Afbeelding
“It wasn't until I spent some time in Switzerland that I really got into the news back in Slovakia and realised there were things that could be improved in our government. The Netherlands is one of the few countries that offers bachelor’s degrees taught in English in the field of politics, so that’s how my search for the right degree and right place started. I did some more research and was in contact with a student here. She gave me insights into life in Leeuwarden and after an open day at NHL Stenden, I was sold – bikes, canals, and welcoming students, I was ready to be a part of it!”
Thinking outside the textbook
“I knew I wanted a more hands-on education, not like the one back home where it's all about memorising notes, taking tests, and moving on. That's why when I came to the Netherlands it was interesting to see the difference between a research university and a university of applied sciences like NHL Stenden. For international students it's good to know this before making a decision. It isn't exactly what I expected, but I do like NHL Stenden's practical approach as it really makes you think about what you are learning and how you can apply it.”
Getting political
“I like the diversity of knowledge we acquire in this degree. From the historical development of politics to different concepts within politics, from law to the economy of the European Union and how its institutions work. My favourite course so far has been Human Rights, where we focused on different parts of the world like the US, Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe. We looked at if there were any human rights violations in those regions and whether they had progressed or not. I'm really enjoying this second semester in my second year too because we're studying geopolitics, policy, governance, and EU funding. The subjects are more knowledge-based so I feel I’m gaining a richer understanding of how politics works.”
Alone, together
“I think European Studies has quite a ‘gezellig’ (Dutch for cosy or quaint) atmosphere because you really get to know everyone in the programme and the lecturers genuinely have time for you. And I think that’s amazing. It's great being surrounded by so many internationals, like me, because you get to meet people from all over the world, learn about their languages and cultures, and, above all, you get to have interesting conversations. My advice to prospective students: take the less travelled road and don't be afraid! I took the leap and it's brought me to this amazing environment, which I love.”
“I'm looking forward to my Erasmus exchange in Oslo next year. And I'm considering doing a master's degree later. I haven't quite figured out where or what exactly, but I'm thinking about International Relations or Diplomacy. I'm happy that European Studies will open up lots of career opportunities for me. One thing I'm sure of is that I want a job where I can help develop my home country and have a positive impact on democracy there.”
