Meet Berber Verhalle, new W&N student assessor
Since September 2024, Berber Verhalle has been the new student assessor for W&N, succeeding Nalani Verwoord. Berber is a first-year Master’s student in Biology & Business and is now the representative of the students at our faculty.
Opening a building on your first day at work? Berber’s first day as a student assessor was immediately a memorable one. Standing next to Constantijn van Oranje, she cut the ribbon to officially open the building.
In the coming year, Berber will focus on three main themes: sustainability, student wellbeing, and visibility. ‘I believe it is important that every student feels heard and knows where to go with their questions, comments, or ideas.’ To achieve this, she often visits the study associations and De Fusie, hoping to gather input from as many students as possible.
Sustainability is her second key pillar. She aims to strengthen collaboration with LUGO (Leiden University Green Office). ‘They have some promising initiatives that I would love to help bring to life within our faculty.’ By improving the visibility of the university’s services, Berber hopes to make it easier for students to find their way and access the information and support they need.
Something different from field and lab work
Since September, Berber has been working as a student assessor, a role that suits her well. ‘During my Biology studies, I realised that field and lab work weren’t quite my thing, so I started looking for internships and other opportunities. Through that, I learned a lot about working life and how I can develop myself. I now want to use those experiences to make an impact for the students.’
‘Don’t hesitate to get in touch’
Finally, Berber has a message for all students and staff at the faculty: ‘Don’t hesitate to reach out if you see me in the hallway or to send me a message. I’m happy to make time for you.’