How wonderful is it to be asked, right after the COVID crisis, to take on the prestigious role of beadle for a year? The list of PhD defenses and inaugural lectures was long. Another beadle was needed immediately, preferably a woman. After all, Leiden had never had a female beadle before.
I quickly familiarized myself with university customs: how does a PhD defense or an inaugural lecture proceed, what role do we play at the Dies Natalis and the Opening of the Academic Year? I was fitted for my own gown and cap. And then, I simply got to work. No need for them to remember my name; I am simply "Madam Beadle"…!
Now, three years have passed. I have learned so much, and it is truly fascinating and enjoyable to be a small cog in this part of the academic world.
