Photos of Maastricht City taken by Beth Cooper while on Exchange.
Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine. So when I got the opportunity to participate in an exchange program at Maastricht University in the Netherlands, I jumped at the chance. I had always heard great things about the university and the city, and I was excited to see what it was all about.
If you’re undecided about whether to go on exchange, this a great read to highlight all that you will gain both academically and personally by stepping beyond your comfort zone.
A good challenge
My exchange experience was great. Maastricht University was challenging, but it was a good challenge. Upon arriving in Maastricht, I was struck by the beauty of the city. The medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and charming cafes made it feel like a fairytale town. But it wasn't just the aesthetics that impressed me—it was the people. Everyone I met was friendly and welcoming, eager to help me settle into my new surroundings. Meeting the people you spent most of your time with was the best thing—and seeing how those relationships develop after you are finished.
As for the university, I was blown away by the academic rigor and innovative teaching methods. Maastricht University is known for its problem-based learning approach, which emphasizes collaboration and real-world applications. This was a big change from the lecture-style classes I was used to back home, but I found it to be incredibly engaging and effective.
One of my favorite experiences at Maastricht University was a group project I did with my classmates. We were given a real-world problem to solve, and we had to work together to come up with a solution. It was challenging, but it was also incredibly rewarding to see our ideas come to life.
Beyond the classroom
Outside of class, there was no shortage of things to do in Maastricht. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and theatres galore. And, of course, there was the food. I had some of the best meals of my life in Maastricht, from traditional Dutch fare to international cuisine.
But perhaps the most memorable aspect of my exchange experience was the people I met. I made friends from all over the world, and we shared so many amazing experiences together. From exploring the city to travelling around Europe on weekends, I felt like I was part of a truly global community.
Reflecting back
Looking back on my time at Maastricht University, I can honestly say it was one of the best experiences of my life. I learned so much, both academically and personally, and I gained a new perspective on the world. I would recommend studying abroad to anyone who has the opportunity, and I would especially recommend Maastricht University as a top-notch destination.