Strive to be more Hamster!
S.T.C. Fokkema
The main mascot of H.V. Ockham, the Ockhamster, may appear nothing more than a neat wordplay turned into a cute and funny mascot, destined for mere entertainment purposes. However, such wild assumptions could not be further from the truth. The Ockhamster reminds us of the valuable life lessons that this animal species can teach us as Honours students or beyond.
Firstly: When a Hamster is faced with the challenge of squeezing through a hole to get food, it will relentlessly try repeatedly and maybe eventually succeed. The creature is literally tunnel visioned. Hamsters are thus remarkably persistent. As Honours students, you will inevitably experience setbacks and you will face new challenges in life. By developing a similar tenacious mindset, you might be able to successfully achieve our own goals and motivations just like the Hamster might.
Secondly, has a Hamster ever verbally complained to you? Hamsters are content with the base essentials of food, water and shelter. Less is plenty. As an Honours student, ambitions and expectations naturally lie sky high. However, we should not neglect the little things in life. By appreciating the usual, we can achieve a greater sense of fulfillment in life.
Thirdly, Hamsters are primarily known for their playful nature: exemplified by them running in their hamster ball; Always exploring as they go round. Maintaining our playfulness and curiosity throughout our own lives has massive physical and mental health benefits. It can help improve our creativity, reduce stress and foster a sense of wonder about the world, allowing us to approach challenges with a fresh perspective.
Fourthly, Hamsters are creatures of balance. Sometimes they sleep, sometimes they frantically run around; It seems to regularly alternate. In student life, with all the various activities and responsibilities involved, achieving such a ying-yang is vital. It can reduce the risk of burnouts and lead to a more productive and sustainable life balance.
Lastly, Hamsters are considered common pets. Although Hamsters are largely independent creatures, they do seem to value companionship and create strong bonds with their human owner. Humans are social beings and forming meaningful connections with others is essential for our well-being. We shall appreciate the importance of fostering relationships, supporting one another, and finding joy in shared experiences by, for example, being active in H.V. Ockham.
Overall, it makes total sense that H.V. Ockham is the home of the Ockhamster, as we can all draw valuable lessons from its way of life whilst taking the Honours track or beyond, including their resilience, simplicity, playfulness, balance and social bonding. It truly serves as a mascot for all Honours students at the UT, and we should all strive to be more Hamster. Hamsteréééén®.
https://omtglobal.com/curiosity-as-an-antidote-to-burnout/
https://www.risescience.com/blog/sleep-loss-burnout-sales
