Living the Exchange Life at Nyenrode: Friends, Fun, and Learning in the Netherlands
Meet Dang Thu Ha, a Business Administration student from VinUniversity in Hanoi, Vietnam. In this article, she shares her experiences studying and living on the beautiful Breukelen campus, where she’s found inspiring professors, scenic surroundings, and a close-knit international community. Discover why Nyenrode has been a memorable chapter in her journey!
Could you please introduce yourself briefly?
My name is Dang Thu Ha. I’m a senior Business Administration student coming from VinUniversity in Ha Noi, Viet Nam!
What attracts you to the Netherlands?
I was recommended by a friend who went to Nyenrode for an exchange last year! I did a thorough research on the different countries I could go to for my exchange and the Netherlands stuck out to me for a variety of factors: good education system, high percentage of English speakers, beautiful scenery and most importantly - convenient location to travel Europe. My friend spoke very positively of her experience at Nyenrode as well and that’s when I decided to come here!
"Since we’re all staying together in the campus dormitory, it feels like we’re always doing everything together – from cooking to doing the laundry to going to the campus bar. It is really easy to get to know everyone and I really appreciate the opportunity!"
-Dang Thu Ha, BScBA Exchange Student
How would you describe your experience in the classrooms and on the campus at Nyenrode Breukelen?
I really like nature so the Breukelen campus is perfect for me. I don’t think there’s a lot of places where you can go to school and see ducks and coots swimming peacefully through the canals, or deers and peacocks roaming around the campus – or even outside of your doorstep! Whenever I’m stressed, I just take a stroll around the campus and all the greeneries would make me feel right at ease.
Do you believe having international students is valuable at a Dutch university?
Not just a Dutch university – I think every university would benefit from having a robust community of international students. Different backgrounds brings different perspectives, different ways of thinking and especially for a business schools, it is crucial for students to have a diverse approach to problem-solving since businesses are conducted differently across the globe.
What are your goals or plans for the future?
My short-term plan is looking for an internship to finish my final semester. I’m interested in the intersection between Marketing and Data and is looking for opportunities in Market Research/Marketing Analytics. In the longer run, I’m thinking of getting a master degree after having couple years of work experience. I haven’t decided on when or where but who knows - maybe I’ll come back to Europe!