Stage for stories: (Well)being a student

At the Explore Breda Store, you step into the world of today's student. How do students survive in a world full of performance pressure, financial insecurity and the need for a safe study time? From January 22, discover the exhibition (Well)being a student, in which students share their stories, challenges and hopeful perspectives.

Student life often seems like a carefree time, but reality is a lot more complex for many. Even in Breda, students struggle with a shortage of affordable rooms and financial problems that make the future uncertain. Performance pressure is high, mental health is under pressure, and loneliness is a growing problem. Not everyone feels seen or welcome in the city: mbo students and others who experience inequality of opportunity are still fighting for their place. In addition, issues such as substance use and social safety can sometimes affect the perception of a safe study time.

The idea for this exhibition originated with Raimke Groothuizen, author of the book Fairy Tale Book for Students and teacher at Avans Hogeschool. In collaboration with Verbeter Breda, Urban Living Lab Breda and involved education professionals from Curio, De Rooi Pannen, Breda University of Applied Sciences (BUas) and Avans Hogeschool, this initiative was further developed. During conversations with students, not only their challenges came to the fore, but especially their combativeness, hope and the creative and determined way they manage to find their way. Their stories form the core of (Well)being a student, an exhibition that shows what it really means to be a student in a time full of expectations and uncertainties.

Invitation to students
Are you a student and have a piece of art, project or other creative work that fits the theme of this exhibition? Or would you like to share your story with a wide audience? If so, apply to exhibit your work. This is your chance to be part of (Well)being a student and make your perspective visible. Send an email to info@raimke.com and tell us more about your idea or work!

What you can explore
The exhibition offers a mix of stories, art and interactive elements that will take you into the world of today's student. What's waiting for you?

• TikTok-style video wall: Be inspired by short, powerful videos in which students speak candidly about their challenges and how they deal with them.
• Student work: View impressive artwork and projects that tie in with the exhibition's themes.
• 360-degree experience: Literally step into the shoes of a student in Breda and experience the dilemmas and choices they face every day in an interactive 360-degree environment.
• Platform for tips: As a visitor, share your viewing, listening and reading tips to inspire others. A platform for your voice!
• Roadmap for well-being: Bring along a physical road map on which you will find all organizations in Breda that are committed to student welfare. A handy tool to find the right support!
• Meetings and workshops: Explore opportunities to participate in talks and workshops around the themes of the exhibition. Keep an eye on the calendar for updates.