Rocio Aguilar Suarez, Mexico

Why Groningen?

Enrichment beyond academic knowledge
Upon finishing high school, I became driven and very motivated to study abroad. As such, I started visiting fairs where international universities presented themselves, and began checking the websites of universities abroad. I was looking for a university that could meet 3 conditions: i) an engaging study programme in English, ii) attractive research groups, and iii) being a top 100 university in the world. The University of Groningen ticked these boxes. Looking back, I am really content with the quality of Education that I received at the University of Groningen, its lab facilities and the supervision from top-level researchers. I came to Groningen for the intellectual value, but the experience enriched me beyond academic knowledge. Studying in Groningen has been one of the best decisions that I have taken, and this experience has undoubtedly become a landmark in my life. If you come to study at the University of Groningen, take advantage of the resources and opportunities to develop yourself.

Embracing the differences and enjoying them
Coming from a warm city, I was excited the day I arrived in Groningen because it was snowing, but I was also freezing cold. Gradually, I got used to the Dutch weather, so that some rain or freezing temperatures could not stop me from running (as a work out, not to escape the country). You will discover that nothing hinders Dutch people from neither biking nor from running. The difference in temperature along the year in Groningen makes you enjoy the seasons even more. Imagine swimming in the lake in summer, or ice skating over the frozen ponds in winter. Spring and autumn are also particularly enjoyable thanks to the nice parks and green areas in the city.

In particular, I loved that I could reach the University in only a few minutes. I had a lot of extra time every day since I did not need to commute for hours as I was used to in Mexico City. I felt that my week was 8 days long and I had enough time to learn Dutch, frequently meet my friends, participate in extracurricular activities and do sports. I immediately became an ACLO enthusiast and I was at the sport center almost every day. Although the landscape in the Netherlands is flat, you can in fact practise mountain biking, climbing or get the moves for snowboarding and skiing. By the way, do not forget to visit the Hunebedden, do Wadlopen and try all the sports that you want at ACLO.

Another difference is the availability of food from your own country. I remember that a third of my luggage was full of Mexican food when I arrived in Groningen. For the homesick moments there is nothing like eating food that tastes like home. Fortunately, every year you can find more and more products and ingredients from your own country. Plus, having international friends will allow you to discover new flavours. Sharing your culture through food is especially enjoyable.

PhD life, a special path
My life as a Master’s student was great, but my life as a PhD student was even better. As a PhD candidate you become the manager of your own research projects. It can be demanding, but it also gives you a lot of freedom. Look for a supervisor that is a good match for you, both personally and scientifically. I had a great supervisor who supported me and promoted my development. I made an effort to obtain meeting and travel grants, and became a speaker at different international conferences. Keep in mind that research can be stressful, but if you have any kind of troubles, do not hesitate to look for support. I also like the style of Dutch PhD defences, the settings make the day extra special. I entered the Aula very nervous for my PhD defence and went out super happy with my PhD degree. Hora finita!

Why the University of Groningen?

The University of Groningen offers several courses, services and opportunities besides the normal academic courses. I learned Dutch at the University, took soft skill courses and I got fruitful career development advice. You can also have the opportunity to take action in the organization of the student life becoming a member of student organizations, program committees or even the University Council. Being part of the University Council gave me the opportunity to participate actively in the decision- and policy making process of the University. Explore and exploit the opportunities offered by the University of Groningen. Remember to stay active!

Biography

Rocío Aguilar Suárez studied Chemistry, Bacteriology and Parasitology at the National Polytechnic Institute in Mexico City where she graduated with honours. In addition to her studies, she was involved in policy activities within the Institute. After her graduation, she did a research stay at the Center of Research and Advanced Studies in Merida, Mexico. Later, she worked at Johnson and Johnson in the medical division. In 2013, she was awarded with a grant from the Mexican government to pursue a Master’s degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at the University of Groningen. During her studies she did research stays at the Groningen Institute Biomolecular Sciences & Biotechnology and the University Medical Center Groningen. During this time, she fell in love with Groningen and became a PhD candidate at the University of Groningen. During her PhD trajectory, she was a visiting researcher at the University of Greifswald, and the Institute for Systems biotechnology at Saarland University in Germany. Besides her research activities, she was a member of the University Council of the University of Groningen. After obtaining her PhD degree, Rocio moved to the city of Basel to join FGen GmbH as a Research Scientist.

If you have any questions about the application procedure, studying and living in Groningen or anything else, please feel free to contact Rocio.