The most famous koi carp in Eindhoven and beyond was already making eye contact with a student at the edge of the pond. From our workspace on the south side of the Atlas building, we have a perfect view of the koi’s movements. There’s nothing better than gazing out the window when you need a break from your computer work. It’s a nice change to focus your eyes on something a little farther away. Sometimes alone, sometimes with a colleague. And then, together, we silently search for Egbert.

Or we watch the passersby who are trying to engage with the carp. Some make videos as he swims alongside them. We’ve even seen a student seemingly having a telepathic conversation with Egbert. Then there are the numerous attempts to pet him or take a selfie with him. I’m genuinely curious if such selfies actually work, and what they would look like. And what people do with them afterward. But that’s always the question when it comes to selfies.

Anyway, a moving date has been set for our pond neighbor. Apparently, he’s going to have a better life in the pond near the new student apartments, with clean water, plants, and more of his kind. We’ll be able to visit him there during a lunch or work walk. Will he still want to engage with the passersby? We’ll see: May 7th is the big day. I think I’ll still try to snap a selfie with him before then.