Meet your colleague: Emilie Louise Holk

By SUND Kommunikation, sund-input@health.sdu.dk, 9/5/2024

Can you explain what your work involves?

I work with admissions to the undergraduate and graduate programmes in the health sciences. This means I help plan the uniTEST and the subject-specific entrance exams.

This year, we have had entrance exams for all the undergraduate programmes in various formats. For instance MMI (Multiple Mini Interview) for the Bachelor of Medicine programme, where PhD students and lecturers play a crucial role in assessing the applicants. It's a large operation, where we invite around 400 applicants to undergo four different tests. These tests might focus on ethical dilemmas, debates on health-related topics, or the applicants' motivation for applying.

Regarding the master's programmes, my department, SUND Education, is eagerly anticipating the Master's reform, which will undoubtedly bring about changes. Fortunately, at SUND, we are already well underway with the part-time Master's programmes, which are growing, and this year we have enrolled a record number of students.

Additionally, I also work with the social aspect of student orientation, where I hire social tutors. They have an essential task in helping new students build relationships and feel comfortable at SDU.

How long have you been working at SDU? Have you been here "off and on"?

I have been employed in the same department for 10 years, and my office mate and I just celebrated our 10-year anniversary together. We marked the occasion with our wonderful colleagues, many of whom we have known for the entire 10 years. And, of course, with brunsviger (Danish cake).

What is the very best part about your job?

Without a doubt, the social aspect. I really enjoy the time and collaboration with both students and colleagues.

Could you share a work task you've completed that you're particularly proud of?

The entrance exams in quota 2 always bring an added sense of pride and joy. A whole year’s work culminates in a single day, involving many different contributors. It’s fantastic to be part of creating the structure and offering young people the chance to get into their dream degree programme – even if they don’t have the top grades from sixth form.

I also hear from my colleagues across the faculty that they enjoy lending a hand and experiencing the distinctive atmosphere on the day.

What is your educational background – how did you end up in this job?

I hold a Master’s degree in Business Administration (cand.merc.) in International Business Development from SDU. Six months after graduating, I started as an international coordinator at the Faculty of Health Sciences, but when a position in admissions became available, I jumped at the chance – and I’ve never regretted it.

What other career paths have you considered?

Many as a child. Top of the list was probably zookeeper. However, I haven't ventured further down that path than getting myself a dog, Herman, whom I always make sure to clean up after!

What do you do in your spare time?

I play volleyball in the 1st division for Odense Volley. Volleyball has been a big part of my life throughout my youth, and I still play the sport with great passion, even though I don’t train as often anymore.

I also play tennis and padel, and I enjoy spending time with friends and family.

Have you seen/read/listened to anything good recently that you would recommend?

The TV series “The Bear,” which is on Max. Otherwise, I tend to get drawn into reality shows, especially Married at First Sight at the moment.

I’ve also just read the novel Kun til navlen by Linea Maja Ernst. It’s funny and deals with some very current themes.

What is your favorite  place to visit or travel to?

I don't have a favourite destination as such, but I enjoy active holidays combined with good food and wine.

This summer’s trip to Alsace and Champagne was a big hit, and I’m looking forward to going on my second skiing holiday this winter, which will be in Sweden with my partner and good friends.

What is your favourite place at SDU and why?

The outdoor areas around SUND on a sunny day, where lunch can be enjoyed in peace and quiet.