by Molly Hayward, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands
Having done a year studying Social and Behavioural Sciences at the University of Amsterdam, and two years studying Geography at University of Manchester these are just five overall differences I noticed in university teaching style.
Continue reading “How does UVA differ from UOM?”by Molly Hayward, the University of Amsterdam, Netherlands
Welcome to the gastronomic wonderland that is Amsterdam. Nestled along picturesque canals and charming cobblestone streets, this city is not only a feast for the eyes but also a paradise for food enthusiasts. From quaint cafes serving buttery stroopwafels to trendy eateries offering innovative fusion cuisine, Amsterdam has something to tantalize every palate. In this blog, I will guide you to the hidden gems and well-known favourites that make Amsterdam a true food lover’s haven.
Join us as we meander through the city’s historic neighbourhoods, discovering the stories and flavours that make each dining spot unique. From traditional Dutch dishes like bitterballen and poffertjes to international delights from every corner of the globe, Amsterdam’s dining scene is as diverse as its residents. Get ready to indulge your senses and ignite your taste buds as we uncover the best places to eat in Amsterdam, one delectable bite at a time.
Continue reading “Nice places to eat in Amsterdam”
By Txell Borràs, University of Bocconi, Milan.
It has only been 10 days since I moved to Milan, and it already feels like a new home. To be honest, I did not have the best of welcomes, since the day I arrived we were on a government alert for heavy rain and the flight was delayed several times. However, the amazing experiences I have lived so far overweigh the chaos of the first days.
Continue reading “Moving to Milan”by Catherine Bird, University of Aarhus, Denmark
By Molly Hayward, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam can be a very expensive city so any ways to save money are always welcome. I decided at the beginning of the year to buy the MuseumKaart for 64.90 Euros. In this post I will outline some of the galleries it covers in Amsterdam and how much money was saved.
Continue reading “Is the MuseumKaart worth it?”
By Tali Hamshaw, University of Bergen, Norway
I arrived in Bergen on the 10th August feeling terrified and wondering why I had decided to put myself through this. But what I thought would be a difficult first week of adjusting quickly turned into one of the best weeks!
Continue reading “Birthday week in Bergen – what I got up to and tips for the first week!”
by Nia Clarke, Universiteit van Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Sat round the dinner table with my Manchester-Amsterdam friends, we do a quickfire round of advice to prospective students. This is a mixture of personal reflections and academic insights that I have collated and hope they are valuable to somebody.
Continue reading “A guide to your year abroad and academic development in the ‘Dam”By Isabelle Lydon, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest
As I reflect on the end of my study abroad, I was thinking about things I wish I knew before going that are not stressed enough or that nobody tells you about. I thought this would be a good post for people to read before they go. This post is completely based on my own personal experiences and encounters on my time abroad and it may be different to what you may or have experienced so please do bear this in mind.
Continue reading “Things I Wish I Knew Before Going on a Year Abroad✈️🌍”
by Jasmine Angus, University of Bergen, Norway
In many blog posts, we often read about the transition to a placement country, cultural differences, newfound independence, language barriers, and unforgettable adventures. However, one aspect that is never discussed is the experience of moving back to the UK after what could possibly be one of the most extraordinary years of your life. This transition can be both comforting and homely, yet also asphyxiating and sad. It brings conflicting emotions, as you navigate between newfound independence and your parents asking if you’ll be okay to sort yourself out for dinner. “Yes mum, I’ve been feeding myself for the past 10 months, I think I can manage one night by myself!” But returning from a year abroad, independence feels more instinctive, and if you’re anything like me, you may feel protective over your ability to navigate this big scary world all by yourself. Therefore, coming back to the familiar confines of my childhood room, which I spent WAY too many hours sitting in during COVID, feels like a regression in personal development.
Continue reading “One Month Back: Transitioning back to UK life after a year abroad”
By Hannah Carter-Moore, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands
Two days ago I moved back to the UK. There’s a lot to process so please do get comfy and indulge in the sentimentality with me for a sec. It honestly feels like last week since I made the move to Amsterdam in the first place. To put it in just a few words, it’s been a transformative year.
The process of moving to a new country, nurturing new friendships and finding my feet as an outsider-turned-local seemed intimidating at first but has turned out to be one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself. There’s something about being dropped into a totally different environment – new culture, new language, new people – that fast-tracks your confidence and resilience as an individual. It’s seen me grow hugely as both a person and student. If there’s one piece of advice I could give to anyone at university, it would be to study abroad, even if just for a semester.
Continue reading “Reflections on Amsterdam”
By Hannah Carter-Moore, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands
Now that I’ve finished my year in Amsterdam it feels like a good time to recap what uni has been like at UvA compared to UoM. If you’re considering studying in Amsterdam for your exchange, these might be some things you’d like to consider. Pros, cons, and everything in between!
Continue reading “Academics in Amsterdam: My Experience of Studying at UvA”by Jasmine Angus, University of Bergen, Norway
Farewell Bergen
All the cliches come to mind when trying to answer the question “What did you get from this year? My experience living abroad in Bergen, Norway was incredibly rewarding and life-changing. Undertaking this year abroad has granted me the unique privilege of immersing myself in a new culture and gaining a deeper understanding of the world. Living in Bergen, I have been constantly reminded of the beauty and simplicity of nature, something I will miss incredibly when back in Manchester. The opportunity to explore Norway’s rich history, unique traditions, and pristine natural wonders has broadened my horizons and instilled in me a profound appreciation for the exploration of new cultures. It has been a whirlwind with both the most insatiable highs and devastating lows. It has rounded me as an adult and I will always remember my time in Bergen.
Continue reading “Farvel (farewell) Bergen!”