From DJ booth to boardroom: meet the new assessor of Leiden Science
A passion for science and for students: that is exactly what Anniek Bodewes will bring to her new role as student assessor for the Faculty of Science from 1 September. ‘Over the coming year, I want to listen to students, think along with them and make sure their voices are heard.’
Anniek (26), who succeeds Tim van Surksum, has already followed an impressive academic path. She completed bachelor's degrees in Medicine and Biology and is currently studying for the master's programme Biology and Science Communication and Society. ‘After three years of studying Biology, I realised I wanted to do something more people oriented. I still love science, but I also wanted to focus more on the people behind the science.’ She found that combination in her current master's programme.
From secretary to DJ
Anniek has already gained valuable board experience. In 2025, she served as secretary of Leiden’s introduction week EL CID, where she was responsible for areas including organisation, participant administration and contracts. She will be involved again this year, this time as a venue manager as well as a DJ. ‘I usually DJ at house parties, but during EL CID I’ll be playing together with someone else. I’m really looking forward to it!’
Free menstrual products at the Faculty of Science? Anniek hopes so
Why did Anniek want to become student sssessor? ‘I enjoy working with lots of different people and I’d like to gain even more governance experience. I don’t see myself working in a laboratory forever, so I want to broaden my horizons.’ Over the coming year, she wants to focus on issues that directly affect students. Clear communication is high on her list of priorities, as are diversity, inclusion and social safety. Sometimes improvements can be very practical too. ‘At Leiden Law, for example, free tampons and sanitary towels are available in the women’s toilets. I think that would also be a great step for our faculty.’
Looking forward to working with people across the faculty
Over the coming year, students can approach Anniek with questions, ideas or concerns about the faculty. Whether someone is considering changing degree programme or simply wants to talk about something, her door will always be open. She is particularly looking forward to working with the student associations, collaborating with the other assessors and taking her place at the faculty board table. ‘It’s definitely exciting because there will be so many new things to learn. But that’s exactly why I’m so excited to get started.’
Questions for our new assessor?
Got a question for Anniek? Email her at assessor@science.leidenuniv.nl or drop by for a chat!