Emma is currently studying Psychology at The University of Amsterdam and has shared her experience with us!

Before I came to Amsterdam I had researched the city and university so that I knew what to expect (and look forward to!) When I landed I went straight from the airport to the caretakers office to collect my keys and this had been arranged beforehand so that I wouldn’t be stressed on my first day! University life has been great here so far. I am loving the new learning environment! It’s so interesting to see how different lecturers and universities teach.

Here in Amsterdam it is a lot more interactive with discussions being encouraged a lot, students putting their hands up and doing anonymous surveys. I was at first surprised by how often we have exams (once every 4 weeks) but I actually think this is a really good way of doing it as we are constantly assessed on smaller amounts of content. It’s great to get involved in activities outside of university life: I am part of the student squash club and next semester I am hoping to have some painting classes!

Studying abroad is the perfect opportunity to explore different places,  I have travelled around the Netherlands a bit- been to The Hague and Utrecht. I have also been to Munich for Oktoberfest and in 2 days’ time I am going to Copenhagen with  some friends to see all the Christmas festivities there. I am lucky in that I don’t feel homesick here at all and instead feel really settled. Having said this, the first couple of weeks were a bit overwhelming with making friends as it was like first year again. However, it all somehow works out and now I have a really fun group.

Finally, in terms of admin- be organised! I have a Dutch sim card so all my data is covered by that. It is a lot easier but does mean that I have to call my family through the internet (i.e. WhatsApp) as it would cost me to call internationally. I also have a Dutch bank account: I would really recommend this as a lot of the supermarkets weren’t accepting my UK card. Be prepared that your UK bank account may freeze your cards if you use them abroad as they think it’s fraud! Overall, my year abroad has been so fun so far!