Kayla Smith, Zimbabwe

Why Groningen?

When I first decided that I wanted to study at a university, I explored options all over the world. However, after reading up about the place that was voted ‘best student city in the Netherlands’, my choice was made far easier. I planned a visit to Groningen beforehand so I could see the city for myself before committing to three years there, and I instantly loved it. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the relatively small size of the city means that everything is within biking/walking distance. Groningen also has market days a few times a week that take place in the Grote Markt. I had never experienced anything like this before, and I absolutely adore the local vendors and all the amazing deals in fresh produce they offer every week! Though moving to a new city can be nerve-wracking, you would be surprised how quickly you find a new group of people that you identify with and can tackle the challenges of a new place together with.

Why the University of Groningen?

Though there are several universities and tertiary education facilities in Groningen, I had my heart set on the University of Groningen, or the RUG as it is more colloquially known. A major aspect for me in choosing my university was the fees, and, as I was a European citizen (at the time anyway, Brexit has a lot to answer for), I qualified for the rather economical payment of around €2000 a year. In addition, I was able to receive money from the Dutch government in the form of studiefinance, and this helped solidify my decision to study even more. The University of Groningen boasts a position in the Top 100 charts, and this element of prestige was certainly another element in my decision. In addition, I really liked the idea of having lectures, which are less hands-on and can have hundreds of students together; alongside the smaller working groups that many faculties offer, which are often classes of no more than around 15 students, which are far more interactive and personal.

Biography

I was born and raised in Zimbabwe, with a British father and a Dutch mother, so the move to Groningen was somewhat natural. Though the weather definitely took some getting used to after living in a place that is literally called “Sunshine City”, I soon found my stride – and a waterproof jacket, which I cannot recommend enough. I began studying at the RUG in 2017, where I studied a BA in Media Studies and Journalism. I absolutely loved that programme and the Faculty of Arts, and I learnt about so much more than just the media. In 2018, I was offered a place in the Honours College and gladly accepted, and there I took many classes that were completely out of my comfort zone, but I was so grateful for the opportunity to pursue different interests of mine. At the start of that academic year, I also began my LLB in International and European Law, which I am currently completing. Though Journalism is my true calling, I felt it important for my future employability to also be well versed in a broad area, and this programme was the perfect thing for that. In 2019, I completed a minor in Classics, Ancient Civilizations and Archaeology, and was entirely blown away by the amount of history that I learnt over such a short period of time. In that same year, I was also the secretary, and later the president of the law student association Nexus, and learnt a lot about work-life balance in my board year. I am so excited to be an ambassador for the RUG, as the University has given so much to me over the past four years, and I cannot wait to give something back!

I am more than happy to answer any and all questions you may have about the Faculty of Law or Arts, and also Honours College. Looking forward to hearing from you soon.