KLI Introduction Course 2025

On March 7th, the annual KLI Introduction event was hosted in Utrecht, welcoming 13 new KLI PhD members. The day was kicked off with coffee and cake, followed by informative presentations from the KLI research and teaching committee. Committee representatives Iris van Sintemaartensdijk (Research Committee Member, University of Twente) and Gert-Jan Lelieveld (Teaching Director, Leiden University) provided insights into the KLI’s structure and highlighted the diverse research and teaching opportunities available to KLI PhD members.

Taking advantage of the spring weather, attendees enjoyed an extended lunch break outside, fostering connections and exchanging experiences and perspectives on their PhD journeys. The afternoon session featured a talk by Ton Hol (KLI confidential advisor) who emphasized the importance of early communication with confidential advisors and mentors regarding supervisory challenges or ethical concerns that PhD candidates may have, as most issues are better solved early on. Eleni Giannakoudi (KLI PhD representative, University of Groningen) and Leon Hilbert (KLI Alumnus, University of Amsterdam) shared personal insights and practical advice on navigating supervision, maintaining well-being, and maximizing the PhD experience.

The day continued with an engaging walking tour through Utrecht, revealing the city’s rich history. We discovered fascinating details about iconic landmarks of the city, including Utrecht’s Dom Tower, and gained insights into how to recognize each Dutch city merely by its canals. At the end of the walking tour, all attendees agreed on one thing: it’s time to do a walking tour in their home cities as well and explore them with a fresh perspective. The day concluded with dinner at Vegitalian and ample time to socialize. Besides introducing the KLI to new PhD members, this day most importantly created space for PhD candidates across the Netherlands to connect and lay the foundation for a supportive professional network with peers who will share their academic journey in the years ahead.

Written by Eleni Giannakoudi, KLI PhD representative