Just diving in

Just diving in

Portrait participant INKOM: Ivo van der Grinten from the Netherlands

21-08-2024 · Interview

For now, 20-year-old Ivo van der Grinten has nothing to complain about his introductory week in Maastricht. “It's going pretty well, I just dove in, without any preparation,” the European Public Health student says with a smile on his lips.

At the market where the student sports associations are presenting themselves, he is orienting himself on possible membership. “I'm thinking frisbee or squash. Or maybe both.” 

He likes Maastricht, and although he already has some acquaintances and friends in the city, Van der Grinten still occasionally has to consult Google Maps to find his way around. He has little support from his INKOM group. “That fell apart very quickly, on the first day. Some had to go home, others had obligations at a dispute. Fortunately, I am not completely alone, because I am going to study here with a few friends from high school. That's really pure coincidence and a lot of fun.”

About living space during his college years, Van der Grinten does not have to worry, together with his sister he was able to buy a house. “It was really a DIY house that we tackled together.” Having their own accommodation like this is an unprecedented luxury for a student, but an added benefit is that two friends also moved in with them, allowing them to share costs. 

For Van der Grinten, having his own place will take some getting used to; this is the first time he will be living on his own. “I come from a village near Eindhoven and I won't miss it very much. At most our two dogs. I am especially looking forward to the freedom I will also get.”    

Photo: Observant

Categories: Background
Tags: INKOM2024, Introduction week, Introduction, first-years, European Public Health

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