Saturday, 10 April 2010, was truly a day of excellence in every sense of the word for HUTAC. HUTAC-ers gathered at Utrecht University to experience, examine and reflect upon the idea of excellence and what this ever-changing concept means.
This was HUTAC’s first annual conference and offered numerous channels for members to explore and better understand the significance of excellence on an academic, professional and personal level. We learned from professionals in a wide range of fields, starting with Mrs. Trude Mass, who succeeded in politics and was the chairwoman of the Huygens Selection Committee.
During the rest of the morning we enjoyed parallel inspirational speeches (every participant had the chance to attend two). The speakers talked about their journeys to professional excellence as well as about their lives and personal experiences that defined who they are. Listening to them was truly inspiring!
After a tasty lunch, we also had the opportunity to further develop our professional skills in a series of workshops on time management, job hunting, presentation skills, networking and qualities of leadership. Each of the workshops contributed to skill development, going from simple tips, which can make a big difference, to relevant general considerations.
To close the event, we came together to enjoy a presentation by Nobel Prize winner, Gerard ‘t Hooft. Starting from his view and perception of excellence, he talked us through his childhood and shared his passion and excitement about the world of physics. Prof. ‘t Hooft’s presence during the event was remarkable and very much appreciated by all of us.
Equally as striking about the conference was the sense of community. We are an internationally diverse group of people with at least one thing in common: the search of excellence. During the coffee breaks, lunch, workshops and closing drinks, we got the chance to interact with academics and professionals from all over the world and were able to form a new network of contacts and friends.
Check out the brief programme below.
See a series of photos from the event.