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Meet our international students!

The Week of the International Students, from 14 – 18 November is an initiative of Nuffic. The aim of this week is to showcase the importance of an international experience for both Dutch and international students. This year’s theme Meet the world, make the change highlights the positive change students and alumni can make as global citizens. High time to introduce you to some of FGGA’s International students! Meet Laura from Italy, Oliver from the US, Catarina from Portugal. Barbara from Slovakia and Harshita Kanodia from India:

Laura Farci from Italy, MSc student in Public Administration, following the Economics and Governance track

Why did I choose the Netherlands and this study?
‘As I pursued my undergraduate studies in London, similarly for my Masters I wanted to be exposed to a global environment. Given the high concentration of international students, to study in the Netherlands just seemed like the obvious choice to me. In line with my future aspirations of working in the field of public policy and government administration, I was also particularly attracted by the opportunity to live in The Hague. I have fallen in love with the city, its architecture, historical importance, and vibrancy. Most of all, I love being at the doorstep of great institutions and international organizations, where maybe one day I will be lucky enough to work!’

How do you experience the International community?
‘I learn a great deal from the different perspectives and ideas that students from all over the world bring to the table. Everyone here comes from a different background, has different hopes for the future, and carries a unique story and journey that has brought them here.’

What is something typically Dutch that you would recommend to others?
‘Something typically Dutch that I recommend to my international friends will always be cheese!! One of my favorite activities is to go into cute antique cheese shops and taste just about any type of cheese they offer in their selection. I plan on bringing some back home for Christmas for my parents!’

Oliver Bredbeck from the US, MSc student Crisis and Security Management Masters, following the Intelligence and National Security Track

Why did I choose the Netherlands and this study?
‘I actually moved here with my family in 2014 for my father's job. After spending a few years here I really loved living here and decided I wanted to stay and study. The specific Programs so Security Studies and then the Masters were down to my personal interest in the subjects I could study while following the programs.’

What do you like most about studying here?
‘I love the international community in the Hague and in my program. A very good public transport system is a life changer from where I lived in the US.’

The subject of the week is: Meet the world, make the change, In your opinion, what change can students bring as global citizens?
‘I believe that students bring a great deal of enthusiasm, new ideas, and different cultures. They can provide new insights and are the future.’

Do you have any tips for other International students?
‘Be friendly, don't be afraid to ask for help, and make the most of living here, certainly go check out the Keukenhof!’

Catarina Mantas from Portugal, MSc student of Public Administration, Public Management and Leadership

Why did I choose the Netherlands and this study?
‘During my Bachelor studies, I had the opportunity of doing an exchange program at the University of Groningen and I genuinely enjoyed the teaching methods. After having studied Business Management, I became increasingly interested in politics-related topics and felt that I wanted to learn something with a more direct public impact, while still having the opportunity to apply insights from Management sciences. In this sense, the Master of Public Administration and especially the specialization of Public Management and Leadership was an obvious choice.’

What do you like most about studying here?
‘Leiden University opens door to an endless world of possibilities. From partnerships with renowned universities for exchange programs to the proximity of several international institutions and the number of student organisations and initiatives, students are sure to have their hands full.’

Any tips for other internationals?
‘Do a lot of research before moving to the Netherlands, not only on your chosen study program but also on Dutch history and culture. This way, things such as biking in the rain, eating only sandwiches for lunch, having dinner at around 18 h, or planning social gatherings in advance will come as no surprise.

Also, reach out to current students! You can probably find several students on platforms such as LinkedIn or Twitter, and they will certainly be more than willing to clarify any questions you may have. Connecting with students who are already here is a great way to feel more at home when moving to the Netherlands. I wish you all the luck in the world here in the Netherlands; I am certain you will have an amazing time.’

Barbara Krakovska from Slovakia, MSc student Crisis & Security Management

Why did I choose the Netherlands and this study?
‘I visited a friend in Amsterdam a couple of years ago and I really liked the country and its culture, and I felt very welcome by the Dutch. I heard some nice things about Leiden University before and I was eager to go to university in general, so it was, for me, an obvious choice! I did my Bachelor's in Security studies at Leiden University, and because I liked to study here I decided to stay and pick Master's that were in English and in line with my interests.’

The subject of the week is: Meet the world, make the change, In your opinion, what change can students bring as global citizens?
‘From my experience, many students are very ambitious and dream big, and the fact that nowadays it is so easy to travel and to study abroad, also makes it possible to be more exposed to different opinions, experiences, and cultures. It helps us to think a bit more outside the box and thus, hopefully, mix these ideas and ambitions together in the future to change the world. But we are also able to make changes where it matters while we are still students - at the university, I see many talented people push our faculties towards better inclusion, promoting green initiatives, organising events for students, and so on.’​​​​​​​

What is something typically Dutch that you would recommend to others?
‘Poffertjes! I have a huge sweet tooth in general and pancakes are my favorite food in the world, so this instantly became my favorite.’​​​​​​​

Any tips for other internationals?
‘Learn Dutch! It is much easier to learn the language when you see it and hear it every day around you, it gets you more in touch with the culture and the locals and whether you are planning to stay or move back home, learning a new language is never a waste of your time.’

Harshita Kanodia from India, MSc student International Relations & Diplomacy

What do you like most about studying here?   
‘I really enjoy the cosmopolitan environment of the city. My programme is truly international, with people from all around the globe who have different perspectives and diverse knowledge of the subject. Opportunities to interact with diplomats and officials from international organizations are undoubtedly the most exciting aspect of living in The Hague. Besides, these networking opportunities and the connections of the University are beneficial for internships and practical work experience.’  

The subject of the week is: Meet the world, make the change, in your opinion, what change can students bring as global citizens? 
‘I believe international students have an opportunity to bring in new perspectives and change existing narratives in such a multinational environment. As change starts from a small step, students have the power to bring about global change with a small initiative. And the ability to communicate openly and express individual stances can help stimulate meaningful conversations. Besides being from the Global South, this is a chance to elevate non-western ideas and make the world more equal both academically and practically.’

What is something typically Dutch that you would recommend to others?  
‘I would definitely recommend Stroopwafels (unlike most Dutch food) for those with a sweet tooth. Besides, I would recommend getting a bike when you get here. I am also slowly delving into the biking culture, which is new for me but also saves a lot of money. And yes, Borrels! These are post-work drinks to mingle with colleagues (and the Dutch have given a name to it!). It’s an efficient and fun way to socialize and network with people outside the work/study environment.’

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