Junior year of college is filled with lots of exciting decisions. One of the biggest questions - to study abroad, or not to study abroad? This semester (Spring 2017), I am studying abroad at the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands. Here's why I decided to do so:
1. It's an amazing experience.
If you talk to any graduating Tufts seniors, most of them will tell you that one of their most meaningful experiences during college was studying abroad. For me, the decision to go to the University of Amsterdam was simple. It is easy and efficient to travel around Europe from The Netherlands, providing me with the opportunity to explore a variety of cultures and countries.
2. Studying abroad is common at Tufts.
40-45% of all Jumbos study abroad during their time at Tufts. Whether through a Tufts study-abroad program or a non-Tufts program, Jumbos love to learn while traveling the world!
3. You can eat some great food!
I'm looking forward to the appeltaarts, stroopwafels, and cheese. Luckily for me, Amsterdam is one of the world's most cyclist-friendly cities and I plan on riding my bike to class every day to burn off all of the yummy Dutch food!
4. Learning new languages through immersion and academics is unbeatable.
Aside from taking an Introduction to Dutch class twice a week this semester, I will be interacting with Dutch students on a daily basis at the University.
5. There are lots of opportunities for adventure.
Though I have not yet arrived in Amsterdam, I know that my semester will be filled with lots of adventures. I look forward to blogging about them on JumboTalk!
Tot de volgende keer! To read more about studying abroad as a Tufts student, click here.