I am a very curious, eager to learn, but sometimes shy person. I live in the lovely city of Groningen, The Netherlands, and I've always loved to travel and explore the world. I've never traveled through CouchSurfing, so this will be a new experience for me.

I graduated in computer science, and have a full time job at the hospital in my city. In the spare time I have left, I am working out at the gym, listening to music wherever, playing drums, meditating, and playing video games. And I love dogs!

Occasionally I can be found volunteering at a place called Jimmy's; a place run by youth to support other youth with their ideas, questions or struggles. It is through here that I also joined a group of volunteers that organise an annual TEDxYouth event in the city.

My natural hair colour is blonde :)

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I was first introduced to CouchSurfing in 2011 when I was studying abroad in Finland where I met other exchange students from all over the world. One of them mentioned CouchSurfing and I thought it was an awesome concept. I signed up, but at the time didn't really have any time or resources anymore to go travel on my own. Now years later I do, and I want to experience more of the world.

Interests

My primary source of entertainment is music. I listen to music at almost every time of the day (even at night). My taste in music varies a lot, ranging from peaceful electronic ambient music, to aggressive metal. I've been playing drums for 2 years, but I have never played in a band or collaborated with other musicians.

Ever heard of lucid dreaming? It's basically when you are dreaming, you become aware that you are dreaming, and you can take control of it! I became more involved in it after attending a TEDxYouth event, where one of the speakers was a teacher in lucid dreaming. After following his workshop I became more fascinated with lucid dreaming and meditation, and I've been practising both ever since when I find the time.

I grew up playing a lot of video games. And while I still regularly enjoy them, they become less and less fulfilling. One day I thought 'If I can spend hours doing the same thing in a video game just to see some numbers increase in the end, then I can do that as well in real life'. And thats when I signed at my local fitness gym, and have been enjoying a workout 3-4 times a week.

• dogs
• fitness
• running
• working out
• meditation
• video games
• traveling
• music
• drums
• computer science
• teaching
• science
• volunteering

Music, Movies, and Books

My favourite music is from a band called Angels & Airwaves. I've always found their 'larger than life' style inspiring. It's the friendly rock/electronic sound combined with poetic lyrics that intrigues me.

My favourite movie is also produced by Angels & Airwaves. It's a short film called 'Love', accompanying the equally named two-part album. It attempts to show the importance of human connection in a thrilling way.

I find it hard to find the time to read, but when I do, I prefer non-fiction. My favourite book is called 'Don't love me, judge me'. It's an autobiography of the lead singer of a band that I listened to called Madina Lake. In short, he and his twin brother have lived rather ridiculous lives before reaching rock star fame, and his style of writing makes it by far the funniest book I've ever read. No other book has made me laugh out loud while reading.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Definitely making the sudden decision to study in Finland. I hadn't told anyone about that I was thinking of studying abroad, until I had already signed the papers.

Living and studying in Finland has basically kickstarted my life. Going from living very remotely with my parents, to living on my own with tons of other exchange students around. I've made friends all over the world, discovered a new way of living, and generally gained a much more open minded view of the world.

Teach, Learn, Share

Thinking about it, I don't really have a lot of 'offline' skills. Much of my work and experience requires a computer. And I am pretty much trying to stay away from computers while on holidays.

I'd love to share my life and discover other people's. Perhaps meet other musicians and learn to play together, even though I am not carrying my drum kit with me :).

What I Can Share with Hosts

I'd gladly offer my pair of hands to support in everyday tasks, and I can aid in the costs of hosting for me.

I will do my best to not take your offer for granted.

Countries I’ve Visited

England, Faroe Islands, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Mexico

Countries I’ve Lived In

Finland, Netherlands