My name is Kristyn van der Veen, I fulfill the role of Chairman within the current TeMa Board. If you are reading this, you probably already know who I am, because as the Chairman I am 'the face of the association'. In this blog, I will tell you about the position of Chairman that I have enjoyed performing since July 2021. Would you like to step in my shoes? Then read on!
What my week looks like
All TeMa board members can be found at Zernike in the TeMa ‘office’ every day between 10:00 and 17:00. Except on Fridays, then I'm working at my side job. That is the advantage of a part-time board year: there is still some money flowing into the drawer. ;)
We have board meetings twice a week. I prepare the agenda in advance, and during the meeting I am the one who leads the conversation. In addition to meetings with our Board, I also have monthly meetings with a.o. the chairmen of other FEB study associations, the Operations department and our TeMa Advisory Board.
What my daily tasks are
My role is actually very diverse. I always know from Gwen, Jasper, Emil and Ruben what he or she is doing, and I support them when necessary. I always do this with great enthusiasm. This is how I try to convey positive energy, because my job is also to motivate my fellow board members. Most importantly, as Chairman I have a strategic mindset. I ensure that TeMa takes steps with regard to the Strategic Plan, and I oversee the long-term consequences of certain decisions.
What qualities suit a Chairman
I don't like to think of myself as 'the Chairman', but I do have a number of qualities that I think are important to possess in my position. I naturally take the lead within a group. When I would compare it to doing a group assignment: I am the person who proposes to tackle a question in a certain way and divides the tasks. The trick is not to convince someone that you are right, but to be able to bring forward the best idea or result from a group discussion, by listening carefully and responding deliberately.
In addition, being able to keep a good overview is very important as Chair. Because as chairman I am ultimately responsible for everything: if someone else fails to do something, I can be held accountable by TeMa members or external parties.
Finally, be able to confidently stand in front of a group. I am also not someone who is eager to give presentations, but I certainly dare to demand attention and give a speech. With the necessary adtjes that go with it, of course. ;)
What I like most about being Chairman of TeMa
Communication and leadership skills are examples of important skills I have acquired, but I especially have a lot of fun with Ruben, Emil, Jasper, Gwen and the other (active) TeMa members. I get to know so many new people. I'm busy, but only with fun things. Compared to a normal year of studying, I develop myself in many more areas. This is definitely the best year of my student time!
