Testimonials
Programming is taught from scratch and at a manageable pace.
- Previous education
- Gymnasium (Science & Health)
- Nationality
- Dutch
- Programme
- Artificial Intelligence
- Country of previous education
- The Netherlands
- Study start date
- Study end date
Niels van Tilborg is studying the Bachelor’s programme in Artificial Intelligence at Radboud University.
Why did you choose Radboud University?
Firstly, Radboud University offers an AI bachelor's degree that places extra emphasis on the human brain and is affiliated with the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour. This would enable me to work together with the Donders Institute through Radboud University. I was also very impressed by the size and green location of the Radboud campus. I found buildings such as the Maria Montessori and Huygens impressive. Also the facilities offered by the Radboud sports centre were an important factor.
How did you experience the transition from high school to university? How did the university/programme assist you with this transition?
After finishing secondary school, I took a gap year to travel around Europe with one of my best friends. I had already thought about the potentially difficult transition to university after a gap year. I was mainly afraid of losing my ability to study, which I had naturally built up in secondary school. Fortunately, I quickly got back into the rhythm of studying, mainly because my courses were interesting. In addition, I had to get used to the degree of freedom at university compared to secondary school. No one is pushing you to pass your courses except yourself. But if you are unable to do so, you can always contact your mentor or study advisor for assistance or guidance.
What do you like about the Bachelor's programme and why? How has the programme challenged you?
Firstly, the accessibility of the Bachelor's programme for students without programming experience. Programming is taught from scratch and at a manageable pace. Secondly, as mentioned earlier, the emphasis on studying the human brain. For example, in courses such as Cognitive Psychology, Brain, Natural Language Processing, Brain-Computer Interfacing and Cognitive Neuropsychology. Thirdly, many of the lecturers are part of the Donders Institute, so it is easier to get in touch with them. Finally, what I found difficult was the number of assignments during a period, as this could sometimes be quite challenging.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class?
In general, the atmosphere within the programme is friendly. An example of this is the common room for AI students in the Maria Montessori building. AI students from different years come here to study, work together, or simply catch up. The atmosphere here is always pleasant. In addition, contact with lecturers is easy and therefore accessible. In general, lecturers are always open to answering questions. An example of this is when I asked my programming lecturer after class about his current research at the Donders Institute, which he talked about passionately.
What are your plans once you have received your Bachelor’s degree?
I want to do a Master's degree after obtaining my Bachelor's degree. Now, I am still thinking about what I would like to specialise in. An AI Master's degree with a focus on the human brain would interest me, but recently I have also become increasingly interested in cybersecurity. In addition, I am also interested in being able to use AI to help people in the medical field. In conclusion, I have not yet made a final decision.
Are you involved with the study association of your programme? If so, in what way?
I am an active member of the study association. During my first year, I was a member of the external committee and the Sweden committee. I am currently still a member of the external committee and have also joined the charity committee. The external committee is responsible for organising career events and sponsors. The charity committee organises events to raise money for the RAGweek Nijmegen, and the Sweden committee was always involved in organising an exchange trip with our Swedish sister association. In addition, I can regularly be found at activities organised by the study association and occasionally in the boardroom.
What do you like about Nijmegen?
The location on the Waal river for running, walking and sitting on the Waal beach in summer, the old town and its cosy atmosphere, the Goffert park with major events and, after a long evening, a broodje spee (typical Nijmegen sandwich) at a nice cafeteria.
Did you visit any information meetings at the campus before you signed up for your studies? Did you find them useful and why?
The Open Day was valuable in finding out how the AI bachelor's programme in Nijmegen distinguishes itself from other AI bachelor's programmes in the Netherlands. Personally, I found the Student for a Day activity most valuable, as it allowed me to experience what a typical day for an AI student looks like through a campus tour and work group.
What would you advise students when choosing a study programme?
