'Cool that the sensor course brought knowledge from all over the world to Assen'

For Joost Lenten, studying is a continuous quest for new knowledge. After obtaining his bachelor's degree in Sensor Engineering at the Hanze, he took the step to obtain a master's degree in Smart System Engineering. Joost: 'An English study, working with new technology, on a nice small scale: I was immediately convinced.

Picky
'I had just turned 17 when I left secondary school and, actually, I had not yet decided which study would suit me. I had been to several colleges, but nowhere had I found the right fit. Until, during an open day, I came across Sensor Technology at the Hanze, location Assen. An English-taught study, internationally oriented, new technology. Exactly what I had in mind.'

Knowledge from all over the world
'What also appealed to me was the small-scale and personal set-up. We started with thirty freshmen, a close-knit group. My fellow students came from the United States, China and Latvia, among others: it's very instructive that you learn to work with different cultures. It's also cool that the programme brought sensor knowledge from all over the world to Assen. I have had lectures from experts in Brazil, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.'

From stress meter to greenhouse
'What stays with you are the relevant projects you can work on at the Hanze. For example, we worked for the UMCG on a stress meter. I was also involved in research into the application of sensors in greenhouse horticulture. How do you use sensors to create the optimal conditions for plants? It's really interesting to contribute to a piece of innovation.'

Feeling at home
'I felt at home from the start. This was also because there was a lot of attention for my personal development. If I ran into any issue, I could always turn to my study supervisor. Because most of my studies took place during corona time, it was nice to have that guidance. And despite all the restrictions, I was able to do a great final internship with a developer of Visual Intelligence solutions.' 

Smart System Engineering
'I have obtained my bachelor's degree, but I am not done learning. That is why I started the Master in Smart Systems Engineering. Yes, also at the Hanze. In one and a half years' time I will immerse myself in the world of machine learning, data analysis and algorithms. A nice sequel to sensor technology. And then...? Something in aviation seems interesting. I am open to everything that comes my way. My voyage of discovery is far from finished.'