What was the main reason why you chose International Business (IB) at Hogeschool Rotterdam/Rotterdam University of applied sciences?
I remember having a gap year and I was travelling. I had applied to many study programmes. I thought I wanted to do something in fashion or psychology. I decided to look for something different that would allow me to develop myself more. The internship possibly of International Business caught my eye and I liked the idea of studying Mandarin. The fact that also international students apply for this study programme made it even more appealing. So, I took that opportunity and I applied.
How do you experience the quality of education at International Business?
Good quality education has been provided for sure. You should know I started the course during Covid-19. It was a crazy time for everyone so there were challenges with offline and online classes. I remember I was learning Mandarin for the first time, we gathered online and we had to say ‘hello’ in Mandarin, so we were screaming ‘Ni hao’ all at the same time. As said, things were different and challenging, but I adapted well and the teachers as well. The quality offered has always been good whether that was online or offline.
Can you tell us a little bit more about the support that you received from faculty and staff?
I would say good support is offered, although I did not realise that in the first year, but when uncertainty came around the corner, I got the support needed. My coach has been an important point of contact.
What do you like the most about studying International Business?
The international environment! It is great to be surrounded by so many international people that I would have otherwise not met. I have heard so many stories from students with different backgrounds, cultural and language wise. In the intercultural competences’ classes, we got familiar with other cultures and these were actually my favourite classes. Also, in other classes I could listen to stories and opposite views because of the diversity of the student population, which is what I love about International Business.
Do you have any tips for future students who would like to study International Business?
I think it is important that students realize the importance of a successful year 1. In year 1 you get introduced to all the subjects and it might be more theoretical than the other years to come, but it gives a good foundation to be successful the years after. In year 2 you start solving business cases and get more involved in businesses in general. In year 3 you apply all the knowledge by going on your internship. Looking back, I wish I would have applied for also some more extracurricular activities, but at that time I felt I was not ready for it. But I would have been, so I like to advise new students: go for it, have fun, but also keep studying and passing all your exams in mind.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
That is a complicated question. It could be internationally or somewhere in the Netherlands. I do know that at this point I would like to continue broaden my horizon. Most important is that I can be proud of myself whether that is now, next year or in 10 years from now.