Study Abroad In Amsterdam

Not to sound cheesy, but studying in Amsterdam truly was a life-changing experience. As an international city, it gave me the chance to befriend people from all walks of life. The city itself is breathtaking, and its rich history and deep roots make it unlike any other place I've visited.

One of my favorite aspects was the biking culture. It made my experience unique compared to friends who studied abroad in other countries. Biking around Amsterdam is incredibly liberating and transforms this medium-sized city into an accessible, digestible space.

Another highlight was the professional and personal connections I built. The network I gained through my host university, the CIEE program, and its staff played a huge role in shaping my experience. The program did a great job fostering bonds among students. While at times it felt a bit like high school, I honestly found it refreshing and endearing. I wouldn’t have chosen to study anywhere else—it was truly the perfect fit.

That said, here are a few tips I wish I had known before starting the program:

Plan your travel later in the semester. Spend the early weeks exploring Amsterdam while the weather is nice. Later, when it becomes rainy and cold, it’s a better time to travel. This also gives you more time to settle in, make friends, and focus on academics first.

Stay on top of your academics. The university does not hold your hand. In many of my business school classes, a large portion of students failed the final exams, which accounted for the majority of their grades. While resit exams are offered, many international students have to fly home before they can take advantage of that option.

Budget for public transit. It’s expensive, so make sure to plan accordingly.