New podcast episode: Alumni Experience: Navigating Health, Social Impact, and Interdisciplinary Connections with Ece Aydın

The new UCG podcast dropped, where UCG alumna Ece Aydın reflects on how her studies in health and life sciences shaped her career. She shares key experiences, including a project on improving health literacy at a hospital in Assen, and the lasting friendships that continue to support her today. Ece discusses how UCG’s interdisciplinary approach and focus on independence prepared her for her role at Health-Ecore, where she addresses health inequalities. She also offers advice to new students: take risks, find a work-life balance, and make the most of UCG's unique learning environment.

When you began your studies, did you already know what you wanted to focus on? Could you tell us about your academic journey?

I always knew I wanted to pursue health and life sciences, so I made sure to take almost all the recommended classes. In my first year, I had two electives, and in addition to those, I took research courses. In the second half of that year, I started courses in human anatomy, physiology, and related subjects. Then came the project, and I continued to take courses focused on topics like the living cell and genetics. I also had a few lab courses in my second year. In my third year, I decided to pursue a minor focused on promoting healthy aging, and after that, I focused on my project and thesis.

You mentioned working on projects with clients during your studies. Can you explain how that worked and what you learned?

Yes, during my minor, we worked on real-world projects with clients like hospitals and research centers. One project was about health literacy at the Wilhelmina Hospital in Assen. We found that many patients struggle to understand doctor’s instructions, follow medication plans, or manage their conditions, which leads to patients returning to the hospital repeatedly due to recurring health issues. We investigated the issue and made recommendations to the hospital, such as simplifying materials and training staff to identify patients with low health literacy. The goal was to ensure patients understood their treatment plans better, which could help reduce readmissions and improve health outcomes.

What initially drew you to UCG, and how did your expectations align with or differ from the reality of studying there?

I was interested in studying in the Netherlands and, when I looked into different cities, I found Groningen to be very student-friendly. A high school friend who had studied here also recommended it, so I decided to apply. I was also considering programs in Biology and Biomedical Sciences but chose UCG because of its small-scale learning approach. The smaller class sizes, compared to other programs, meant more interaction with both professors and students, which I found appealing. This environment met my expectations, and I appreciated being able to engage closely with professors and get direct feedback.

Can you share any memorable academic moments or projects from your time at UCG?

The minor I did was definitely a highlight, especially because of the practical experience it provided. Additionally, I really enjoyed the third-year project, where we had the freedom to create a project on topics of our choice. We organized a panel discussion on freedom, social media, and humor in collaboration with the Amnesty student group. It was a great opportunity to work on something meaningful. Writing my thesis was another memorable experience. I saw it as my personal project, which allowed me to explore a topic deeply and shape my research the way I wanted.

What was your thesis about?

My thesis focused on necrotizing enterocolitis, a serious condition affecting premature babies, and whether placental issues in mothers contribute to the development of the disease. I worked with a gynecologist and neonatologist from the University Medical Center in Groningen. It was a medical statistical study, and although challenging, I really enjoyed the process. It was the first time I had worked with medical data on that scale, and I appreciated the opportunity to dive into such a complex topic.

How did UCG’s interdisciplinary approach influence your learning and thinking process, both during your time there and now?

At first, I didn’t fully appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of UCG, especially with COVID disrupting the first few years. I didn’t realize its full impact until my master’s. I studied Clinical and Psychosocial Epidemiology, which was a very interdisciplinary program combining psychiatry, psychology, public health, and policy. UCG helped me think outside the boundaries of one discipline, and this was crucial in my master’s, where I worked on research that crossed multiple fields. I found that UCG prepared me well to approach complex issues from different angles, which was especially helpful when dealing with interdisciplinary feedback during my thesis.

How did UCG help you develop as a person and push your limits?

UCG helped me become more independent and confident. The academic structure encouraged me to take ownership of my learning, engage with professors and peers, and develop critical thinking skills. Outside the classroom, UCG offered many opportunities to grow—whether through joining committees, starting initiatives, or engaging with a diverse community. The city of Groningen also contributed to my growth, with its vibrant student life and many different events. UCG taught me how to balance academics with personal life, manage my time, and take initiative. By the time I graduated, I felt more self-reliant, confident in decision-making, and better prepared to handle challenges.

How did UCG prepare you for your career, and what are you working on now?

After UCG, I pursued a two-year research master’s in Clinical and Psychosocial Epidemiology at UMCG. UCG helped me realize my interest in health from a social and policy perspective, which led me to focus on global health during my master's. I did an internship with an NGO working on sexual and reproductive health rights in Africa, and I realized I wanted to focus on health inequalities in low-income contexts. Now, I’m working at Health-Ecore, a health consultancy based in Groningen, where I’m involved in a project on migrant and adolescent perspectives of the Dutch healthcare system. UCG prepared me by helping me develop both academic and soft skills, such as teamwork, communication, and critical thinking, which have been invaluable in my career.

Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently during your time at UCG?

Yes, I think I would have tried to make more friends in my first year. When I started, I got quite comfortable with a small group of two or three really close friends, and I ended up spending almost all my time with them. In hindsight, I realize I could have made more of an effort to talk to other people and expand my circle. I was a bit shy, so I mostly waited for others to reach out to me. But I think it would have been nice to be a little more proactive in socializing, especially in that first year when everyone is still figuring things out. I guess I was just a bit cautious, but looking back, I could have stepped outside of my comfort zone a bit more and met more people.

How have the relationships you built at UCG influenced your journey after graduation, and do you see yourself collaborating with your friends in the future despite being in different fields?

The friendships I made at UCG have really shaped my journey. I met two of my best friends there—one when we moved in together in my third year, and the other when she returned from an exchange year. Even though we’re in very different fields now—psychology, AI, and humanities—we’ve stayed close, supporting each other in different ways. These friendships have been a big part of my life after graduation. While I haven’t thought about collaborating yet, I can see the potential for it, especially with how fields like AI, psychology, and humanities overlap—especially in areas like mental health or human behavior. UCG really encouraged us to think beyond our own disciplines, and I wouldn't be surprised if we end up working together in the future.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out at UCG, or to your younger self looking back?

My biggest piece of advice would be to just go for it. There’s a saying that if you don’t try, you’re guaranteed a "no," but if you try, there’s always a chance for a "yes." Even if you’re unsure or worried about failing, the possibility of success is always there. Confidence comes from trying and learning from experience. Sometimes, it’s about pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and realizing you’re capable of more than you thought. Additionally, it’s important to find a work-life balance early on. University can be overwhelming, so figuring out when you work best and setting boundaries for personal time is key. The skills you develop at UCG—time management, teamwork, and problem-solving—will serve you well, both at university and in your career. Focus on working smarter, not just harder.

How would you describe your experience living and studying in Groningen? How did the city contribute to your overall experience?

I think Groningen is one of the best student cities you could ask for. It’s so vibrant, and the student life there is unlike any other place. There’s always something happening—whether it’s a cultural event, a concert, a lecture, or a sustainability project. The city really thrives on student energy. It feels like you’re part of a bigger community, not just in UCG, but in the entire city. Being a student there gives you access to so many different associations and activities, from theater groups like USFA to sustainability organizations and everything in between. It’s easy to get involved, and the people are so welcoming. Honestly, it felt like the perfect place to study because you’re constantly surrounded by opportunities to learn, meet new people, and grow both academically and personally. UCG and Groningen together really encouraged me to explore my passions and step out of my comfort zone.

Connect with Ece on Linkedin.