Martin Streng is one of our ATLAS teachers who joined the staff last year. He is not only teaching mathematics but also functions as a mentor and project tutor for the students.
Coming from Apeldoorn, The Netherlands, Martin Streng moved to Enschede to study technical physics and applied mathematics at the University of Twente. He also got a PhD in mathematics, worked at the educational centre, and even did a Post Doc, after which he continued in the business world at Thales and KPN Research. After almost 10 years of working for these companies, Martin Streng started his own business. He worked together with people from Finland and the USA on data transmission over copper wires to improve the communication technologies.
Next to his job as an entrepreneur, he also did a lot of other projects: “I have been involved in creating an educational program for talented children in primary school, and currently I own a spiritual centre, providing a place for yoga, tai chi, meditation, and personal coaching. I do not teach yoga and such, but I facilitate others to do so and I am a life coach for which I followed several educations. I also like photography and writing.” Last year, Ruud van Damme, another mathematics teacher at University College Twente, drew Martin Streng’s attention to the ATLAS program. “What attracted me, was the integration of social sciences and engineering. I think the world needs engineers who can combine technology and society. Moreover, it is an educational program with highly talented students, whom make teaching interesting.”
Martin Streng: “The ATLAS program is not a regular educational environment. As the program continues developing, it is complicated to apply some structure to the workplace and education. This might cause stress for both students and staff. However, the continuous change and development also make it interesting; everyone can contribute to shaping the program. I also enjoy the interaction with students, everything they propose to study is interesting.”
For the coming two years, Martin Streng will continue to work for ATLAS, but after his three-year contract ends, he does not know yet what he wants to do: “Working in the same position for three years is already very long to me. I think it is healthy for both the organization and my own development to change from time to time”. Martin’s opinion on ATLAS is: “That it is extremely important to adhere to the ambition to educate the best new engineers since that is the basis under its existence, it’s “raison d’être”. Lastly, Martin Streng has some advice for new and current students: “Do not forget that you are not your study, but you are much more than that. It is only a small part of life, so try to engage yourself in other practices as well.”
University College Twente offers a unique bachelor’s programme, Technology, Liberal, Arts and Sciences, to top students. Visit the University College Twente website for more information about the college and Technology, Liberal, Arts and Sciences website for more information about the bachelor program. Or visit us during the open day, a student-for-a-day or an insight-day.
