Hello! I’m Meike, 23 years old, and I’ve been living in Groningen for over six years. I completed my bachelor’s in International Communication and decided to specialise further, which led me to the Faculty of Religion, Culture and Society. Alongside my studies, I’ve been actively involved with my swimming association. I am currently one of the Confidential Contact Person’s for Gerardus van der Leeuw, and I am a member of the Advisory Board. I also enjoy running, the gym and reading in my spare time. 

One of the modules I’ve taken this year is Religion, Gender and Sexuality, where we explored various topics at the intersection of religion and gender. This included discussions on gender inequality within religious traditions, but also different perspectives on theorising gender is and how it operates across the globe. We engaged in fascinating debates on the Western view of gender and its representation in religion, society, and politics. The courses offered by this faculty are unique; I found myself enthusiastic to attend every class, especially when addressing important and thought-provoking topics.

People often claim that religion or the study of religion is outdated and irrelevant. However, by studying the anthropology of religion and examining its role in diverse social contexts, you really see how embedded religion is in the way humans have structured society. It is present in everything we do: how we see human relations, how our legal systems are structured, and how we respond to questions such as gender equality, cultural diversity, and living together in a globalized world. In Western Europe, we often assume that religion has lost its relevance due to our exposure to secular societies, but this is far from true here and in many other parts of the world.

Studying the anthropology of religion broadens your perspective beyond your own surroundings, allowing you to see the practice of faith beyond what is familiar to you. It enables you to learn about global customs, norms, and legal systems, which is not only fascinating but also crucial for thriving in a multicultural society. I particularly enjoy the courses that focus on policy analysis and development.

After my Master’s, I would like to work in policy teams for humanitarian organizations, or governmental departments focusing on conflict resolution and equality. The electives I’ve chosen are already supporting my ambitions, and I look forward to gaining practical experience during my internship in February/March. I also plan to focus on these themes in my thesis.

The lecturers at the Faculty of Religion, Culture and Society genuinely take the time to understand students’ interests. They have been instrumental in helping me identify the right steps to pursue my goals. In addition to broadening my knowledge, the course is equipping me with skills, connections, and networks to actively work towards my aspirations.