Zealand Institute of Business and Technology, Denmark

Probably most people imagine a semester abroad with the Erasmus Program to like this: A warm country with many beach parties, plenty of cocktails and lightly clad people. During the program, studying usually becomes secondary and still many people are tempted to study at another university and gain new impressions.

Why I chose Holland of all places is still a mystery for most people... There, the cyclists are in power and they "fietsen" through the cities with the gloves off.

Bad weather, traditional wooden shoes and good Dutch cheese are just as much a part of the Netherlands as pretzels and Obazda are a part of Bavaria. However, this country is probably rather the opposite of what many would expect from an Erasmus stay. It was clear to me from the beginning that I wanted to go to the Netherlands. The language fascinates me and also the lovable nature of the Dutch immediately convinced me. Love at first sight, so to speak! I think, no matter which country you choose, you should stand by your decision and you should identify yourself with the mentality and culture and be open for everything new.

However, one thing is certain: A great deal of organization and a lengthy process of preparation. Apartment, insurance, learning agreement, English test, online registration at the Hanzehogeschool in Groningen, enrolling in courses ... everything has to be thought of and be done before leaving. Whoever loves to plan and organize, I guarantee, will be fully taken up in organizing their stay abroad. Even if you are sometimes on the verge of a nervous breakdown, it will definitely be worth it!

In order to get used to everything a little earlier, I arrived in Groningen a month before the start of the semester to take part in the famous KEI Week, which is organized by students and is organized every year in grand style. I let myself be surprised and am curious what will happen in the near future. But already now I am convinced that I have absolutely made the right decision I am sure that it will be "the time of my life"!

Tot ziens en een prettige dag!

Johanna Klug