Larisa Fedeles | Faces of FEB

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The Faculty of Economics and Business is a faculty with a great diversity of people who all have an impact, big or small, on science and society. But who are these people? Within ‘Faces of FEB’ we connect with different students, staff members and researchers of the faculty and give a little peek into their world. This week: Larisa Fedeles, student International Business and currently following the FEB Honours Bachelor program.

1. Could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

My name is Larisa Fedeles, I’m 21 years old and I come from Romania, but have been living in the Netherlands for the past two and a half years. I would describe myself as a very ambitious and passionate person academically. Outside of the university, I enjoy more artistic activities such as painting, going to the theatre, watching movies, but also doing sports. Other than that, I am also deeply interested in deep psychology.

2. You’re currently joining the FEB Honours Bachelor programme. Could you tell us about the programme?

I consider the programme to be very diverse as it offers both deepening and broadening courses through various forms, such as skill courses, research seminars, workshops, etc. Until now, I have deeply enjoyed taking courses outside of my curriculum, International Business, such as Social Aspects of Sustainability and From Small to Large Life. I believe that the opportunity to expand our knowledge outside of the margins of our general studies is truly not to be missed. This academic variety is followed by a truly unique social group, as honours students get the chance to work together with other fellow students from different programmes. I can confidently state that I have always enjoyed speaking and working with honours teammates, as they have different perspectives. When we collaborate and share all of our different ideas, we end up with better quality assignments and new perspectives to apply in our normal curriculum. Perhaps, the best way I can describe Honours College is an oasis of knowledge.

3. Why did you apply for this programme?

My motivation for applying to this programme is deeply rooted in my cultural background. Being an international student and due to the academic environment back in my home country, I have always wanted to strive for excellence and better myself. The Honours programme was a perfect chance to achieve that. Furthermore, the opportunity to study courses from other faculties was extremely appealing.

4. What do you like most about this programme? (And could you give us some examples of FEB Honours projects?)

Although I have initially associated this programme with academic excellence, I have come to realize that it is much more than that. What I have enjoyed the most so far were the experiences I made working together with other ambitious students and teachers who were truly invested in teaching us. One very important project through which I have truly understood what it means to conduct research was the Research Practical. The teacher that guided me was very passionate about the subject and this influenced me in discovering the importance of not only attaining good results, but also liking what you are doing. I plan on pursuing this mindset for the future.

5. What has the Honours programme brought you so far?

Besides the immense amount of knowledge and academic skills that I have acquired and already utilized while writing my thesis, it has thought me the very important lesson of pursuing what you are passionate about. By doing that, you are more likely to be motivated and put in more effort towards a good outcome.

6. What are your plans for the future?

For now, I am indecisive regarding my future Master’s field. I have always had an affinity for Human Resource Management, but after being part of the Honours College I became interested in Research. I will attend an exchange semester starting March 2022, where I will take courses focused on these subjects. I hope they will bring me more clarity and will help me decide. Nevertheless, I defiantly want to continue my studies.