I am a social, honest and enthusiastic person. I love teaching young minds. Help them to understand the world of chemistry and to show them how it can be applied. Sparking their enthusiasm for science in every way possible.
I started my career teaching and doing research at the University of Groningen. Then I went to different companies and research institutes. I worked in a startup and I had my own company for some time. All this gave me a very broad experience and practical knowledge that I bring into the classroom with me. It makes it easy for me to relate to the students and to give them examples that they can truly understand.
Because every student is different I use various methods to teach chemistry. Finding the right way for every student so they can really grasp science is a big challenge that I really like. I continuously look for new IT tools, like Kahoot, Flipping the Classroom and Stop-motion, to apply in the classroom. This way children can 'play' and learn at the same time and are also able to learn when they want.
I strongly believe that it is not enough to just do a good teaching job. In order for the children to try their best and really get inspired it is very important to have a good relationship with them based on mutual respect. Without this it will be hard to be a good teacher for them. So, the social part of a teacher's job is very important to me. Talking with them about their weekend, what inspires them, their plans for the future studies or even a baseball game contributes to building mutual respect. It is one of the aspects of being a teacher that comes naturally to me and what makes me a great teacher.
When I look back at my own time at school I remember the teachers that went the extra mile, that were genuinely interested in you or that always new how to really get to you. I believe I am that kind of teacher and I work hard to improve myself in every way I can to become even better.
The interaction with the students, to really see them grow and help them on their way by making science their favorite topic are the main reasons I became a chemistry teacher. And I am very happy with that choice.