also
Opening Event – 29 August 2008
signaled the importance of contact with the world beyond the gate.
Aeolus, the Greek god of the winds, must have a soft spot for UCU.
He mentioned instances of community service occurring on campus,
By the end of a rainy and cloudy August nobody believed in a sun-
and suggested strategies for further strengthening of these projects,
ny start of the 10th anniversary anymore. But a bleak sun on Friday
as well as the connection between the college and the city of Utrecht.
morning predicted otherwise, and by midday the UCU campus was bathing in sunlight under clear skies. A great day to party!
Annual scholarship dinner – 28 November 2008 The lustrum edition of the annual scholarship dinner, traditionally to
As a result the turnout was great: most students, alumni from all
take place by the end of November, raised € 12.000,- for charity. The
years, many teachers, staff and their guests transformed the campus
proceeds go towards scholarships for highly qualified students who
into a lively festival terrain. Under the soft jazz tones which emanated
want to come to UCU but lack the financial means.
from the stage one could indulge in hamburgers, grilled zucchini and cold beer.
The guest list numbered 150 attendees, ranging from UCU students and alumni to parents, friends, faculty, staff and invited guests. For
When the Blues Brothers appeared on stage the party really broke
the occasion Dining Hall had been magically transformed into a posh
loose. Strikingly similar to the original act, they brought a show full of
restaurant. 61 different national flags suspended from the ceiling gave
rhythm and blues classics. At 23:00 beautiful fireworks lit up the sky.
the area an international touch. Upon entrance cocktails were served,
An impressive start to a new year. In the UCSA bar, filled to the brim,
while a string trio provided a distinguished atmosphere.
the party continued into the night. The serving staff consisted of friendly and skilled volunteers, who
Opening of the academic year with Mayor Aleid Wolfsen –
more than adequately refilled wine glasses and served the different
19 September 2008
courses. With a Moroccan pastry starter, a rich game soup served in a
Friday the 19th of September Rob van der Vaart, Dean of UCU, of-
tall wine glass, a beautifully arranged seafood curry, and a grand des-
ficially opened the academic year at the Fall Convocation. Key-note
sert the Dining Hall staff once again gave proof of the fact that there
speaker was Aleid Wolfsen, Mayor of Utrecht. In his speech mr. Wolf-
is some real cooking talent amongst them. Not only was each course
sen drew parallels between University College and immunities, patch-
a treat to the eye, but tastes were wonderfully balanced as well.
43
UCU ten year anniversary | Celebrating the year round
Then a group of UCU musicians gave a harmonious and solemn perfor-
Haba na Haba – 24/26 March 2009
mance of two Scandinavian folk songs, followed by an energetic rendition
Haba na Haba (Swahili for ‘step by step’) is a Kenyan youth project
of The Police’s ‘Roxanne’. The subsequent raffle gave guests the opportu-
which, through the performing arts, aims to integrate, educate and in-
nity to donate to charity once more, and win nice prizes while doing so. It
form the community. Young people performing music, drama, dance and
was a worthy conclusion to a successful and memorable evening.
acrobatics, address themes such as female empowerment, hiv/aids, education, and alcohol and drug use.
Career Conference – 6 February 2009 UCSA, UCAA and the career development office organised the lustrum
Based in different slums, most group members themselves are aids or-
edition of the annual career conference, centered around the theme:
phans. By introducing them to the performing arts, they experience
“globalization, going global”. Featuring a host of interesting firms and
personal development and a renewed sense of direction in life. But the
speakers in two rounds of workshops, round table discussions, a net-
project also stimulates social integration, bringing together people from
working lounge and a Lustrum-worthy buffet, the following companies
different backgrounds. The (often illiterate) community is involved in the
and organizations were represented: Triodos bank, McKinsey, Sotheby’s,
performance, and stimulated to participate. Performances often lead
Philips, Ministry of Foreign affairs (Diplomatenklasje). The conference was
to discussions among performers and audience, about the issues ad-
opened in a Keynote address by Henk Benjamins, a.o. former chairman
dressed.
