Why did you choose to study at the University of Strathclyde?
I am a professional genealogist and that has been my full-time career since 2015. I graduated with a law degree thirty years ago, and that qualification benefited me greatly in my subsequent career. However, it was not particularly helpful for a genealogist, so I felt the need to seek out more relevant programmes in genealogy and family history. As there was a lack of high-quality training for genealogists in the Netherlands, I had to look for educational opportunities in other countries. After undertaking some courses and training sessions at a more practical level in the United States, in 2020, I decided to enrol in the programme at the University of Strathclyde. I had previously considered the University of Strathclyde in 2018, but at the time, I felt the leap was too big. Ultimately, I decided that I wanted to challenge myself and add an extra, solid layer to my educational background.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
In my work, I primarily use sources from the Low Countries (Belgium and the Netherlands). Unsurprisingly, these sources were not given much attention at Strathclyde where I mainly studied sources and topics related to England and Scotland. . People around me asked if it was wise for me to take this course and whether I was enjoying it. After all, what use would it be in my daily work? On the contrary, I found it very interesting to learn more about records from other countries as it allowed me to see things from a broader perspective. This also applied to other aspects of the programme. For example, until recently, I often approached my work practically, from how do I do research, what sources are available, how do I write a report, and so on. My studies at the University of Strathclyde showed me how genealogy can also be used for historical research. Fortunately, this idea was further reinforced when a professor in the Netherlands retired and promoted using research into individuals and families as the basis for studying historical events and developments in past societies. What I have always appreciated in genealogy is connecting with others who share the same passion. During my studies, I was able to connect with tutors as well as with genealogists in various countries. I found it a pleasure to exchange ideas and learn from each other. And because I love challenges, I have always been passionate about palaeographic puzzles. I really enjoyed working on them during this programme as well.
What advice would you give to a prospective student coming to study your course?
Make sure to consider whether you can dedicate enough time to complete this programme alongside your work, family or other commitments. Many people underestimate the time required for this programme and it is not something you can simply squeeze in to an already busy lifestyle. During my years studying at the University of Strathclyde, I made sure I scheduled my study on dedicated days. This helped to structure my work week effectively, with fixed times to focus on reading and completing assignments. Besides making time for the programme, it is also important to have a good (physical) space where you can sit and work. During your programme, there will be periods that require a lot of reading and studying as well as assignments (mainly on the computer). This usually does not work well in a very busy environment.
What specialist knowledge or professional skills have you developed studying your course?
I can imagine that students who work or wish to work with English or Scottish sources will acquire a great deal of new knowledge from this programme. I have gained that knowledge as well, but due to my location and the work that I do, I will benefit less from it. However, I do not consider that to be a negative. What has been very valuable for me is the transition I have made from practical genealogy to genealogy on an academic level. In my opinion, scholars have regarded genealogists with some disdain for too long. Fortunately, this has improved in recent years. The University of Strathclyde plays a key role in this, and I am very pleased to have been a small part of it. I will certainly cherish both worlds. For my clients, the research and the report I provide must be understandable and thus often practical, but the desire to use family history for broader historical research has certainly been encouraged by this programme.
How is your course helping to enhance your current career and prepare you for your future career?
The programme has helped my current work is in a completely different way. Thanks to this study, I was also able to become a member of the Register of Qualified Genealogists. This society not only connects me with other genealogists, but also has a directory where potential clients can find me. It is a way to promote myself and my products as a professional genealogist.
On my genealogical bucket list is still the wish to pursue a PhD someday. That is certainly not a short-term goal, but one for the future. The program at the University of Strathclyde is an excellent stepping stone. The academic approach I learned here will certainly benefit me in such an endeavour, whether it is through the University of Strathclyde's special PhD program or through a program at another (Dutch?) university.
What are your ambitions for the future and how do you think your time at Strathclyde will help you achieve your goals?
Genealogy is a second career for me, and I consider it a gift that I can make people happy through the results of my research. I do not have any real ambitions, but I definitely want to continue doing what I love and what helps others to understand their past. If I may dream, I would be thrilled to see genealogy become a fully-fledged program at a Dutch university and to be asked to teach there. If that ever happens, the foundation of that new career also lies in the program I undertook at the University of Strathclyde.
Any final points, or words of wisdom?
This program is rigorous and requires dedication and effort. Do not think it is like the courses or training you might have undertaken before; it is a real university programme. Take it seriously, but also enjoy it and know that it is definitely worth everything you put into it!
