Features, Health

From Taboo to Trend: The Normalization of Trauma and Its Downsides

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, the term “trauma” has been an important topic of discussion among young people seeking a sense of belonging to a group. This trend manifests itself on social networks, where many influencers share their traumatic experiences and so-called “experts” offer advice on mental health. What was originally a taboo subject treated only by a certain elite – that of various psychiatrists, psychologists, … Continue reading From Taboo to Trend: The Normalization of Trauma and Its Downsides

Isola Andiseï
Amsterdam, background story

“Welcome to introvert happy hour”

The book club where people come together to read in silence. In Amsterdam, the Silent Book Club has been meeting once a month for nearly two years and has steadily grown in popularity over time.  The Silent Book Club (SBC) began in 2012 with a couple of friends in San Francisco, California. Fast-forward a decade and the volunteer-led club now has chapters in approximately 300 … Continue reading “Welcome to introvert happy hour”

Kalle Bergman
background story, Perception

Language learning: fostering human bonds

By Josie Makkink As the sun sets, the evening rays shine through the rustic open windows of the Dutch Language Café in the Hague. Roben Scholten (33) is the founder of this language group, which has grown to 100 members since its launch three years ago. “I started the Dutch Language Café when I came back from a trip to Spain. I worked in a … Continue reading Language learning: fostering human bonds

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Art, background story

“More important than a relationship”

Lena Jager (28) is from Amsterdam and she has found the perfect connection with her dancing partner. Having great chemistry with her dancing partner is extremely important to Lena, as she is competing on a high level in the Netherlands and internationally.  Dancing is a big part of Lena’s life, however she also works as a pediatric nurse at an ICU. She started dancing at … Continue reading “More important than a relationship”

Kalle Bergman
background story

Beyond the confines of monogamy

When we picture a romantic relationship, we imagine an emotional partnership between two people. Monogamy is seen as the norm, but many people do not fit this standard relationship type. Martin (27) and Lark (28) are in a polyamorous relationship, which means they can date other people.    Martin and Lark both live and work in The Hague. Martin has been working as a bioinformatician … Continue reading Beyond the confines of monogamy

Wessel Vis
Uncategorized

Student associations complete college experiences

Story by Anouk Huijbrechtse, Photos by Lana Schut Melanie Flohil (23) is a fourth-year commercial economics student in Amsterdam. At 23, she’s already rocking it as a board member at student association Marco, making sure everyone has a great time. Marco brings students together with a whole bunch of activities. Whatever you’re looking for, Marco’s got your back. Networking opportunities Student associations provide an opportunity … Continue reading Student associations complete college experiences

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Berlin

Finally Smoking Pot Legally? Germany’s Plan to Legalise Cannabis

By Eamon O’Callaghan and Leonie Kupferschmidt The secret exchange of baggies filled with weed could soon be a thing of the past in Berlin, with the German government planning to legalise Cannabis. Such a change brings with it the potential for broad societal and economic impacts: What is the current state of legalisation and how could it affect the economy and society? Experts from business … Continue reading Finally Smoking Pot Legally? Germany’s Plan to Legalise Cannabis

Leonie Kupferschmidt