‘Are there any international students in the room?’ Our lecturer frequently poses this question to the crowd of students. Or: ‘could someone please explain this Dutch phenomenon to our international students?’ My lecturer is aware of the variety of nationalities in his classroom and appreciates our contributions from different backgrounds. Studying at Radboud is changes our perspective by comparing the learned and discussed issues with the own, homegrown experience.

Nijmegen is a great city for internationals. It is cosy, friendly, open-minded and offers something for everyone. The university also organises great events, such as the Radboud Reflects lectures which are presented in English as well as in Dutch.

Having spent 6 weeks in Nijmegen so far, the only obstacle I and other internationals still have to overcome is the language. Personally, I try to make integration efforts by continuously learning new Dutch words and at least using basic expressions in every personal encounter with a Dutch person. I learned that if you show the locals that you do not neglect their language by directly approaching them in English, they are more than willing to help you and also correct your pronunciation.

With a German Dad who is worried about my safety when cycling in the Netherlands, I had to learn another important lesson when asking two different bike shop keepers if it was possible to install a handbrake on my bike. They both shook their heads and laughed at me: ‘That’s how we do it here in the Netherlands! Better get used to it!’ – pointing at new bikes without handbrakes attached to the handlebar, ready for sale. At least I have a backpedal brake on my bike – yet I still have to practice on coming to an abrupt halt in the Nijmeegse traffic.

I am looking forward to more encounters with Dutch students to share our different cultures and experiences – because this is precisely why student exchange programs have been established. Let’s mingle!

My lecturer knows me by now. ‘Where is our German student? Ah, there she is!’ And I proudly raise my hand to answer his question about politics in Germany.

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