There is an enormous number of studies to choose from, which can sometimes be overwhelming. Therefore, try to inform yourself as well as possible so that you can make an informed choice, but above all, don't be afraid to make a “wrong or imperfect” choice. If you have made an informed choice that you supported at the time, but you have since discovered that it is not quite right for you, that is not a problem. There are still plenty of options, and at the same time, you've discovered what you're not looking for in a degree programme.
It's always nice to attend a lecture of a teacher who is passionate about a research topic.
- Programme
- Artificial Intelligence
- Study start date
- Study end date
Bachelor’s student Charissa Wolff is studying Artificial Intelligence at Radboud University.
Why did you choose Radboud University?
The AI programme seemed broad, with courses that cover most AI-related topics. I also had a friend who was studying AI and he recommended it. It also helps that Nijmegen is a small city with nature all around it.
How did you experience the transition from high school to university? How did the university/programme assist you with this transition?
I started studying during the pandemic, so it was very different than what I was used to in high school. All of the sudden I was staying home most of the time and attending online lectures. In 2022 everything went back to normal and I started going to campus 5 times a week.
What do you like about the Bachelor's programme and why? How has the programme challenged you?
I love the math courses, because I've always liked math. I also like the courses where you get hands-on experience with programming. This was challenging at the same time, since I had to work in groups with people I didn't know very well. But this has helped me build on my teamwork skills over the years and now I don't mind working with people I've never met before.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class?
The teachers are always helpful and the students that attend the lectures and work groups are hard working. It's always nice to attend a lecture of a teacher who is passionate about a research topic. This also inspires me to work hard and to learn more.
What are your plans once you have received your Bachelor’s degree?
Doing a Master's programme at Radboud University. After that, I would like to enter the labour market.
Are you involved with the study association of your programme? If so, in what way?
Yes! The study association of AI is called CognAC.
What do you like about Nijmegen?
Nijmegen is a small city where you can undertake many activities. The city is very accessible by bicycle, you can reach the one end to the other within 35 minutes of cycling. Nature is nearby no matter where you are. In the summer you can also swim at the Waalstrandje.
Did you visit any information meetings at the campus before you signed up for your studies? Did you find them useful and why?
No, I didn't. I did most of my research online and by asking my friend who studied AI what he thought.
What would you advise students when choosing a study programme?
Make sure you like the topic and it matches with what you want to do in the future.
What makes Artificial Intelligence so interesting to me is the interaction between the brain and Artificial Intelligence.
- Programme
- Artificial Intelligence
Jordy Thielen is an assistant professor at Radboud University.
Can you introduce yourself?
As a student in 2010, I found myself in your position: almost finished with my final exams and ready for an exciting new step. I found the field of psychology very interesting, but I wanted to do something with my talent for mathematics. After an Open Day, I knew it for sure: the Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence (AI) was the perfect combination of engineering and psychology for me. After my Bachelor's, I stuck around at Radboud University and did a Research Master's in Cognitive Neuroscience and a Master's in AI. I then completed a PhD and now work as an Assistant Professor at the faculty. Students can come across me in the Bachelor's and Master's as a lecturer in various courses and in supervising theses.
Why did you choose to study/work in this field? What makes this field so interesting?
An example a professor gave during an Open Day stirred something in me. She drew three overlapping figures and asked us to describe what we saw. To us, this seemed like an easy task, as we had immediately recognised the three figures: a circle, a square and a triangle. "Aren't there many more figures in this drawing?", the professor asked us, "I can describe many more figures than the three you tell me!" This lesson made me think: because indeed, with a second look, we noticed even more. I was especially amazed at how we process information with such a bias. This visual perception, how do we do it? What rules do we use consciously and subconsciously?
What makes AI so interesting to me is the interaction between the brain and AI. On the one hand, we use the brain to construct AI systems and, on the other, we use AI to actually understand the brain better. What 'mistakes' does an AI system make? How do we see these mistakes reflected in the brain?
What do you like best about being a lecturer?
