1. What is the best advice anyone has ever given to you?“Ivo Opstelten, at the moment the Dutch Minister of Security and Justice, once said to me: “You must try and make sure that you never lose the enthusiasm and sincerity which you radiate”. Particularly when it comes to decision-making situations I am too easily inclined ‘to go along’, to find confirmation. “Don’t”, said Ivo, “just stick to your guns”. And he is perfectly right there.”

2. What is your favorite spot?“That’s easy: on a terrace in the sun. The sun gives me peace to mull things over. I lose any hectic fevers, and time seems endless.”

3. In whose shoes would you like to be and why?“In the shoes of Harry Roumen, the secretary of the TU/e. I feel a strong bond with the students and the ins and outs of the university. I should like to play a more connecting role, like Harry is doing now. Not only between the students and the decision-makers at TU/e, but also between TU/e and external parties. Bringing people together so that new things are generated is something I enjoy tremendously. It would make me proud if I could mean something for TU/e in that way.”

4. Who at TU/e deserves a pat on the back?“I would want to pat the whole Communication Expertise Center on the back. Not everybody at TU/e is aware that they are always under pressure, that their work cannot always be measured or assessed, and nevertheless all the members of the team always dedicate themselves with absolute commitment. They are passionate people every single one of them, who always give their all.” (HB)