Student confidants GSLS
Sometimes, it’s easier to open up to a fellow student than to your teacher, coordinator or study advisor. That’s where our student confidants come in. They are here to offer a listening ear and support in a safe, confidential space.
The GSLS has appointed two student confidants, Bianca and Lieke. They come from different programmes within the GSLS (MCLS and SBM, respectively), but you’re free to choose whoever feels right for you.
You can reach out to them (GSLS.SC@uu.nl) for an informal chat, advice, or guidance on where to seek further support. Whatever’s on your mind, you don’t have to face it alone.
Everything you share will remain completely confidential.
Bianca Mascarenhas
Hi there! I’m Bianca and I am in the first year of my Master’s in Molecular and Cellular Life Sciences. When I’m not busy scurrying around the lab, I enjoy spending my time crafting, cheffing up a storm, going out with friends, or at the gym! Before starting my Master’s, I studied Life Sciences at University College Utrecht, with a side specialization in Psychology. While I have spent 4 years in Utrecht thus far, I remember my first days here like it was yesterday, so trust that I have experienced many of the hurdles that coming to the Netherlands as an international brings.
As a confidentiality person, I aim to lend an ear to any problems you may be experiencing Together we can discuss what potential avenues exist to mitigate them. Of course, we don’t have to work towards solutions, I am also happy to simply be there for you to vent! In case of any issues, please don’t hesitate to contact us!
Lieke van den Burg
Hey again! I’m Lieke, a first year Science and Business management student, currently conducting research on nanoplastics. Very interesting, but not all there is in life! I love to paint, sing, dance and cook! You can also find me in a wine tasting bar, where I can tell you a lot about the wine you are drinking! I (we) understand that doing your GSLS master in Utrecht can be quite hard. Tackling all your problems alone doesn’t facilitate this! Please feel free to reach out, even if you just want to have a chat or vent…! Because, doing this all on your own is honestly one of the hardest things to ask of yourself!
If you feel more comfortable in having a conversation in Dutch, that is also absolutely fine! I am a native Dutch speaker, and I also have studied in Utrecht during my bachelor (Chemistry), so I am happy to help or redirect you best way possible!