During my PhD research, I taught for the first time and immediately noticed how very rewarding it was. Research can sometimes take a long time; getting results can even take years. In a class, I feel a reward much more quickly. A student with whom the penny drops, new ideas for a thesis or interesting questions and discussions within a study group. Such developments spark my enthusiasm!
What are you currently doing your own research on?
I am currently researching brain-computer interfaces, an exciting and fast-growing field. Brain-computer interfaces, what exactly are they? You can think of them as systems that allow communication between your brain and a computer. Imagine that an illness prevents you from moving. How can you still communicate and control devices, for example? That's what my work is all about!
I focus on understanding how our brain works, especially in the field of visual perception. What we see may not always be reality. By studying activity in the brain, we can recognise patterns that indicate what a person wants to do, such as move or communicate. To do this, I use scans and develop smart algorithms that can decipher brain signals as accurately and quickly as possible.
What advice do you have for students making their study choice?
When I was busy making my own study choices, practical experiences helped me in particular. You could find me at Open Days, Experience Days and I sought contact with current students. This gave me a taste of what it was like on campus and within the AI Bachelor's programme. So my tip is to go out there! It helped me to actively take a look at the campus, the faculty and the overall atmosphere.
What does your work in practice bring to your academic work, and vice versa?
MindAffect is an organisation trying to make the interplay between brain-computer interface, AI and neuroscience available to patients. Whereas I used to play an active role at MindAffect, I am now involved in an advisory position at a smaller level. I help them with ideas on methods, research directions and publications. In this way, I hope to do my bit for the application of scientific research in society.
That's when I discovered AI: a field that combines disciplines from any imaginable science.
- Previous education
- VWO (N&T/N&G)
- Programme
- Artificial Intelligence
- Study start date
- Study end date
Femke Aminetzah is a former bachelor student in Artificial Intelligence.
Why did you choose Radboud University?
When I knew for sure that Artificial Intelligence (AI) was the study for me, I started looking for the perfect curriculum, comparing different Dutch universities. After a few weeks of orientating I decided upon Radboud University, because it has strong bonds with various outstanding research institutes and the Radboud university medical centre. This was great, because it made it easier for me to follow my passion for clinical technology, neuroscience, and drug development.
How did you experience the transition from high school to university? How did the university/programme assist you with this transition?
The transfer from high school to university was quite hard for me. It look me a while before I got adapted to this new way of studying and the independence that the university gives you. During the first half year, I went to visit the study advisor to talk about the things I struggled with most and how to resolve them. Besides this, I was also guided by a mentor (a second year student), who I would have personal meetings with quite often. This, and of course my own motivation and discipline, made me overcome my problems in the first year.
What do you like about the Bachelor's programme and why? How has the programme challenged you?
First of all, I really enjoy that the Bachelor's in Artificial Intelligence offers such a broad range of courses. Every week you'll have various courses, ranging from mathematics to neuroscience, and from programming to academic skills. This way, it was clear to see which courses I really enjoyed doing, and which courses were less enjoyable for me. In general, I struggled most with the programming courses. I didn't get any prior education in programming, and even though we start from zero in the first year, university courses move quickly. I did manage to pass all my courses in the first year, but I sometimes still feel like I didn't have enough time to practice the basics of programming.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class (for example the relationship between students and with the teachers/researchers)?
I experience the study environment as very welcoming. The Bachelor's programme is an international programme, which means that the students come from all over the world. What I find so special about this, is that I learn so much about different cultures and gain a lot of new perspectives. During the Bachelor's programme some form of collaboration is needed for nearly every course. Math courses are mostly individual, programming assignments are mostly partner work, and some other courses require group work. Especially in the first year, this made it easier for me to get to know people and work on assignments.
Besides this, contact with staff is also very accessible. Teachers within the Bachelor's programme, are most of the time also researchers at the Radboud University or the linked research institutes. During a lecture, you can always walk up to them in the break to ask a material related question or anything else. They are also always available via email or other platforms.