of the board of Frans Maas, a leading European transport firm. A group of 9 Haba na Haba’s visited our campus. On Tuesday, they per-
Alumni Reunion – 7 February 2009
formed before a full auditorium. They performed a play about politics, and
After welcoming piano sounds performed by Colijn Buis (’02), the dean
how you should not always take politicians’ claims at face value. Interacting
opened the alumni day. A round of workshops followed: body painting,
with the audience they got people to respond to the situations as they were
drama improv, meditation, kendo (martial arts), poker, nude sketching,
performed, and were invited to comment on what they saw.
sushi making and the definite favorite – cocktail mixing. On Wednesday the group went to Amsterdam, to witness music teacher At the buffet dinner there was opportunity for all the alumni from the
Susanne van Els’ performance in the concert hall. After a tour around our
workshops and the newcomers to mingle among the bar tables. The en-
nation’s capital they worked together with Rich Hinam’s performing arts
suing pub quiz was another spectacular highlight, as it brought every-
class.
one together in racking their brains on the chewy if not tough questions. Judging from the endless list of teams, there couldn’t have been many
The result of this collaboration was shown on Thursday. Before a crowd
people not in the game.
of students, staff and teachers Haba na Haba performed a few sketches with UC students. These were intermitted by musical pieces under
Former UC DJ Kiran Coleman (’05) offered us some swinging tunes in
guidance of Susanne van Els. As Kenyan tradition does not distinguish
the first half of the evening and the current DJ’s took over for the rest of
between dance, theater or singing, there was an interesting contrast be-
the night. People were mingling, catching up on the post-UC years and
tween our and their way of performing. The evening ended with a thank
enjoying a few cocktails. A decent group of alumni from all years attend-
you ritual that performers and audience took part in. Drama teacher Rich
ed the reunion, and judging from the great turnout this was definitely not
Hinam, finally, expressed the wish to establish a long lasting relationship
the last alumni reunion.
with our African visitors. >
44
Charity Ball – 3 April 2009
afternoon a team of UCU staff and faculty faced a team of UCU students
From the start UCU has known the tradition of an annual prom. Men dress
in a slow-pitch softball game, which the students ultimately won 13 to 9.
up in snug white tie and women in cinderella attire, they hop on a bus to a remote castle and party all night long. That used to be the end of it. Until
During the Festival the Lustrum Exhibition was opened, showing the dif-
a few years ago a group of students got dissatisfied with the concept and
ferent aspects of 10 years of UCU in six different venues on campus. Visi-
wanted something more meaningful or lasting out of the experience.
tors could see campus from the inside and the outside, in real life and on photographs, and make a journey through history that showed how
Charity Ball was invented, dancing for a cause. On April 3rd the 2009
the campus has become the way it is nowadays. The different topics on
edition of the Charity Ball took place in Utrecht’s Winkel van Sinkel.
exhibition were: the international community, campus architecture, the
Charity of choice was IMC Weekendschool, an organization that pro-
UCU curriculum, the UCSA committees, room and board, and off cam-
vides supplementary education for children, ages ten to fourteen, from
pus involvement (exchanges and internships). During the Lustrum Con-
underprivileged neighborhoods in the major cities of the Netherlands.
ference a selection of the photographs was on display, and the UU library
The charity was chosen not only for the proven impact of their work but
will also exhibit the collection after the Summer.
also because it was felt as a good opportunity for UCU students to give something back to their community.
Lustrum Conference – 24/25 April 2009 A major event in the lustrum celebrations, the first ever UCU Lustrum
Before a group of 360 attendants IMC Weekendschool director Die-
Conference aimed to involve the entire UCU community in two days of
derik Slot opened the evening, thanking UCU for their donation of over
lectures, workshops, master classes and entertainment, all around the
€ 3000,-. Around midnight the formalities made place for DJ Tony Cha
theme: civilications – clash or dialogue? On Friday morning, Peter Ho,
Cha and DJ Eric Santana, who kept the dancefloor filled until 4 o’clock.
