CES Maastricht University

My experience abroad was life-changing. My classes at Maastricht University were engaging and captivating, I've made lifelong friends, and the small-city environment is very welcoming to outsiders. Not only do you get the cultural immersion without too much tourism, but you are welcomed with open arms into the community. The staff are incredibly helpful, and the diversity of the people included is fantastic. I made friends from many countries, and expanded my understanding of different cultures.

It can be said that what I learned this time was not only in class, but also outside of class. In class, for the first time, I really exchanged ideas with classmates from the United States and completed group assignments together. Outside of class, I became good friends with many of them. Even though they have returned to the United States now, we still keep in touch. Maybe it’s because I have lived in Shanghai since I was a child, and most of my good friends are still in Shanghai. Before, I only had a vague concept of the word "parting". But this time, I finally felt that some partings may mean that it will be difficult to meet in the future. Sadness and regret are inevitable. But I feel lucky enough to meet them and become friends.

In addition, since I am a student majoring in Dutch, I have also had a preliminary understanding of the Netherlands in these nearly two months of life. I know how to buy train tickets, how to rent a bicycle, and how to find fresh herring. The accumulation of this kind of daily life experience will be of great help to my one-year study abroad life in the Netherlands, because I returned to the Netherlands on August 20, 2024, just two weeks later, and started a new round of study abroad life.

There are definitely some difficulties. In a strange country, when I really start to live independently for the first time, many unexpected things will naturally happen one after another. For example, I don’t know where I put my student card, I don’t know how to apply for traffic, I don’t know how to open a Dutch bank account, etc. However, the reason why people can grow is because they encounter various difficulties and eventually overcome them. I did it. Looking back, these difficulties have also become part of my beautiful memories.

Regarding suggestions and opinions, I sincerely hope that the Excellence Academy can continue this summer program. I really gained a lot, and I believe that everyone will also gain a lot.

This study abroad experience gave me the opportunity to immerse in what Dutch culture is like. I got to try famous foods, learn some phrases, and talk with individuals who have lived in Maastricht their whole life. The entire CES team was so friendly, and welcoming to our group, and they always gave us the opportunity to freely ask questions. I got to experience Maastricht culture as well as explore outside of the city. Through CES we were able to take trips to other surrounding cities as well as other countries. This experience really opened the door for me to continue to travel outside of study aboard as well as gave me insight on what it looks like to study at a Dutch university. I enjoyed every moment of my program and would highly recommend it to anyone interested.

I’m so glad I chose to study with CES Maastricht! The professors were so kind and helpful in explaining the material. The classes were more discussion based than I was used to, which made the material much more engaging.

Maastricht is a beautiful city and great for student life. Because it is so conveniently located, I was able to travel to many other countries and cities too.

The group trips CES coordinated for us were extremely well run, and it was very apparent that the CES staff really care that every student has a positive experience here. Thanks to their efforts and support, my time in Maastricht was truly a once in a lifetime experience!

Centered in Europe, Maastricht University has ample opportunity for travel and international learning experiences. The smaller city setting helps build a strong community, great educational support, and lifelong friends.

The CES staff is a wonderful group of people genuinely interested in the well being and quality education of its students. They they will always do their best to be there for you.

I have learned an incredible amount about different cultures, histories, and practical life skills from my travels. The education style has also challenged and helped me be invested in my studies while making new lifelong connections.