When I was writing my Master’s thesis, I realised I was inspired by the academic world and wanted more: I decided to become a researcher.
No plan B
My plan failed instantly as the funds I was hoping for were assigned to others; there was no Plan B. Luckily, a vacancy at the department of Transport and Regional Economics at the University of Antwerp meant a second chance, at the right moment.
In the summer of 2012 I started to work as a PhD student for the second Flemish Policy Research Centre for Freight and Passenger Mobility. My first important conclusion, after weeks of intensive research during the holiday season: being a researcher means being lonely. My second conclusion: too much freedom results in purposelessness. Both insights led up to a new strategy: a more proactive approach was needed.
Positive feeling
Now, after more than four years of research, my final conclusion is that I really miss my friends at the City Campus and that I have more plans, goals and ambitions than time available to put them into deeds. The dominant feeling when thinking about my time in Antwerp as a PhD candidate is definitely positive.
I met inspiring people and encountered new theories and concepts. I discovered and learned research techniques that were previously unknown to me. The library of the university was and still is a beautiful source of knowledge. I was offered sufficient time to explore, try, fail and succeed. I had the opportunity to present my research results to an international audience and extend my academic network.
At the university I faced new challenges and I conquered old barriers, doubts and fears. Thanks to the University of Antwerp, my promotors and my friends, I now have a wonderful job at the Netherlands Institute for Transport Policy Analysis.