Mirthe Boomsma
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Mirthe Boomsma
On September 8, 2021, she received her doctoral degree.‘I think TiSEM provided me with a fantastic place to learn from great researchers.’
The title of her dissertation is: On the transition to a sustainable economy: Field experimental evidence on behavioral interventions. Supervisor: Prof. D.P. van Soest; co-supervisor: Dr. B.A. Vollaard
What was your research about?
I researched the impact of behavioral interventions on waste sorting and energy conservation using field experiments. In these domains, increased environmental conservation has the potential to substantially reduce social costs. But at the same time, we expect habits to play an important role which raises questions regarding whether the impact will persist over time. I analyzed whether behavioral interventions could be effective instruments to induce persistent environmental conservation. In my dissertation I provide 3 examples of effective interventions that manage to do so: social feedback letters, a persuasive appeal and a display that provides energy consumption feedback.
How do you look back on your time as a PhD student at TiSEM?
I am really glad I decided to pursue a PhD at Tilburg University. I think TiSEM provided me with a fantastic place to learn from great researchers. I have really enjoyed the informal atmosphere, and consider many of the PhD colleagues close friends. I felt really motivated to develop myself as a PhD student in this environment.
Where are you working now?
After my PhD, I decided to move to the private sector. I am currently working as a Global Reporting and Analytics consultant in an international company that provides businesses with financial solutions. Like in my research, I work with data, and translate data from multiple sources into meaningful insights. However, the way to do so is vastly different. In my current role, I build Power BI reports that visualize data, and need to understand the whole chain from source to report to support colleagues with regard to their information and reporting needs.
In my new role, I certainly benefit from the skills that the PhD taught me. I am an analytic thinker, am able to work independently and perseverant.
What would you like to convey to current TiSEM PhD students?
The PhD is a long trajectory, and it is not always an easy one. Focus on your own development and be proud of your achievements (even when your progress feels insignificant)! Keep on moving forward, even if you are taking small steps, and you will get there.