Name:
Stefanie van Gemert

Country of Origin:
The Netherlands

Studying:
PhD in Comparative Literature at University College London

How you came to London?  
In September 2007, I moved from a tiny canal house in Amsterdam to Goodenough college to start my Mphil/PhD in Comparative Literature at UCL.

Why you chose to live in Goodenough College?
I had been on an exchange program previously at UCL and had passed Goodenough College several times.  I met up with some enthusiastic Goodenough members and as a result I researched it online and sent in my application.

What you think is special about Goodenough College?
The College is a beautiful building with an Oxford/Cambridge allure.  It is filled with intelligent, witty and friendly international  students. I find it comforting to come ‘home’ to them, fellow postgraduates who are all trying to find the balance between working and getting the most out of London life.

Your typical week at Goodenough?
I spend a lot of time at the Parsons Library at the College but to relax I take coffee breaks at Freddies with other fellow members or we might share a pizza nearby in Lamb’s Conduit Street. I also go for tennis and ballroom dancing lessons, which are organized by College members.

What Goodenough means to you?
We are located in the academic heart of London and near some trendy clubs so at  Goodenough I am able to combine my studies with an invigorating cultural and social life.