Get to know... Merel!
After graduating in July 2024 from the Animal Management course at Van Hall Larenstein, University of Applied Sciences in Leeuwarden, she started looking for her first real job. This search was successful, because since May 2025 Merel joined our team! She would love to introduce herself.
“My love for animals started at a young age – as a result, I soon spent a lot of time with horses. Besides animal care, biology has always caught my interest. Although I completed pre-university education (VWO), I noticed that I get more energy from working practically. That is why I chose to study a BSc in Animal Management, which focuses on working with animals in farms, equestrian centers, veterinary clinics and animal shelters," she explains.
For my studies, I moved to Leeuwarden five years ago, as I am originally from Heerhugowaard (North-Holland). Currently I live with my boyfriend in Leeuwarden. When I saw the vacancy at NIFA, I immediately became enthusiastic. After an on-the-job training day, I knew for sure, this is a great opportunity! I have been working as Sales Assistant since May. Together with my colleagues I support our customers, help with questions and place orders, manage the mailbox and answer phone calls. There is a good chance you will speak to me when you call us,” she laughs. “But I am not just in the office. In the past few weeks, I have joined my colleagues Corine and Linda on a couple of field days. I find reproduction really interesting, and it is great to see how our technology can really make a difference", tells Merel. At NIFA I will be trained all-round so I can explore what suits me best. In this way I learn a lot and can choose my own direction."
In her spare time, Merel enjoys spending time with her horse. She loves peace, space and nature and especially enjoys it during walks or reading a good book. She also likes to relax with a drink and good food.
