Jona Overmars
Education: Public administration. Key words: Social development - public service – research and policy. Description: Enthusiastic person in her twenties, with a keen eye for the society.
Where have you been working the past two years?
I worked in three different municipalities, both small and large. I worked at the Building and Environment Division, at Social Development (care, welfare, education, culture, sports) and public affairs. I got acquainted with the ‘entire’ municipality, as it were!
Why work in the Arnhem-Nijmegen region?
What could be better than working for your own city or region? This region is urbanizing at a rapid pace, yet it still preserves its green and diverse environment. Therefore, in the field of town and country planning as well as on social policy areas, there are many interesting questions that need responding to. If you work in this region, you yourself can contribute to these policies!
Do you enjoy working for a municipality?
Definitely! Many of the policies are established on a provincial, national or European level, but when they are actually carried out, then they really come to life. Besides, you can expect some serious challenges, even though you have completed an academic education.
Does your education prove useful at work?
More and more! I can connect many of the subjects I deal with and things that happen around me with theories I learned in social administration. Setting out policies often starts with research and solid problem analysis, and the educational knowledge I have proves more than useful.
Would you recommend doing a traineeship?
If you would want to work with several different organisations or departments in a short period of time: absolutely. You will develop rapidly, will gain broad experience, and will get to know a lot of people. But if you want to study something in depth and specialise, then you will have to find a job where you can work for a longer period of time!
