From Greece to Groningen
Ever since 2017, Panagiota dreamed of moving to the Netherlands to study or work. Today, that dream has become reality: the 28-year-old from Greece is pursuing a Master’s in Marketing Management at the University of Groningen.
She felt ready for the next step...
After completing her Bachelor’s in Business Administration and working full-time in Athens for three years. “I wanted to further develop my knowledge and challenge myself in a new environment,” she explains.
Encouragement from friends and acquaintances who had studied at UG, together with her own research, convinced her that Groningen was the right choice. A practical detail also made the decision easier: the Faculty of Economics and Business did not require the GMAT at the time, which fit her situation perfectly.
Before arriving, Panagiota joined online information events to get a first impression of her programme. Once in Groningen, she attended the University-wide welcoming event at Minerva and the Faculty of Economics and Business introduction. “They were a really good starting point,” she says. “They helped me meet people, build a network, and feel at home from the very beginning.”
What stood out to her about UG and Groningen? The strong reputation in business, the positive word-of-mouth from former students, and the chance to live in the Netherlands, a country she has always wanted to experience.
It’s a great opportunity to move to a well-organised place where the university supports you and the city feels safe.
Looking ahead...
Her time here has been "very positive". She enjoys the atmosphere at Zernike Campus, where she spends many hours studying, collaborating with her team, or relaxing with friends in the food court. “The facilities are well-organised and clean, and the bike-friendly campus leaves a strong impression.” She also values the professors in her programme: “They are knowledgeable, friendly, supportive, and very up to date with what’s happening in the world.”
Panagiota wants to keep her options open. She hopes to stay in the Netherlands, or perhaps move elsewhere, to gain diverse experiences in roles that combine communication, people, and creativity. “I even have an entrepreneurial idea for the future,” she adds, “but for now I want to absorb as much as I can from the university, the city, and the people around me.”
Her advice to students in Greece? “It’s a great opportunity to move to a well-organised place where the university supports you and the city feels safe. Groningen is a true student city with many internationals. You’ll find opportunities, broaden your perspective, and learn a lot about yourself. Don’t worry about your English, it comes naturally, and professors are very understanding. It’s the perfect first step if you want to experience life abroad in a peaceful yet lively city. And if you ever miss home, there’s also a Greek community here to connect with.”