Interview: "It's a simple concept but powerful"

Maaike and Martine are deeply involved in the UNIC mobility group and together with the other UNIC colleagues are working on creating innovative mobility and virtual exchange opportunities.

Their insights reveal a deep sense of connection, shared purpose, and practical collaboration that continues to shape their work and energize their roles.

From the outset, both emphasized the emotional resonance of the conference. “For me, it was the moment I arrived and saw people I’d only met online. I got these really big hugs, it felt very warm and welcoming. That was unique,” said Maaike. This sense of familiarity and continuity was echoed throughout the conversation, highlighting how UNIC international gatherings foster relationships that extend beyond formal meetings.

Martine added that UNIC “really feels like a family.” While the term is often used in institutional settings, she stressed that in this case, it’s not just a cliché. “We share common challenges, and when we meet in person, we recognize each other’s efforts and struggles. It creates a special bond.”

The conference sessions themselves sparked new ideas and reaffirmed existing goals. Martine found particular value in the session on Communities of Practice, which she sees as a practical way to improve knowledge sharing and engage more people across the university. “It’s a simple concept but powerful. We’ve already discussed concrete ideas to start these at EUR,” she said.

Another highlight was the session on innovative mobilities, where discussions around a multilateral agreement left participants eager to continue collaborating. “The energy in that room was incredible,” Maaike recalled. Martine also appreciated the opening address by Annelien Bredenoord, President of Erasmus University Rotterdam and UNIC President, which connected UNIC’s work to broader European values like academic freedom and the rule of law, principles that resonate deeply with the international office’s mission.

When asked what UNIC means to them in their day-to-day work, both emphasized the accessibility and support of the network. “I know there’s a group I can always reach out to,” said Maaike, referencing her involvement in the mobility working group. Martine added that being part of a European alliance is both inspiring and challenging. “You have a lot of ambition, and everyone shares that drive. But in reality, it often takes time to achieve goals. Conferences like this help us recharge and keep moving forward.”

Their roles within UNIC go beyond administration. As connectors and facilitators, they see it as their responsibility to encourage collaboration and out-of-the-box thinking. Maaike noted that UNIC offers tailored staff exchanges that go “the extra mile” to create meaningful experiences. “You’ll come back inspired and with a network. There’s a way to be involved for almost everyone.”

The interview closed with a reflection on the importance of face-to-face meetings. Both agreed that informal moments, waiting for coffee, walking to lunch, often lead to the most valuable takeaways. “You don’t click ‘leave’ like in an online meeting. You keep talking, connecting, and discovering,” said Maaike.