I knew multiple people who had previously studied in Maastricht through the Center for European Studies, and I only heard positive things regarding the program. Plus, I have family friends who live in the neighboring town, and everyone speaks English here! Also, the courses I was planning on taking all transferred back to my home university and counted towards my major.
Alumni Spotlight: Haley Crowley
Photos
Why did you choose this program?
What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
The CES staff were very helpful throughout my time in Maastricht; they constantly were willing to provide support for students and made it apparent that they were available to assist no matter how small the question. It was great to know that the staff was so supportive and readily available to assist students with their needs!
They organized housing and planned activities for us. I had to organize my own weekend trips for each weekend since they were on our own time and were not associated with the program itself.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
Pack for various types of weather! One moment it can be hot and humid, and the next it’ll be pouring rain! Also, don't forget about the importance of bikes! I don't think anyone should be nervous about biking around Maastricht. It's very easy to get acclimated to riding them. It saves so much time and makes you feel like a local Dutchie!
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
We had class every Monday through Thursday, which was great since we would always have a long weekend, which was usually dedicated to traveling elsewhere. Each day, I only had class for about four hours, and once class was over, I would then finish that day’s homework or prepare for the next day’s class.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
I was most nervous about traveling around Europe by myself and having to figure out how the public transportation works and differs from country to country, especially since I'm not the greatest with directions, and we drive everywhere in America! Honestly though, the public transportation throughout Europe is very straightforward and easy to understand; being able to comprehend public transportation has made me a much more confident traveler!
What was your favorite thing about studying in Maastricht?
I love how centrally located Maastricht is, you can be in Germany or Belgium within an hour by train! Not to mention, it's two and a half hours away from Amsterdam. Even if you are wanting to stay local for the weekend, there is always something to do in Maastricht as well!