Imke about going on exchange
Receiving a Holland Scholarship clinched it for Online Culture student Imke: she looked outside Europe to go on exchange. In the Fall of 2021 she went on exchange to the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada. She received this scholarship based on her grade average: 7.92. “During the information meeting of Study Abroad & Exchange Office, someone pointed out this scholarship to me and explained how I could apply for it. Otherwise I might have chosen a destination in Europe.”
Imke did not go on exchange until she had completed all her courses. “I mainly went to broaden my horizon, to become more independent, and because I thought it would be a wonderful experience. The courses I took there were about subjects that I found interesting, like literature and women’s rights.” She explains that this really supplemented her Tilburg curriculum. “As a result of this experience, I have a broader and stronger theoretical background in subjects that I want to concentrate on in my career.”
And Canada was a wonderful experience in itself. “The people there are generally quite open, nice, and helpful. I noticed that the moment we arrived. We had to get from the station to our residence. Of course everyone was carrying heavy bags and suitcases. And everyone in our party was offered help.” Besides studying, Imke also undertook other activities. “I did a lot of traveling within Canada, went out with friends, participated in activities of International House – a kind of international student association – and spent a lot of time at the gym. Membership was free, so we made good use of it!” Imke made many friends in Canada. “I have friends in many European countries now. And we still go on holiday together.”
“Just take the leap!” That is Imke’s advice when it comes to choose whether or not to go on exchange. She puts things in perspective: “Of course it matters why you have doubts, but I would recommend that you do everything in your power to make it happen. Everyone I know who went thought it was a worthwhile experience.” Would you like to have a similar experience and are you worried about the financial aspects? Read everything about how to apply for a scholarship.
More information on scholarships
Do you want to know more about exchange in general? The upcoming deadlines for registration are February 2 and March 30. The latter is also the deadline for signing up for exchange in the next Fall semester.
Disclaimer: Exchanges in the academic year 2023/24 will go ahead subject to the COVID-19 situation.