Abena Busia and Dirk Draulans offered interesting views on the topic at hand, each from their own perspective (development in China, African
Festival & Lustrum Exhibition – 18 April 2009
identity and evolutionary biology). The afternoon was filled with interest-
The Festival is a one-day event in which the UCU campus is transformed
ing and well-attended workshops – despite the weather, which was too
into a bee-hive of student activity. All students, parents, alumni, teachers,
good for the occasion. The formal dinner and entertainment concluded
neighbors, prospective students, sister colleges and UU students & em-
the evening.
ployees were invited to experience the UCU atmosphere. The master classes on Saturday were interesting and challenging; in the All UCSA committees were represented at a market and activities includ-
afternoon, Bernhard Dolna, who could not deliver his lecture on Friday
ed music, dance and drama performances, campus tours, a photo exhi-
because his plane from Vienna did not take off, presented his paper, and
bition, high tea, workshops, sports competitions and much more. Food
there was a moving video address by keynote speaker Jonathan Jansen.
stands, bars and lounge areas provided an opportunity to relax and en-
Jansen, the first black dean in South Africa, had been unable to attend
joy the day. Many parents turned up, and for those bringing small chil-
due to turmoil surrounding the elections in that country. The conference
dren there was a bouncy castle. Big children had the opportunity to ride
ended with a bang, thanks to a dazzling performance by former UCU
the mechanical bull. Roosevelt Academy had sent a bus full of students,
student Samba Schutte. 1
who also competed against a team of UCU students. At the end of the
45
UCU ten year anniversary | Celebrating the year round
Facing page / Yangyang Fang Language: Chinese Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
Not your ordinary alumni :: Upon graduation any student, at
their international backgrounds
any institute, becomes an alum-
they travel all over the planet
nus. A process that is unavoid-
as well. Every alumnus has had
able, and, more importantly, in-
the experience of meeting a for-
erasable. It sticks, whether you
mer classmate in an unexpected
like it or not.
place. What’s more, they take advantage of this fact. Before trav-
At UCU this truism is no less val-
eling they check facebook to see
id. Alumni deal with this newly
who’s in the area, give them a call
acquired status in various ways.
and arrange a bed for the night,
Some have a drink in the col-
or at the very least a rendezvous
lege bar on a weekly basis, visit
to share travel tips over a cup of
their friends on campus for lunch,
coffee.
The Latin noun alumnus (female alumna) means nursling or ward, in allusion to the metaphorical relationship of the student to Alma mater - the romantic female embodiment of each educational institution. It has come to mean, within common English usage, a graduate of a seat of learning.
and date freshmen. Others close the UCU chapter and focus on
Bonds forged at UCU seem tight-
their master’s, job, or the future
er, more durable. Taking a stab at
Alumni relations 2.0:
in general. The remainder hov-
understanding this phenomenon,
UCUniverse
teresting positions. If they have
ers somewhere in between these
one could point out that UCU
As an institute, UCU wishes to re-
warm feelings towards UCU, then
extremes.
students not only studied, but
tain that bond as well. For one
they are fantastic ambassadors
lived together. Sharing the good
thing, UCU is very proud of her
of the college. And vice versa: if
At the same time UCU alumni
as well as the bad times for three
offspring. They end up in inter-
UCU graduates are doing well,
are of a particular type. Like most
years straight would seem like
esting places, doing interesting
then current students will have an
friends who met in college, they
a good enough basis for lasting
research, working at interesting
easier time finding master’s and
tend to stick together. But true to
friendships.
companies and institutes in in-
jobs in the future. >
Facing page / Cassiopée Vienne Language: French Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
teacher quotes
“There are trilingual people who speak three languages, bilingual people who speak two languages... and there are Americans.” Rosemary Orr / linguistics instructor
Not your ordinary alumni | UCU ten year anniversary
48
Some facts about UCUniverse: 952 users, of which > 51 staff & faculty > 396 students > 493 alumni > 12 professional partners
An initiative of a group of grad-
details as well as address informa-
uates, the University College
tion, but CVs and photo albums
Alumni Association (UCAA) was
can be uploaded as well. But it’s
founded not long after the first
more than just that. Companies
class graduated. Since then the
can post job and internship va-
UCAA has published alumni mag-
cancies, to which users can apply
azine QuaQuaVersal, organized
directly. In addition the platform
(regional) drinks, hosted a band
hosts a news service, pages with
night, pub quizzes and an alumni
information about the lustrum and
reunion. A notable achievement is
photo albums. Future plans in-
the yearly career conference, a fair
clude an elaborate calendar, mer-
where alumni and students meet
chandise and more.
with various employers in work-
did you know...
