Hello! I have recently completed my first semester of International Marketing at Fontys University of Applied Sciences, and I would like to share what studying and living in the Netherlands has been like for me.
My first days in a new country were incredibly exciting. Everything was unfamiliar: the culture, the environment, and the people from all over the world. At the same time, everyone was friendly, open, and willing to help.
I had always felt attracted to the Netherlands and knew that I wanted to study there. When I discovered Fontys and learned more about the programme, I immediately felt that this was the right place for me.
Although IELTS was not compulsory for my application, I decided to take the test as a personal challenge. After completing it and writing my motivation letter, I received my admission offer.
It was one of the happiest days of my life.
I packed my belongings into the car, and together with my parents, we began the journey towards my new life. When I first saw my student accommodation, I was amazed. It was located in a modern, recently constructed building and was in excellent condition.
My first days at Fontys were just as impressive. The international environment immediately made university life feel exciting. I met students from many different countries, all of whom were open to conversations and new friendships.
There are many German students because the country is nearby, but they are also happy to communicate in English and become part of the international community.
The lecturers are approachable, supportive, and genuinely interested in helping students succeed. Each programme has smaller classes and a course coordinator who regularly meets with students to discuss their studies, experiences abroad, and adaptation to the new environment.
You are not treated like an anonymous student. People notice how you are doing and are ready to support you.
Academically, the first few months were challenging because I had to become familiar with Business English. There were many new terms and expressions that I had never encountered before.
At first, understanding everything required extra effort, but over time, the specialist language became much more natural. What initially seemed difficult gradually became part of my everyday vocabulary.
The Dutch education system is also different from what I had experienced before. There are many assignments and group projects, and we regularly analyse real companies and the challenges they face.
This was completely new to me, but it quickly became one of the most interesting parts of the programme.
We do not learn business only from textbooks. We examine real situations, discuss possible solutions, and apply our knowledge in practice.
The university itself is modern, welcoming, and not so large that you feel lost. It is easy to find your way around, and there are many comfortable places where students can work, relax, or spend time with friends.
The library is one of the places where I spend a great deal of time. I often work there independently or meet my project group to complete assignments.
The learning style is strongly focused on practical skills and personal development. We analyse our own performance, record and review presentations, and learn how to evaluate ourselves honestly.
At first, watching myself speak in front of an audience felt uncomfortable. However, with every presentation, I became more confident.
The programme does not only teach marketing. It teaches you how to communicate, present your ideas, cooperate with others, and trust your own abilities.
The lecturers are experienced professionals who can explain complicated subjects clearly and understandably. Whenever a student has difficulties, they are willing to arrange a meeting, answer questions, and help find a solution.
However, the most valuable part of the experience for me has been the people I have met.
I now have friends from many different countries, cultures, and backgrounds. Every conversation teaches me something new about another part of the world.
I am already looking forward to visiting my new friends in their home countries. Studying abroad has made the world feel smaller and filled it with people and places that now mean something personally to me.
Completing my first semester has only strengthened my belief that I made the right decision. Fontys has already helped me fill gaps in both my theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
My goal now is to achieve the best possible results and become highly skilled in my chosen field. The programme can provide the knowledge, experience, and opportunities, but students must also be prepared to work hard and take responsibility for their development.
If you are motivated and willing to put in the effort, Fontys can help you move much closer to your professional goals.
To anyone still wondering whether to study abroad, my advice is to give yourself the chance to try. Moving to another country may feel intimidating, but it can also bring international friendships, professional skills, independence, and confidence that would be difficult to gain while remaining inside your familiar environment.
For me, studying International Marketing in the Netherlands has been an incredible life experience and the best decision I have ever made.
The Netherlands offers excellent opportunities, while Fontys is a modern and welcoming university that encourages you to recognise and develop your potential.
I have completed only my first semester, but I would not exchange the knowledge, friendships, and experiences I have gained here for anything.
