Marcellinus Andreas Maria Groot Koerkamp

Head of Mathematics

Education

• MSc in Physics, the Netherlands

Bio
I am from The Netherlands, where I studied physics. After that, I worked for a couple of years as a physicist, at a university and in a hospital. I made a career switch towards education and never regretted that step. I have been a teacher of physics but mostly mathematics. Strangely enough, I did hardly any of my teaching in The Netherlands but worked mainly at international schools. I like the extra benefits that this brings, such as discovering new countries and cultures and I enjoy working together with people from different backgrounds. 
I am married happily to Jolanda, we do not have any children. In my free time, I like walking, reading and listening to music.

What is the favourite part of the course you teach?
I mostly like the applied maths, maybe that also has to do with my background as a physicist. 

Which teaching method do you prefer and why?
I like an open atmosphere where students feel free to ask questions or make remarks at any time. I want them to be involved in discovering new knowledge as much as possible. 

What advice would you give to a student of your subject?
Do not give up when questions or topics become difficult but rather try to enjoy the challenge. If other people can do/understand it, then why not you. Note however that nothing happens without determination and a lot of hard work.

Who is your role model or mentor or who inspires you?
I am inspired by any person who sacrifices him/herself to make life better for others. Like people campaigning for a more equal sustainable world with equal rights for all

What is your life motto?
Enjoy life, but just as important, make life enjoyable for others.

What are the three things you can't imagine your life without?
My wife Jolanda, my music and my legs (I like walking). 

What do you like to do in your spare time?
Going for long walks, reading, watching sports (football) or listening to music (rock).