Chairwoman
Fenna van Heuven
Fenna is responsible for the management of the study tour. She is the connecting factor of this committee.
“Hi, my name is Fenna (21 years), and I am currently in my first year of the Master’s program in Technical Medicine at the University of Twente. This year, alongside my studies, I have the exciting opportunity to organize the Study Tour to Japan as part of this committee.
As the chairwoman, I am responsible for overseeing the committee’s progress, ensuring tasks are completed on time, and maintaining clear communication with the participants. This role allows me to develop my leadership and organizational skills while working closely with my fellow committee members to create a successful and inspiring Study Tour.
Balancing my studies and this organizational role has been both a challenge and a rewarding experience, as I’ve already gained valuable insights into teamwork, planning, and communication. I’m thrilled to contribute to this incredible project and to make this unforgettable journey come true.”
Treasurer
Esther Nijweide
A financial expert responsible for managing spendings and incomes.
“My name is Esther Nijweide and I am the treasurer for Study Tour Kintsugi. Currently, I am a master student of the Medical Device Design track from the Biomedical Engineering master. I started following the Biomedical Engineering program as I am very interested in developing new technologies which can help people in the healthcare sector. Furthermore, I am very interested in learning the differences in different sectors in other companies compared to the Netherlands. I also did my minor abroad in Trento, Italy. With this I learned that the best way to learn about another country is by mingling with the people there.
In my free time I like to read, paint and cook or bake. I am also a part of the university volleybal association, which means I also train and play matches during a week. A fun fact about me is that I did ballet for a short time when I was six as I saw Barbie do it, and thought I could also learn it in one lesson, I was in for a rude awakening.”
Educational Affairs
Fleur Derks
Fleur is responsible for the educational aspect of the study tour. She manages guest lectures and research topics.
“My Name is Fleur Derks and I have the function of Educational Affairs for Study Tour Kintsugi. Currently, I am in the second year of my master’s in Biomedical Engineering, specializing in Biorobotics. I chose this, because I am very interested in the mechanical side of the human body and the different possibilities there are to include robotics in treatment.
In my free time I like to play the trumpet and the guitar and spending time with my friends. “
External Affairs
Femke den Boer
Femke is the bridge between companies and the students of our committee. She searches for possible collaborations.
“Hi everyone! I’m Femke den Boer (21 years) and this year I am honoured to have the function of External Affairs. I share this function with Sarah for half of the year.
Currently, I am in my first year of the Biomedical Engineering master, specialising in Imaging and In Vitro diagnostics. I chose this specialisation, because I am incredibily fascinated the possibility to see inside the human body, without cutting it open. My favourite imaging technology? I have not decided which one the best is yet, but luckily I still have a lot of time in my master’s left to make a choice.
In my free time, I like to do something active or creative. My hobby’s are hiking, doing crossfit, painting, playing the violin, making clothing or reading. I also enjoy spending time with my study friends or my friends at Pythias!”
External and Travel Affairs
Sarah Kuijpers
Sarah also manages the connections between students and companies. She is also involved with travel affairs.
“Hi everyone! My name is Sarah, I’m 23 years old, and I’m currently in the second year of my master’s in Biomedical Engineering, specializing in Physiological Signals and Systems. I’m particularly interested in neuroscience and human-machine interfaces, and I’m really excited to see the innovative solutions Japan has to offer in these areas.
In the committee, I’ll start as Commissioner of External Affairs together with Femke, where we’ll focus on securing as many contract researches as possible for the participants. After that, Nikki and I will work on the travel program and reach out to Japanese companies and hospitals. I’m looking forward to expanding my network! I’ve also never been outside of Europe before, so I’m really excited to explore Japan!
In my free time, you can often find me on the hockey field! I also enjoy playing the piano, cooking, and spending time with my friends.”
Travel Affairs
Nikki van Loenen
Nikki manages international connections and is responsible for everything related to Japan.
“出発する準備はできていますか？
Likewise! I am Nikki and this year, I have the honours of being Travel Affairs as part of this wonderful committee! With experience in the external affairs committee and the board at my rowing association and in travel affairs during my minor abroad, I hope to organise a tour programme to never forget, filled with inspiring experiences both professional and cultural.
Next to the committee, I am graduating for my master’s in Biomedical Engineering, specializing in Bioengineering Technology. In the spare time I have left, am a very sportive kind, I love to row and go for runs: we won’t be sitting still during this study Tour ;)”
I look forward to connect with biotech institutes and companies in Japan, expanding my network overseas.
