From a young age, I dreamed of becoming a veterinarian, and it came as no surprise to anyone when I began studying veterinary medicine after high school. While my initial goal was to pursue clinical practice, my interests shifted during my final years at university as I developed a passion for scientific research.
For my master’s thesis, I joined the parasitology department, immersing myself in a project mapping parasite load in Macaque monkeys. To my own surprise, discovering parasitic cysts under the microscope fueled my curiosity and ignited a desire to pursue a scientific career. Upon earning my veterinary degree, I continued this path by undertaking a doctoral research position focused on innovative and sustainable strategies to address the effects of global change on ruminant parasite infections. During this time, I had the rewarding opportunity to mentor students and participate in various teaching activities, which sparked an interest in education and science communication.
After relocating from Belgium to the United States, I started as a teaching fellow at Harvard University. The inspiring interactions with both students and faculty made me only more enthusiastic about teaching and mentoring. Currently, as a Lecturer and Curriculum and Pedagogy Manager at MCB, I teach Life Science 1a (LS 1a), first year seminar 52T (FYSEMR 52T) and coordinate the Foundational Experiences in the Laboratory (FUEL) summer program.
I’m grateful to be part of foundational classes that help shape students’ perspectives on science and potentially evoke a lifelong interest in research. I consider fostering an encouraging environment where students feel confident to doubt and inquire, one of the most impactful aspects of my work.