Get to know Thomas
Thomas grew up in a place that used to be a very rural and backwards area in Germany. Now it is one of the most prosperous. In that surprising development, the state and its public administration played and continue to play a major role, even though most stories will downplay this part. That is why, in his research at KU Leuven, he studies the pursuit of public interest and developmental goals in government contracting and grantmaking.
Learn about Sci-Fi Club
Sci-Fi Leuven has a core of about 12 regulars. With people coming and going (hello, academia!), the core group keeps on drawing fresh blood. Usually, there will be 8 regulars and four new people at any event. As an organizer, Thomas always makes an effort to include new people, and it works! Check out the IHL meetup site for more info on our next events.
Would you like to join the group?
Keep an eye on our events page to find out when the next gathering will take place.
His advice to internationals
"You know those situations where something happens and it bothers you, and you think it is about their culture? I believe these kinds of judgments tend to say more about us than about those situations. As internationals, we can learn a lot about our culture of origin in that way. For example, German culture is a bit more secular and individualistic than Belgian culture (Inglehart–Welzel Cultural Map). Many times, my judgment about people’s motivations or intentions taught me a lot about my very individualistic frame of mind and values."
Quickfire Quiz
Waffels or chocolate?
Chocolate
Best thing about Leuven?
It’s a global village
Favorite thing to do locally?
Enjoying some mussels à volonté at Lunch Garden
Friday market or Heverlee market?
Rotisserie chicken at the Friday market
Introvert or extrovert?
Ambivert
One word your friends would use to describe you?
Based
