Why did you choose to study in the Netherlands? What attracted you to this country in particular?
Honestly, I was looking for a university that combined strong academics with an international environment, that's why the Netherlands was one of my top priorities. What really stood out to me was how approachable and internationally oriented the education system is here, not just the wide range of English-taught programs, but also how well-structured and welcoming the universities are for international students.
How would you describe your experience adapting to Dutch culture and daily life?
I actually found it easier than expected, especially because I’m someone who’s naturally quite direct. In some places, being straightforward can come off as rude or too blunt, but here in the Netherlands, it’s really valued. People appreciate honesty, and I’ve felt more comfortable just saying what I mean. That’s something I genuinely admire about Dutch culture. Aside from that, daily life here is well-organized and pretty relaxed. People really make time for social life and rest, which helped me feel less overwhelmed.
What differences have you noticed between studying in Nijmegen and your home country? What differences have you noticed between the Dutch education system and the one in your home country?
Academically, the system is quite different. There’s a strong focus on self-study, and most of the learning comes from lecture slides rather than textbooks. The exams were also a bit different, professors here often prefer short, precise answers rather than long explanations. But what I really appreciate is how approachable the professors are. They actually like it when you ask questions or challenge ideas in class. That makes a big difference.
Have you felt welcomed and supported as an international student at Radboud University in Nijmegen? Can you share an example?
Definitely. From day one, Radboud had everything in place to make the transition easier, orientation week, support from the International Office, and helpful student groups that helped me settle in. But honestly, one of the best parts was my SSH& housing experience. I ended up with some incredible flatmates. It felt like all the like-minded people were somehow placed in the same corridor. The vibes just clicked, we really became like a little family. We even planned a trip to Portugal together. That kind of connection made a huge difference in feeling at home here.
What has surprised you most about studying or living in the Netherlands?
Definitely the number of bikes, everyone’s on one, no matter the age. I was also amazed by how friendly people are, even strangers greet you on the street.
What do you enjoy most about living and studying in Nijmegen, both as a student and outside the classroom?
I really enjoy how friendly and active student life is in Nijmegen. There’s always something going on, whether it’s a student event, a casual night at a café, or just spontaneous hangouts in the park. I also like that everything’s close by, so meeting up with friends or going for a quick bike ride by the river feels easy.
How do you find the cost of living, housing, and public transport in Nijmegen as a student?
Housing can be tough to find and is a bit expensive, especially before arriving. I was lucky to get a spot through SSH&, which helped a lot. The overall cost of living is higher than in my home country, but if you budget well and maybe work a part-time job, it becomes manageable. Most students use a bike, which saves money, and having a student public transport pass is definitely a plus.
Would you recommend studying in Nijmegen to other students? Why or why not?
Yes, I would. It’s not always the most affordable option, but the experience and quality of education make it worth it. The international environment, the structure of the programs, and the balance between academics and personal life are all things I really value. Plus, the Netherlands is a very safe and well-connected country to live in.