Connecting@VU: Conversations on feeling at home
Episode 1
Geertje Hulzebos talks to VU students about their perspective on diversity and reflects with them on the role they play in creating diversity and inclusive environments. Together with two diversity experts – one being an employee, the other a student – she discusses what is necessary to be able to connect with people who may differ from ourselves in many ways.
About the host
Geertje Hulzebos
Coming from VMBO (pre-vocational secondary education) and special education, Geertje has experienced herself how important it is for education to be inclusive. She currently works as education consultant for the Dutch government.
“The natural tendency of organizations is to foster homogeneity, and that is also what we as human beings do. We like being around people who are just like us. So, in order to become an open place for people who differ from each other, that’s really an adventure. And I think it’s worth the endeavor.”
“A lot of students are people of color. Only, the representation within staff members, or teachers, or professors doesn’t really match with the amount of diversity within the student population. As well as sometimes representation within the knowledge that we get taught.”
Are you curious for more episodes of Connecting@VU? Check out the show’s page, and find out more about the other hosts, episodes and makers.