Roughly two years ago, I was asked to help out during the MAK Introduction Day for new TiSEM students. At the time, I already knew a bit about MAK, but I hadn’t joined the study association yet, as I had many other commitments. However, I didn’t have any plans for that particular day in August, so I thought, why not? Off I went, not really knowing anyone and stepping in with an open mind.
Throughout the day, I spoke to many new people and immediately felt very welcomed. Afterward, I was invited to join for pizza and drinks, which turned into a late night that ended at the Nacho Bar. In the weeks that followed, I started attending the biweekly drinks and gradually got to know more members of the association. What really helped me feel at home in MAK was the integration period: during those first months, all kinds of activities were organized specifically for new members. These events made it easy to connect not only with fellow newcomers but also with more experienced members. Together with the other newcomers from my semester, I later introduced myself to the whole association at the General Members Meeting (GMM), where I officially became a member of MAK.
During my first semester at MAK, I was already involved in organizing some very exciting events, including the MAKTalk, where we hosted Erik Scherder and Tim Senders at Tilburg University. Being part of such a project taught me a lot about event planning, working in a team and communicating effectively. In my second semester, I was given the opportunity to lead a committee, which allowed me to further develop my leadership skills, from coordinating tasks and motivating others to managing deadlines and bringing ideas to life. Last semester I was appointed Chairman of the Introduction Committee, responsible for organizing the MAK Introduction Day, the very event where my own MAK journey began. These experiences have helped me grow both personally and professionally, and as of this September, I am proud to take on the next challenge as Chairman of MAK.
Over the past two years, I’ve gained so many experiences that I would never have encountered through my studies alone, and this growth will certainly continue during my upcoming board year. One experience I will never forget is last year’s ski trip. It was my first time skiing, and it was absolutely amazing. We traveled to Sölden, Austria, taking turns driving in vans. We explored the snowy mountains, enjoyed schnitzels, and of course, experienced the après-ski. On the third day of the trip, there was even an entire festival in the mountains, an unforgettable highlight!
Besides the ski trip, one of my favorite recurring activities is the MAK weekends. Spending a weekend away with all MAK members is a perfect mix of fun, teambuilding, and relaxation. It’s during these weekends that you really get to know people on a deeper level, beyond the regular events and drinks.
Looking back, saying “yes” to that one Introduction Day turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made during my time at university. MAK has given me not only professional skills and leadership opportunities, but also friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re considering getting more involved, whether by helping at an event, joining a committee, or just coming along to a drink, my advice is simple: go for it! You never know where it might take you.
Vera