What are your plans once you have received your Bachelor’s degree?
When I finish my Bachelor's, I will most likely enrol for a Master's programme. This way, I can specialise a bit more before starting a job. I will probably do a Master's in bioinformatics, because I am interested in AI supported drug development. Before this, I would like to gain some experience by doing an internship.
Are you involved with the study association of your programme? If so, in what way?
I am not an active member of any committee within the study association. I do attend a lot of their activities, like parties, drinks, inhousedays at companies, educational talks, etc. I enjoy that they offer low-key activities to get yourself acquainted with the job market and other opportunities for students.
What do you like about Nijmegen?
I would describe Nijmegen as a relatively small and cosy city, that still has everything to offer. There are many bars, cafe's, stores, museums, restaurants and also markets all within walking distance. Besides all this, Nijmegen also has some nice beaches and nature parks, where you can swim, walk or picknick in summer. In my opinion, Nijmegen is the perfect mix between city and nature, young and old, and Dutch and international.
Did you visit any information meetings at the campus before you signed up for your studies? Did you find them useful and why?
I decided that I wanted to study AI in the last year of high school. I was always very interested in astrophysics, but I was missing the tangible application of this science. I always knew that I was interested in a broad scala of topics, and would prefer to not yet strictly choose one discipline. That's when I discovered AI: a field that combines disciplines from any imaginable science. After writing my high school research paper on AI applications, I was very intrigued by the topic, and wanted to know more. That's when I knew for sure that I wanted to study AI! I only attended one online open day talk at Radboud University, and knew that the city and the curriculum were the right fit for me.
What would you advise students when choosing a study programme?
I know from my own experience that motivation and discipline are the key factors to completing a studies. So I would highly suggest choosing a studies that really interests you! Courses can get hard, but as long as you know what you're working towards, it get's easier to motivate yourself. It's of course easier said than done, to know where your interests actually lie. To help yourself out a bit, it can never hurt to attend the Bachelor Open Day or to think about the jobs you'd like to do later in life.
Within the Artificial Intelligence programme you have a lot of free electives in your third year.
- Programme
- Artificial Intelligence
Michel Berden studied Artificial Intelligence at Radboud University and studied abroad in Canada.
How did you decide whether or not to go on exchange?
After receiving an email about the possibilities from the International Office, I started thinking about it. I was in doubt initially because I didn’t want to incur a study delay. When this did not seem to be the case - and after some good conversations with my parents - I eventually decided to just do it.
To which country, which city, and which university did you go?
I studied at the Western University in London, in the east of Canada.
What is the best way to prepare yourself?
It’s actually mainly about just doing it! And if you go outside Europe: check what official documents such as visa, and papers you to need to provide. But besides that you really just have to book some plane tickets and pack your suitcase. The rest will follow.
What is the student life like there?
As an international student I often went places with the introduction group that I had. Via that group I got to know other students. I thought the amount of sport bars was funny. In Nijmegen you mainly have a lot of dance clubs, but in London the various pubs are filled with large television screens that showed ice hockey. There were of course clubs like we know them in the Netherlands, but they played different music.
What was the biggest cultural shock?
The amount of frat boys (a North-American student association) was quite large at campus and in the clubs. To be honest, they fully match the stereotype from the films. Another cultural shock was the role of the campus: the entire student life takes place there; eating, meeting up, classes, and parties. It took some getting used to literally everyone always being somewhere on campus. Lastly, I noticed that Canadians greet you kindly with a ‘Hey, how are you?’, even though they don’t really care how you’re doing. It’s more something they do out of politeness!
Do you have some tips for people who are considering an exchange?
I believe that an exchange is an experience that contributes something no matter what. Even in the worst case scenario you can learn something from it. If you look at it like that, there is almost no reason not to go! One practical tip is to start arranging the needed documents on time. It saved me a lot of stress later.
