Why did you choose to study in the Netherlands? Why did you decide to study in Nijmegen in particular?
I chose to study in the Netherlands for several reasons. The country consistently ranks highly in global indices for quality of life, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. I also appreciate the Dutch culture, which emphasizes a healthy work-life balance and values personal time. The cities are beautiful, clean, and safe, with low crime rates. I was also impressed by the strong economy and the level of government support—it’s rare to see homelessness on the streets, which I find very reassuring.
Another important factor for me was the language. Since around 90% of the population speaks English at a professional level, I wasn’t worried about facing language barriers in daily life.
On a personal note, my sister had moved to the Netherlands a year before I came here. Since my sister lives in Tilburg, I started by looking for universities near her that offered strong life sciences programs. That’s how I discovered Radboud University and the city of Nijmegen. What really attracted me to Nijmegen was its youthful and vibrant atmosphere. Thanks to Radboud University and HAN University, the city has a strong student presence, especially around the city center. It feels energetic, lively, and welcoming—perfect for student life.
How would you describe your experience adapting to Dutch culture and daily life?
Adapting to Dutch culture and daily life has been a very positive experience for me. Dutch people are incredibly nice, welcoming, and approachable. They’re often friendly and willing to help, even without being asked. I’ve experienced kindness in everyday situations—like people smiling at me on the street or offering assistance during routine activities such as grocery shopping or just going for a walk. These small gestures have made me feel comfortable and truly enjoy my day-to-day life here.
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?
One of the main differences I noticed is the structure and depth of the lectures. In Nijmegen, the lectures are usually shorter in duration but go much deeper into the subject matter. Basic concepts are often summarized in just a few slides, while most of the lecture focuses on recent research and developments in the field. This approach felt challenging at first, especially because multiple lecturers were involved—each teaching from the perspective of their own research area. But over time, I adapted and came to appreciate the variety and expertise.
Another major difference is the interactive nature of the classes. In the Netherlands, there’s a strong emphasis on participation, discussions, and asking questions. The assessment methods also stood out to me. There were many group assignments and presentations, which we had far less of in my home country. Exams here tend to be more research-based rather than just testing fundamental knowledge. The questions often require concise but insightful answers, focusing on critical thinking rather than memorization.
Have you felt welcomed and supported as an international student at Radboud University in Nijmegen? Can you share an example?
Yes, I’ve definitely felt welcomed and supported at Radboud University. In my program, we were 14 students representing 10 different nationalities, which created a very inclusive and international atmosphere from the start. The support began with the admissions process and continued with the international office staff, lecturers, and study coordinators, all of whom made us feel at home.
We were also assigned personal mentors and study advisers who were always available to help us navigate the academic system, which was quite different from what I was used to. Their guidance was especially helpful in adjusting to the new environment, understanding the expectations, and dealing with challenges related to studying in a foreign country.
What has surprised you most about studying or living in the Netherlands?
What surprised me most about studying in the Netherlands is how well-designed and efficient the curriculum is. I truly felt that the program respected our time and the effort we put in. The courses were structured in a way that balanced academic challenge with flexibility and independence, which I really appreciated.
In daily life, I’m constantly surprised by how active and healthy Dutch people are. It’s common to see people walking or biking everywhere, often with their pets, and they genuinely seem to enjoy it. Their lifestyle reflects a strong emphasis on health, balance, and enjoying simple things, which has been both inspiring and refreshing for me.
What do you enjoy most about living and studying in Nijmegen, both as a student and outside the classroom?
One of the things I enjoy most is biking to and from campus—it’s such a relaxing and enjoyable part of my daily routine. I also love spending time by a beautiful pond near my room. It’s a peaceful spot where I can unwind, reflect, or simply enjoy nature. These simple moments really enhance my student life and help me maintain a good balance between study and relaxation.
What I enjoy most about life in Nijmegen outside the classroom is exploring the lively city center. There’s so much to discover—from local shops and historic churches to cozy cafés, bars, and libraries. The city has a great balance of charm and energy, with plenty of places to relax or socialize.
Nijmegen also offers a rich mix of cultural events, festivals, and a vibrant nightlife that’s well-suited for students and young professionals. There’s always something going on, and it really adds to the sense of community and student-friendly atmosphere.
How do you find the cost of living, housing, and public transport in Nijmegen as a student?
Overall, I find the cost of living in Nijmegen quite manageable for a student, especially with some of the support options available. One great example is the offer to pay just €15 for free bus transport within Nijmegen—that’s such a helpful deal, and I wish I had known about it from my very first day here.
In terms of housing, I live in a student complex managed by SSH&, which is relatively affordable and convenient. It offers a good balance between cost and comfort, and being surrounded by other students creates a nice community feeling. While living costs can still be high compared to my home country, there are definitely ways to manage your budget as a student in Nijmegen.
Would you recommend studying in Nijmegen to other students? Why or why not?
Yes, I would definitely recommend studying in Nijmegen to other students from my country. It’s a true university city and home to Radboud University, one of the leading research universities in the Netherlands. Radboud is known for its strong academic programs, especially in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and medical sciences.
The presence of both Radboud University and the Radboud University Medical Center gives the city a vibrant, international student atmosphere. There’s a lively academic community, and the city itself is student-friendly, well-organized, and full of opportunities to grow both academically and personally.