Studying in Leeuwarden
Do you want to study in the Netherlands but you are still wondering which city to choose? Have you heard of Leeuwarden?
Leeuwarden is a student city in a province in the north part of the Netherlands. Hundreds of international and local young people choose Leeuwarden for their study. There are four big universities and a college. However, most of the international students, including me study at the university of NHL Stenden.
Why studying in Leeuwarden?
The first time when I heard of Leeuwarden was 3 years ago and I was not sure if this is the place where I want to spend the next few years of my life. Those doubts came from the company I was applying with and its presentation of the city. So, I decided to do my own research and what I found out was that this is actually an amazing student city. There are more than 30 000 students and plenty of fun activities to socialize. Now writing from my home in Leeuwarden I am glad that I took the decision to study here.
I came with my brother, so he can help me with moving in. On the third day we were already amazed by the city. There was everything I needed, to make my student life unforgettable. A vibrant city center, many restaurants and pleasant bars, as well as festivals and other fun events. Moreover, Leeuwarden is not too crowded or full of tourists like other cities in the Netherlands. What I like the most about the city, after living for almost 2 years here, is that everyone is very social and always open to help you. They would even try to have a conversation with you and ask more about your country or culture.
What do you need to know before you come?
Of course, you cannot always be 100% prepared and not everything will be as you expect it but here are some tips that will help you integrate faster and make your first months easier.
1. Start looking for accommodation in advance – there is a deficit of accommodation opportunities in the Netherlands. Even though, the problem in Leeuwarden is not so big, make sure to have a place when you arrive. For that purpose, search in the accommodation websites or Facebook groups at least 6 months in advance.
2. Be prepared for the cultural differences – depending on where you come from the cultural differences could be less or more recognizable. Nevertheless, you should always be prepared that they will be there.
3. Budgeting! –this is the tip I wish someone had told me before I moved on my own. As a student it is very important to control your spending. A budget will show you how much money you expect to generate and how it compares to your necessary spending.
Moving in a different country, all on yourself could sound scary or you may have doubts about it and this is completely normal when such a big change in your life is about to happened. But remember “life begins at the end of your comfort zone” so just do it.
