I prefer doing and creating over heavy research

"Hi! I’m Annemijn, a first-year student at Global Project & Change Management. I’d like to share what it was like for me to start studying at GPCM with a mbo background. Before studying at GPCM, I did a mbo at Cibap in Zwolle. I started with International Creative Business Developer (marketing and design), which I really liked, but it felt quite conceptual. After two years I switched to creative craftsmanship (woodwork and design), which was very practical, but then I missed the theory.

After 5 years of studying, another 4 years felt like a lot. I also knew I didn’t just want to study to get a job, but to do something meaningful and actually contribute to society. Until I discovered GPCM at the open day. The structure, with 2 years of studying and 2 years of gaining experience abroad, made it feel much more doable. What really convinced me is that GPCM combines theory and practice in a way I was missing before, and that it focuses on projects that connect to real-world issues."

Was the transition from mbo to hbo difficult?

"I expected it to be a big challenge, but honestly, it wasn’t. Yes, there are differences, but my life experience and independence from mbo helped me more than extra theory would have.

The first year at GPCM really focuses on getting everyone to the same level, and there are students from many different backgrounds. Even if you feel like you’re not fully 'ready' for hbo yet, this study really helps you grow into it."

What is the community like?

"The first weeks were quite overwhelming, moving to a new city, meeting new people, and starting completely new classes. But everyone is in the same situation, so you figure things out together.

What really stands out is the connection between all years. Older students help you with notes, exams, and research. One message in the group chat and someone is there to help. That support makes a huge difference and makes you feel part of a community quite quickly."

How does GPCM differ from mbo?

"For me, the transition from mbo to hbo actually felt quite natural. During my mbo, I learned to experiment, not be perfect, and manage my time. At GPCM, you build on that by becoming more independent and doing more research. You do need to support everything with sources, which can feel intense at first, especially in more theory-heavy classes like world theories. But over time, you learn how to integrate this into your process. These classes are also balanced with more practical ones, like project management and personal development, so it doesn’t feel too heavy. The way of learning is still very project-based, which made it feel familiar to me."

How heavy is the workload?

"Honestly, it’s manageable. I usually spend around 8 hours a week on meetings, homework, and projects, except during deadlines when it gets busier.

Most days feel quite flexible, and you can really plan your own time. Compared to mbo, you have fewer class hours, which gives you more freedom. I still have time to work, relax, and see friends, which makes the study feel balanced."

What kind of projects do you work on?

"Right now I’m working on a self-designed research project about language and identity in education, where I can fully decide what I want to explore. At the same time, I’m working on a client project about diversity and inclusion at Windesheim, where you work based on the client’s needs.

This combination keeps it interesting and helps you figure out what you enjoy. For me, I realized that I prefer doing and creating over heavy research, even though I do find it interesting."

What do you want to do after GPCM?

"After this study, I would like to work in social design, creating change through art and design. I hope to combine what I learned in my previous studies with GPCM, and maybe even start my own small company."

Tip for future students

"Use this study to explore what you’re interested in and what gives you energy. You don’t have to have everything figured out yet.

And don’t worry too much about the intake process. The teachers and students really want you to succeed and are mostly looking for your motivation rather than your existing skills. If you’re curious and willing to learn, you’ll be fine."