If you want to learn about what it is like to experience the Global Responsibility & Leadership (GRL) programme, no one shares that story better than our own student. In today's interview, we chat with Victoria, or Vicki, a second-year GRL student, chair of the Study Association Nobis Cura Futuri (NCF) and Student Assistant for our faculty. Who better to hear from than her?

Hi, Vicki! Thanks for agreeing to have a chat with us. Could you quickly introduce yourself?

Hey, I'm Vicki, a 19-year-old from Madrid, currently in my second year of the Global Responsibility & Leadership programme. I spent part of high school in Ireland, did the International Baccalaureate back in Spain, and now here I am. Also, this year I'm chairing the study association Nobis Cura Futuri. And because I love staying active, last year I juggled six different committees at NCF. Yeah, it was a bit wild!

Why did you choose to study Global Responsibility & Leadership at Campus Fryslan over other programmes?

I always knew I wanted a change from Spain, to escape repetitiveness and live independently. Looking abroad, the Netherlands had the most English-taught BSc options. When I stumbled upon "Global Responsibility & Leadership," it just felt right. I could see myself becoming an expert in that or at least focusing on it during my studies. Right now, I'm into the governance profile.

How is it to live in Leeuwarden?

It's interesting. First year, I lived in Kanaalstraat with my classmates; now, I'm in a cute little apartment with friends from back then. Leeuwarden is just the perfect size for a student living alone for the first time. Everything's within reach, plenty of options to keep entertained. Overall, you're close to friends and comforts. Of course, Dutch weather is, well, Dutch weather. It can get cold and rainy, but once you figure out how to dress, you'll get used to it and bond with other internationals over the shared discomfort. The food scene's great, lots of international options!

What opportunities do you have to socialize besides studying?

Maybe I'm a bit biased, but NCF is definitely the main hub for socializing. While Leeuwarden is a student city, connecting with students from other universities isn't automatic. NCF helps bridge that gap, bringing us students together to make things happen. Apart from that, the city offers plenty of sports facilities and classes. There's even a language café for practicing your target language or daring to learn a new one!

Is there anything else you would like to share to help prospective students decide in favor of this BSc programme?

One thing that might be hard to see from a distance is the sense of community in this small-sized environment. Thanks to that, you get close to fellow students and start understanding each other despite different backgrounds. It's something quite special.