International Business didn’t just prepare me for a career, it changed me as a person
What would you do if your life suddenly changed overnight? For Aleksiia, moving to another country wasn’t part of the plan. But what started as something uncertain turned into an experience that changed her life in ways she never expected. Curious how she built a new life, made friends, and found her place in the Netherlands? Keep reading.
"Starting my studies in the Netherlands was not something I had originally planned. Due to circumstances in Ukraine, I had to leave my home country, and suddenly I found myself building a new life from scratch. I had visited the Netherlands before and immediately fell in love with the atmosphere, the openness, the international environment and the quality of education."
Finding my place at Windesheim
"Choosing Windesheim felt right because of its personal approach. And looking back, that made all the difference. The beginning wasn’t easy. Adapting to a new country, a different education system and being far from home was challenging. But what helped me through it was the support system at Windesheim. The coaching system, the lecturers, and the people around me, it didn’t feel like just a university; it felt like a community. The teachers are approachable and genuinely care. That made me feel supported from the start."
Learning beyond the classroom
"What I appreciate most about International Business, is the balance between theory and practice. There are many projects, a lot of group work and a strong focus on real-life application. The small classes and international environment create the perfect setting to learn how to work with people from different cultures, which is exactly what international business is about.
One of the highlights of my study journey has definitely been the people and the experiences we shared. I didn’t just meet classmates, I built friendships that I know will last a lifetime. Together, we travelled, worked on projects, and experienced so much beyond the classroom."
International experiences
"Through the programme, I had the opportunity to do a minor in Florence, Italy. Besides that, I joined international BIP’s (Blended Intensive Programmes), and even took part in free space activities in Lombok, Indonesia. We also went on study trips across Europe. These experiences helped me grow not only professionally, but also personally."
Becoming more confident
"Over the last 4 years, I’ve changed a lot. In the beginning, I was trying to fit in. Now, I feel much more confident and at peace with who I am. Moving abroad at a young age, living independently, and building a life in a new environment pushed me to grow in ways I never expected. International Business didn’t just prepare me for a career, it changed me as a person. I found myself and I found my people.
I also became part of the DPC (Degree Programme Committee), where I developed leadership skills and contributed to improving the programme. This gave me a new perspective and was one of the highlights of my extracurricular activities."
Living in Zwolle
"I really enjoy life in Zwolle. It’s a cosy and welcoming student city with a strong community. There is always something to do if you look for it, whether it’s spending time with friends, having coffee in the sun, organizing a BBQ, or playing beach volleyball. Those small moments made this experience even more special."
My advice to future students
"Are you not sure what to study, but are you interested in business, an international environment, and opportunities to travel? This programme is a great place to start. Be open, take opportunities and make the most of your journey!"