The UT has recently become one network richer with the "Young Alumni Network". This network aims to connect recent UT graduates over the country. Our University is not the first university with such an initiative. The Universities of both Utrecht and Leiden boast similar successful young alumni networks.
My name is Ivo ten Brinck and I graduated earlier this year from the UT industrial design programme. At the moment I am enjoying the time off following my studies and am taking opportunities to develop myself. I make up the 1/4th part of the first board of the Young Alumni Network, along with Anke Renkens, Ugur Bagci and Pedro Bernardo Meyer. In my opinion, I am a par excellence example of someone who could benefit from a network like this! Via our network of UT alumni I can hopefully 'connect' with the right contacts who can help find the perfect challenge for this environmentally conscious designer.
The Young Alumni Network is especially intended to help fresh graduates find a first job or serve as a springboard for new challenges for someone sitting too long in place at their current employer. Our new board hopes to facilitate this by bringing young alumni together for events like lectures and workshops.
Why create one additional network alongside the existing alumni chapters and alumni associations? Young graduates have different needs than, say, retired former UT’ers. Therefore, the recommended but flexible age limit of 35 years for participants . The new network will offer events that are relevant to young graduates. Think of a workshop "How do I buy my first house," or "how do I negotiate for the best salary at a new job." These events will take place at special locations where you ordinarily would not have access and as former students, every event will of course conclude with a networking ‘borrel’ drink.
At this moment, our board is busy planning the kick-off event for the Young Alumni Network, which we plan to have at a very cool and appropriate location. We hope to see you at the first event (and of course the next) in large numbers! In addition to the events organized by ourselves, we plan to also raise awareness about the other UT alumni associations and chapters.
For the new year, the Young Alumni Network is also looking for four additional enthusiastic new board members to join us in leading this initiative. Candidates will serve terms of between 1-2 years as board members and preferably will be under the age of 35 years. To be considered you need to be a graduate of the University Twente. Leadership experience during your UT studies is a plus, but not required.
Are you interested in becoming part of our board, have tips for interesting activities, or would like more information about upcoming events? For more information please check our website here or contact the UT alumni office.
