Rokas

Rokas
“One of our coaches once said, ‘It’s not what we give, it’s what you take’, and that really stuck with me”
Rokas
Leisure & Events Management student

After starting a degree in Film and Theatre Studies in the UK, Lithuanian-born Rokas realised it wasn’t for him. Driven by his passion for the artsy side of the world and for organising different activities, Rokas explored other university options in Europe before NHL Stenden caught his eye. Rokas’ research led him to Leisure & Events Management, which he started in February. And how's it going? He’s enjoying every minute of it. 

“I spent some time looking into what activities I enjoyed and what would suit me, and I discovered that NHL Stenden offered programmes beginning in February. After checking out the Leisure & Events Management programme, I felt like it was the perfect fit for me! So, I dropped out of Film and Theatre Studies and headed to the Netherlands. 
Starting in February made finding housing in Leeuwarden easier as many students leave for the Grand Tour or exchange. Plus, there is lower demand for housing in February than in September when more students tend to start. I also received lots of information about the StudyStartWeek, which really helped me settle into my new environment.”

All in the mix

“When it came to my classes, we were mixed with the students who had started their studies in September. On the one hand, it was nice because I got to learn from those who already knew the programme and make new friends easily, but on the other hand, starting in February meant catching up with those who had been studying for a semester, which was a bit challenging. But, with guidance from lecturers and other students, it wasn’t too difficult. In our third year, only us ‘February starters’ were left, and we were all together in a small class of 15 to 20 students. This meant that we got a lot of attention from our lecturers, or coaches, as we call them.”

A whole new world

“I have to say, it’s been an incredible journey. One of our coaches once said to us, ‘It’s not what we give, it’s what you take’, and that really stuck with me. I feel like I’ve taken so much from this experience and all the hands-on opportunities we’ve had – from the Tour de France project to on-site visits in Ghent, and even working on the Disneyland Paris project, which we got to visit for an entire week!”

“As I look towards graduation, I know one thing for sure – I want to work with people, for people. I really like the idea of helping students navigate their educational journeys, especially when it involves studying abroad. And that's why I became an ambassador for NHL Stenden. But I’m not giving up on the event industry completely. I dream of one day owning a cafe or wine bar where I can host things like poetry nights, theatre performances, and live music.”

To find out more about the programme, check out the Leisure and Events Management programme page or request the programme brochure. 

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