Did you know that when UCU had just started the chair of the University Board of that time, Jan Veldhuis, – who happened to be very critical of UCU – came to visit, and subsequently got lost on the campus for twenty minutes?
shops and round table discus-
Like any comprehensive ICT proj-
sions. In addition they developed
ect, the development period has
a database of alumni addresses
not been without bumps. Slowly
and maintained contact through
but surely, however, a useful and
periodical mailings.
fun site is emerging.
Gradually UCU realized that alum-
UCUniverse’s ultimate aim is to
ni relations is a core business of
become an information hub facili-
any educational institute, and the
tating contact between alumni,
alumni office was installed. Today
students and staff. Cherishing and
UCU’s alumni officers cooper-
expanding your network was nev-
ate with the UCAA on everything
er this easy… 1
alumni related. A tangible result of this cooperation is UCUniverse, an online platform for the entire community. At its core UCUniverse is a database in which users can update their personal information autonomously. That includes personal
49
UCU ten year anniversary | Not your ordinary alumni
Facing page / Jelena Barac Language: Serbian Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
Leonardo Verkooijen / class of ‘08 Milla Paalanen / class of ‘07 Steven Dijkhuizen / class of ‘02
Life after UCU ::
Leonardo Verkooijen / From the first day of introweek, I met a lot of
over 450 signatories with assets under management of over USD 18
interesting people that agreed on the idea that college was going to be
trillion. I am a project assistant in the Emerging Markets Project; which
the best time of our lives, and during the next three and a half years we
means I am responsible for promoting the PRI in Spanish speaking Lat-
did as much as we could to make that happen.
in America from Lima, Peru.
Even though campus is a very small place, I never experienced a single
What’s funny, is that in my first semester I joined the United Nether-
dull moment. Memorable experiences? Too many to mention! The G-
lands MUN program (only made possible due to my tutor and a very
parties in my first and second year (almost being kicked out of the UCSA
kind teacher who let me skip Friday classes) and now I am actually
board for organizing one of the last ones), ski trips, unit party nights, pok-
working with two people from my delegation that year in the PRI pro-
er nights, unit dinners, and of course, bar nights. Besides all these crazy-
gram!
good times I managed to be a part of the UCSA board in my second year, which was an extremely valuable experience. It was here that I learned about organizing and dealing with many different kinds of people. This experience helped me a lot when I started a short term consultancy position concerning poverty, at the World Bank in Nicaragua during the summer vacation after my second year. My research project also took place in Nicaragua, this time working on the Millennium Development Goals of the UN Development program. After I graduated, I did an internship at the Royal Dutch Embassy in Havana, Cuba. It turned out that compiling a monthly report on human rights violations in the entire country is a pretty intense experience. Right now I am working for an initiative called the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), in cooperation with the UN Global Compact and the UN Environment Program Finance Initiative. This mouthful has created systematic change in the investment industry by urging institutional investors to include environmental, social and corporate government factors into investment decisions. The program was launched in April 2006 by the UN secretary general Kofi Annan. Currently PRI has
51
UCU ten year anniversary | Life after UCU
Milla Paalanen / By way of
ished high school and I wanted to
sorority, Luna. At Luna we had
Brussels Milla Paalanen of Fin-
move on right away. At UCU the
a mascot. A 1,5 meters tall Fla-
Working at the PRI is a challeng-
land landed in Utrecht. “Right af-
possibility was offered to start in
mingo, named Freddy. Primus, a
ing experience, and might at first
ter UCU I wanted to do a PhD. At
January. When I visited the cam-
fraternity, once stole Freddy. We
sight not have that much to do
first I was not able to do this in the
pus for the first time, I immediate-
responded by taking a light with
with what I studied at UC. Fortu-
Netherlands. As opposed to the
ly noticed the good atmosphere.
a Primus print. These items, of
nately, UC taught me more than
UK and the US, it’s just not pos-
When I was looking for a build-
course, had to be exchanged. The
just course material; dealing with
sible here. But some requirements
ing, for example, people were re-
boys blindfolded and ‘abducted’
new people, being open-minded,
were waived which meant that I
ally helpful. I was happy from the
me. In the end we got Freddy
and presenting time and again,
could do promotion research at
start.”
back and they could have their
are skills that are definitely useful
the UU right after my bachelor. I
in my life today. It is a good ex-
started in September and expect
In addition to a great time, in
ample of how what we study does
to be finished in August 2011.”
which she studied biology as
University College is a world
well as minors in psychology and
apart, Milla thinks. “They are al-
not necessarily need to be what
light again.
we end up doing in the future.
