"At first, I thought I needed to move to the Randstad for an interesting job, but on campus, I found exactly what I was looking for: a place where I could learn, make mistakes, and contribute," says Elisa Klunder. Elisa is an AI student at the University of Groningen and a machine learning engineer at Enatom, a startup digitizing anatomy education with 3D images of real bodies. With the team being small, she takes on everything from frontend to backend. "I couldn't afford an internship financially, so when they offered me a job, I immediately said, 'If you give me a chance, I'm ready.' Luckily, they trusted my skills."
"That eagerness to learn is exactly what we're looking for," says CEO and co-founder Lusanne Tehupuring. "We consciously give young professionals like Elisa the space to grow, take initiative, and occasionally fail. It's precisely in a startup where you learn quickly and see immediately what your contribution yields.
Doing what matters
At Enatom, it's not just about technology but also about meaning. Digitizing 3D images of real bodies is technically complex but enables students and healthcare professionals worldwide to practice anywhere, even via smartphone or in VR. The platform was developed in collaboration with UMCG to align medical education closely with practical needs, particularly advantageous in regions without dissection rooms.
"If you want to attract the best people, especially the new generation, they need to feel that they're doing something meaningful," says Lusanne. For Elisa, this makes working at the startup so valuable: "What I do is genuinely used and contributes to increasing educational equality. That's highly motivating."
Be bold
For students and beginners aiming to make an impact, Elisa and Lusanne have one piece of advice: don't wait. "Be bold," says Elisa. "I just said: I can do this, give me a chance." Lusanne adds, "Many young people are too modest. We look for motivation, not perfection. Be clear about what you want to learn."
Additionally, it's crucial to be visible. "Join communities, attend events, approach people. Courage helps you stand out," says Lusanne. "And be curious," Elisa adds. "Asking questions, even about things you don't know, is appreciated.
Initiative from both sides makes a difference
According to Lusanne, the responsibility isn't solely on students. "Companies need to be visible, show what they offer, and actively seek out young talent." Elisa concludes, "Don't take a job that doesn't suit you just because it's the first one you get. There's more here than you think."
The message is clear: Campus Groningen offers ample opportunities for growth, learning, and impact, but it requires initiative from both students and companies. Those who are curious, show courage, and want to grow in an innovative environment will find abundant opportunities here.
