Erasmus+ postcard from Netherlands
Milica Medojević, Fatima Balić, and Nemanja Bošković, students of the Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality in Kotor, write to us about their experience with Erasmus+ mobility at the University of Applied Sciences in Breda, where they are currently spending the summer semester:
Fatima, Nemanja, and I, Milica, are students at the Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality in Kotor, and we are currently participating in a semester exchange in the Netherlands.
Upon arrival, it wasn’t easy to adapt right away – the cultural differences were noticeable. However, thanks to the support of fellow exchange students and friends, we managed to adjust to the study methods and lifestyle in the Netherlands. Professors are always available and willing to help, and our classmates welcomed us from day one. We have classes two to three times a week, each lasting four hours. After that, we usually spend our free time studying and exploring the Netherlands.
We’ve met many students from different parts of the world, but Fatima and I have made the best connection with students from South Korea. They study at another university, Avans, which is also located in Breda. We became friends after an event called Buddy Night, which really helped us balance our academic responsibilities with our social lives and also realize that everyone goes through similar challenges when adjusting to studying in a foreign country.
Nemanja met students from Finland, China, and Ireland through various clubs offered by the university.
We especially enjoy the cultural activities in Breda, the city where we study. However, we deeply miss the sea and the Bay of Kotor!
Before this exchange, we hadn’t had the opportunity to travel through the Erasmus+ program, but now, Fatima and I have visited several cities in the Netherlands, as well as Paris, which left a strong impression on us. We are planning to visit some cities in Belgium and Germany soon. Nemanja has also explored many Dutch cities, as well as Antwerp and Brussels.
The study approach is significantly different. At the University of Montenegro, lectures and exams are mostly focused on theoretical knowledge and traditional learning methods. In contrast, at the University in Breda, courses can be completed through assignments, group projects, and oral group exams.
We believe this exchange has broadened our horizons and will greatly contribute to our academic and personal development. We even had the chance to celebrate some local holidays, such as King’s Day, which helped us better understand Dutch culture and customs.
I believe everyone should take the opportunity to go on an exchange. However, it’s important to know that it comes with a lot of paperwork and that adapting to a new education system is not always easy. For us, that was one of the biggest challenges. Still, you shouldn’t give up – every obstacle and uncertainty on that journey leads to an unforgettable experience. That’s something to always keep in mind.