Lecturer in the Spotlight: Bregje van der Heijden

Can you share a bit about your journey leading up to BUas? 

Bregje: ‘I joined BUas five years ago, but my path here has been anything but traditional. My background is in Spanish and Latin American studies, which I pursued in England. After that, I worked in development projects across Latin America and Africa. I was always on the move, a bit of a nomad.’ 

‘Eventually, life brought me back to the Netherlands, where I settled down with my family. We moved to the Breda area about a decade ago and ran an event venue on a family estate for several years.’ 

‘When we sold the business, I started thinking about my next steps. I realised I wanted to work in higher education. Even though I had no teaching experience, I applied to BUas, initially starting at the Service Desk. That role gave me insight into the organisation and eventually, I transitioned to being a study coach and lecturer in the Media department.’ 

What do you enjoy most about working in education?   

Bregje: ‘The most rewarding part of working with students is witnessing personal growth. In my classes, we explore professional identity and career management, but it is equally linked to personal development. I love seeing students take steps to discover who they are, identify their passions, and overcome challenges.’    

‘One of the best moments is when students achieve something they didn’t think possible. Whether it is realising a personal breakthrough or finding clarity about their professional path.' 

Who has been your biggest influence in your career? 

Bregje: ‘I would say my father has been a significant influence on me. He was a filmmaker and a person who embraced change without hesitation. He had a fearless ability to dive into the unknown, whether it was moving to a different country from one day to the next with no prior plan, or starting work on a doomed film project with hardly any funding—yet still with true passion and dedication.’  

‘That mindset has shaped my career too. I have never followed a fixed path. Instead, I have been open to opportunities and experiences, which has led me to where I am today.’   

What aspects of working at BUas do you find most fulfilling? 

Bregje: ‘I value the diversity of perspectives and experiences that BUas fosters. Working in such an environment enables me to engage with people from various cultures, learn new ways of thinking, and approach problems with a global mindset. Being part of such an inspiring and creative organisation is incredibly rewarding.’   

‘Additionally, in my role as a study coach, I have the opportunity to build deeper connections with students through one-on-one conversations. These moments go beyond the classroom, allowing me to truly understand and support them. It is so fulfilling to witness their growth, both as individuals and as future professionals.’   

What advice would you give to students aiming for a career in the industry? 

Bregje: ‘First and foremost, find your passion. At BUas, we help students uncover what truly excites them and aligns with their goals. I always encourage them to trust their instincts and pursue what feels right, even if it is different from what others are doing.’    

‘Don’t be afraid to explore your own voice and values. Ask yourself: “What drives me? What is my core?” Once you understand that, you can confidently carve out your own path in the industry. Keep in mind that there is no single path to success, only the one that is right for you.'