Ever since I can remember, I wanted to study abroad. I believed it would give me more opportunities than staying in my home country, and I was excited about meeting people from different cultures and seeing the world from a new perspective.
After exploring my options, I chose the Netherlands. I already knew a little about Dutch culture, and I was impressed by the wide range of English-taught programmes available.
One of the first things I noticed after arriving was how welcoming people are. Almost everyone speaks English, and whether it's a lecturer, another student, or someone you meet in the city, people are always happy to help.
I'm studying at Hanze University of Applied Sciences, where learning is very practical. Every semester we work on real-life projects that challenge us to apply what we've learned, solve problems, and collaborate with classmates. It has helped me develop skills that are valuable not only at university but also for my future career.
Before moving here, I imagined my classes would be more international. In reality, many students come from the Netherlands and Germany, especially because Groningen is so close to the German border. Even so, English is always the language used during classes, and the university makes sure everyone feels included.
Living in the Netherlands is more expensive than I expected, but Groningen is one of the most affordable student cities in the country. Finding a part-time job can take some time, but once you have one, it's much easier to cover your living expenses. Students who work enough hours may also qualify for financial support from the Dutch government.
Looking back, I'm especially grateful that I applied through Kastu. They made the application process clear and straightforward, so I could focus on preparing for my English language test instead of worrying about paperwork and deadlines. Whenever I had a question, I always received quick and helpful support.
Honestly, I don't think I would have had the confidence to study in the Netherlands without Kastu's guidance.
If you're thinking about studying abroad, my advice is simple: don't let uncertainty stop you. It may feel like a big step now, but it could become one of the best decisions of your life.
