'Not only doctors help people, notaries do too'

The Royal Dutch Notary Association (KNB) is constantly welcoming new members. Who are these people who choose a career in notarial practice? Why did they choose this profession, and what are their expectations? Every month, we spotlight a brand-new candidate notary. This time: Jet Adang.

Have you always wanted to work in the notary profession?
After high school, I didn't know what I wanted to do. I chose HBO law, and after completing my foundation year, I transferred to Radboud University. I love being immersed in books and felt more at home there. I didn't know what to pursue. So my parents gave me a book by Johan Nebbeling: "The Secret of the Notary." The stories in it moved me, and I knew: this is what I want. That's how I started studying notarial law.

How did you end up at the office where you work now?
After completing the theoretical subjects, I also wanted to get a better feel for the practical side of things. I sent an open application to Van Weeghel Doppenberg Kamps Notarissen in Doetinchem. They hired me as a working student, and after graduating, I was able to stay. And it wasn't just me. My twin sister studied IT, but that wasn't quite her cup of tea. She saw what I was doing and has now also started studying notarial law. And she's also working here in the office. We look a lot alike, so that's quite funny. And sometimes confusing for my colleagues.

How do you experience the transition from theory to practice?
After graduating, I felt like a lot more was suddenly expected of me, which of course wasn't the case. The partner at the firm also reassured me about this. It's a great firm where people are happy to think along with me. I'm shadowing an experienced candidate civil-law notary and sitting in on many client meetings. I know I've mastered the material, but I'm not holding any meetings myself yet. I'm still a bit nervous about that, but I'm sure it will be fine.
During your studies, you have no idea what it's like in practice. It would be great if everyone could get a taste of the practical side of things. The contact with clients is also new, as are the sometimes difficult conversations with the bereaved when a loved one has passed away. I never had any lessons in conversational skills, but I wish I had. There's so much involved!

What do you like about the work?
I used to think you could only help people in the police force or healthcare, but that's possible here too. It's a wonderful idea that you can be of service to someone at every stage of life, from birth to death. That also makes the work very varied. People confide in you with their stories, and I enjoy puzzling over a deed. It's also very rewarding work. When you've helped people and they feel reassured and relieved, for example, after an inheritance, that gives me a great sense of satisfaction.