Milla grew up in her own country
Dutch, social life on campus was
ways talking about the world out-
Above all though, UC helped me
and came, after an exchange in
equally important. “I was a mem-
side the gates.” >
find the job.
Australia and some time at an in-
ber of the dance committee and
ternational school in Brussels, to
active in the science department.
UCU in 2004. “In December I fin-
But I spent most time with my
As for the future … nothing is cer-
Text: © Ublad, 30 October 2008.
tain yet, as always. For now I intend to concentrate on my work in the PRI, and perhaps after that a masters degree, but I’m not sure where or when. Until then, I plan to enjoy the good weather, delicious food, and beautiful places that Lima has to offer. One thing is for sure; eventually I will return to campus, as every proper alumni should, to meet up with old friends and party once more in
teacher quotes
“There have always been attempts to find the universal language of men which ties into the bigger question where men came from. Many are still hoping that this will turn out to be some place nice and white... like London.” Rosemary Orr / linguistics instructor
true UC tradition.
52
Steven Dijkhuizen / The Bahamas. To many a tropical place, known
has been working on the island
It is these extra curricular activi-
only from photographs of waving palm trees. Steven Dijkhuizen (28)
group. And that’s not his first ad-
ties that benefit your career, Ste-
has a different relation to the Caribbean country. For some time now he
venture abroad.
ven thinks. “The UCU mentality is to go out there and do things.
“I was born in the Netherlands
An exchange to Melbourne, then,
but I spent my childhood in Sin-
does more for you than riding
gapore. I returned when I was
your bike through Utrecht every
eighteen to attend University
day. What matters is what you
College. I was looking for a broad
can do. On a committee meeting
approach which was offered here.
you learn to work as a team.”
It was 1999 and UCU had only existed for a year. At that time
Steven’s experiences brought him
many had doubts about the sys-
to many parts of the world. “After
tem. Too American, too broad,
University College I got my Mas-
and a mentality that differed from
ter’s degree in London. I started
what the regular universities were
working for a media company,
used to. It was pretty intense. It
taking me in three years to about
took a while getting used to liv-
ten different countries in the Mid-
ing on a campus with 600 peo-
dle East and South East Asia. In
ple, but I had a good time. Really
Malaysia I stayed for three years.
enjoyed it.”
And now the Bahamas. When I arrived at University College al-
Steven also took part in some of
most ten years ago, I had plans
UCU’s committees: “I was chair-
for an international future. But
man of the sports committee. We
that things would go quite this
organized many tournaments to
way I had not expected.” 1
promote sports on campus. Think of football and tennis, but also
Text: © Ublad, 30 October 2008.
chess, in the bar. In addition I was a member of the debate team, and together with another guy I went to Slovenia. Quite unexpectedly we finished second in an international debate.”
53
UCU ten year anniversary | Life after UCU
Facing page / Ayana Fabris Language: Italian Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
Credits :: text
production
Lana Askari
Sebastiaan Cassé
Fleur Brunninkhuis Giulia Binon
design
Sebastiaan Cassé
Laurens Hebly
Charlotte Champion Alisa Kholmovskaya
printing
Anouk van der Laan
ZuidamUithof Drukkerijen
photography Giulia Binon André van Haasteren © Universiteit Leiden Keke Keukelaar Fred Trappenburg @ UU-Geomedia Roeland Verhallen (www.roelandverhallen.com)
thanks to Hans Adriaansens
Fried Keesen
Niels Bongers
Milla Paalanen
Simon Cook
Michael Price
Pritha Dahal
Yvonne van Rooy
Steven Dijkhuizen
Rob van der Vaart
Femke van der Geest
UBlad
Jeannette Gels
Leonardo Verkooijen
Ivar van Hasselt
Willem Albert Wagenaar
Hans van Himbergen
Aleid Wolfsen
© University College Utrecht 2009
Facing page / Saskia Westhof Photo by: Roeland Verhallen
We march backwards into the future.�
11
Marshall McLuhan