Recruitment & Selection
As Internal Relations, Emma van der Meer is responsible for the recruitment and selection of all active members within MARUG. From the first interest conversation to the final committee placements, she ensures that motivated students find a role that truly suits them.
Throughout the year, she organizes recruitment activities, hosts information sessions, and speaks one-on-one with students who are considering becoming active. Her focus is not only on motivation, but also on team fit, commitment, and personal development. Together with the rest of the board, she carefully assesses applications to guarantee a fair and thoughtful selection process.
Emma explains: “When you’re speaking with someone who is interested, you can really feel and see their enthusiasm. That’s when you know whether a certain committee is the right fit for them.”
By interviewing every applicant personally, she ensures that everyone gets a fair opportunity to share their story and motivation.
Creating Enthusiasm & Engagement
Internal Relations is about more than simply filling committee spots. It is about creating excitement and maintaining engagement throughout the year. By staying in close contact with committees and supporting members along the way, Emma helps foster a strong sense of belonging within MARUG.
According to Emma, one of the highlights of her board year has been: “Seeing new members grow in their roles and fully integrate into their teams. Watching them develop confidence and really find their place within MARUG has been incredibly rewarding.”
A Central Role Within the Board
The Internal Relations position places you at the heart of the board. You collaborate closely with every board member and act as a bridge between committees and the board. This makes the role dynamic, people-oriented, and highly impactful.
It also offers valuable experience in leadership, recruitment, communication, and organizational management skills that are directly relevant for many future career paths.
A Board Year as an Enrichment of Your Student Life
A common question students have is whether a board year leaves any room for personal life. Emma emphasizes that it absolutely does. “Of course, a board year requires commitment, but you still have time for your friends, family, and other activities outside of MARUG. It’s about finding a balance.”
In fact, many board members describe their board year as a true enrichment of their student life. You develop professionally, grow personally, and build friendships that often last far beyond your term. As Emma puts it: “A board year challenges you in the best way possible. You learn so much about yourself, gain practical experience, and create friendships that will stay with you long after the year is over.”
Why Apply?
Emma’s advice to students who are unsure about applying is simple: “Just go for it. If you’re even slightly interested, have a coffee talk and explore the possibilities. You won’t regret taking that step.”
If you are passionate about working with people, building strong teams, and shaping the future of MARUG, this could be your opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Interested after reading Emma’s story? Talk to your friends and family about the opportunity and see how it fits into your plans. The board is always open for a coffee chat to tell you more about the position.
The Internal Relations position for the upcoming board year is already open, with the application deadline on March 22. Are you ready to take the next step?