How did your exchange fit in with your study programme?
Within the Artificial Intelligence programme you have a lot of free electives in your third year. These free electives can also be courses from a different university in a different country. So I followed a great variety of courses that I enjoyed during my semester abroad!
Has the exchange been a good addition to your programme and/or personal development? If yes, how so?
It has brought me a lot: I really enjoyed being in nature a lot. I had the chance to see wonderful mountains, views, and nature parks. It’s also unique to get to know the culture from within. I really noticed how capitalistic and innovative Canada is. However, I did notice that this is accompanied by immense differences between people’s lives. All in all, a valuable insight into another culture!
Nijmegen is a very cosy city. It has the facilities and activities of a city, but it has the relaxed atmosphere of a town.
- Programme
- Artificial Intelligence, Information Sciences
- Study start date
- Study end date
Eloy Wijlhuizen is a former bachelor student in Artificial Intelligence.
Why did you choose Radboud University?
There were multiple reasons why I chose Radboud University, but I’ll try to keep it concise. First of all, because there is a relaxed vibe at Radboud University. The professors here are approachable and everyone helps each other wherever they can. Secondly, because the city of Nijmegen is very appealing. There are a lot of parks and the people that live here are approachable and ‘gezellig’ as we say in Dutch.
What do you like about the Bachelor's programme and why? How has the programme challenged you?
What I like about the Bachelor's programme is the practical approach and ways of thinking about a problem. A lot of the time when I say that I study Artificial Intelligence people say: 'Wow that's the future'. However, in this study programme we also learn how we can use Artificial Intelligence to solve real world problems. In the course Societal Impact the quote 'With great power comes great responsibility' returns quite some times. It's not just the great things that we can do with Artificial Intelligence that we learn, we are also taught what the risks of Artificial Intelligence can be and how we should try to avoid them.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class (for example the relationship between students and with the teachers/researchers)?
The atmosphere is something special. Artificial Intelligence has quite some students, but it does feel like I know almost everyone once I go to my workgroups. We help each other out and when that doesn’t work teachers are eager to help you. You only have to take the first step.
What are your plans once you have received your Bachelor’s degree?
Once I have my Bachelor's degree there are many possibilities. Currently I am doing an internship at the iHub as a research assistant where I use my academic knowledge to help in multidisciplinary research. At the moment, I am very interested in data science and regulation. Since the field of Artificial Intelligence is changing at such a fast pace the possibilities of where I want to end up seem endless. The most beautiful thing about Artificial Intelligence is that you get a lot of tools to pave your own way.
Are you involved with the study association of your programme? If so, in what way?
After the first exam period I became an active member of our study association SV CognAC. As an active member you join a committee that you like. Every committee has its own tasks. It ranges from professional activities to arranging fun activities in which you and your fellow students do all sorts of things. Over the years I have made a lot of friends here and will probably make them for life.
What do you like about Nijmegen?
It’s a very cosy city. It has the facilities and activities of a city, but it has the relaxed atmosphere of a town. There is a lot of nature in and around Nijmegen so you can go for beautiful walks. As a real student city there are loads of students and the municipality itself creates a balance between the students and the rest of the city.
Did you visit any information meetings at the campus before you signed up for your studies? Did you find them useful and why?
No, I didn’t attend any information meetings, but I did have a friend that studied Artificial Intelligence already. I already had some interest in the field of Artificial Intelligence and Data science, but I was still doubting which route to take. However, after some conversations with him and some other people he knew from Artificial Intelligence, I was convinced that Artificial Intelligence was the right study programme for me. Within a couple of weeks in my study programme, I couldn’t remember why I doubted in the first place.
What would you advise students when choosing a study programme?
When I graduated high school, I had no idea what I wanted to do. What I do know now is this: whatever choice you make, as long as you keep in mind what you really want, even if your choice doesn’t seem to work out, you can always find a way to make it work. What's most important is that you choose something that you like.