Jasmine Smith

University: Breda University of Applied Sciences

Course: International Media & Entertainment Management

Year: First Year

Home Town in the UK: Spalding, Lincolnshire

1. Why did you choose to study abroad?

I wanted a new adventure and a new challenge, so I did some online research on various different universities abroad which offer the course I am interested in; this is where I stumbled across Breda University of Applied Sciences in The Netherlands! Also, the price of universities in the UK completely put me off studying there… it is much, much cheaper to study here in The Netherlands, which is definitely a bonus.

2. How would you rate the assistance of the university before you arrived (the application process, finding accommodation, sorting out financial matters)?

The assistance of the university was okay. The application process was complicated as there were various documents which had to be submitted to the university, both electronically and via email.  When I had a few problems I found it difficult to resolve them as the communication and advice given from the university wasn’t always good; sometimes the advice stated on the Breda University of Applied Sciences website was insufficient so I had to be persistent with my communications.

Sorting out financial matters was rather complicated, too. It would have been good to have information on how to apply for grants, loans, insurance or health insurance, etc well in advance. For this, it is probably a good idea to set aside a bit of time to research these practical issues or get one of your parents to help you.

However, finding accommodation was simple enough and I am very happy with the room I found in Breda!

3. How would you rate the assistance of the university when you arrived (orientation etc)?

The university did a great job of giving us a taste of student life in The Netherlands, especially in the orientation and intro week, which I think really helped us to settle in… and most importantly we got to meet our fellow students and have a fun time!

4. Did you feel prepared when you arrived and/or what surprised you?

I did not feel completely prepared when I arrived. As I mentioned previously, I felt unsure on how to go about solving practical issues such as setting up a Dutch bank account, applying for health insurance, or even how to go about getting a loan or grant. I had to be proactive and find out about these things myself - I would advise reading up about these matters from outside sources to get you on the right track.

5. How would you rate the learning environment (teaching style, studying with other international students, non-native English speaking lecturers)?

I would rate the learning environment particularly well, although it is sometimes difficult with the language barriers in the classroom and lectures, for example, some teachers’ English may be of a higher standard than others so sometimes it is difficult, as a native English speaking person, to completely understand what is being said, although after a while it is easy to get a grasp of the teachers’ use of the English language.

6. Would you recommend studying abroad to a 17-18 year old Brit who might never have thought about it before?

Yes, definitely. It is a great new adventure you won’t regret in the slightest. Experiencing a new culture and studying in a new environment is what makes studying abroad so exciting!

7. Is there anything you wish someone had told you at the time you applied?

I wish someone had warned me how complicated and complex some arrangements would be, especially in terms of application-related matters! It takes time to organise everything you need for going to university and also the additional practical arrangements for moving abroad to study.

8. Would you recommend your course, university, city to British students?

Absolutely, I would recommend the course and the university to British students. Breda University of Applied Sciences is a fun, modern and exhilarating place to study. And as for Breda, the city is one of the most fun, safe and clean places I have visited! I love living here.