From Germany and the USA to Groningen
“For a long time, I didn’t know what I wanted to study, let alone where. When I finally realised Psychology was the right choice for me, I started searching for the best universities and came across Groningen”, says Natalie (22) from Germany and the USA.
That search brought her to the University of Groningen (UG). She knew she wanted to study abroad in English, and the UG programme fit her criteria perfectly. “The campus looked beautiful on the website, and in reality, it’s even better. There are so many opportunities for extracurriculars and engagement, like the Honours programme, where I’m highly active.”
What she values most about the UG is the flexibility and involvement students have. “I love the mixture of big lectures and small classrooms, and the fact that you can choose courses that really interest you instead of following a strict schedule. The amount of student voice and student involvement is incredible. I’m still fascinated by how much students do both inside and outside the university.”
The city is buzzing with students from all over the world, which makes it easy to feel at home quickly. The teaching is supportive and stimulating, and you’re given the freedom to shape your own studies.
For Natalie, Groningen has also been the perfect-sized city. “It’s not overwhelmingly big, so it’s easy to make and meet friends. I’ve always felt welcomed here, and being in such an international environment has allowed me to grow academically and personally, expand my network, and make unforgettable memories. If I had to choose a university again, I would always choose the University of Groningen.”
Looking ahead...
She hopes to stay at the UG for her Master’s, with a focus on social psychology. Eventually, she would like to work as a consultant, and the internationalism of the UG gives her confidence that she can build a career anywhere in the world.
Her advice to students who are still unsure about Groningen? “Don’t be afraid to take the leap. The UG is not just about getting a degree, it’s a whole experience. The city is buzzing with students from all over the world, which makes it easy to feel at home quickly. The teaching is supportive and stimulating, and you’re given the freedom to shape your own studies. I can only recommend choosing the University of Groningen, and hope to see you around on campus and in the city!”