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author
Barbara Ravbar
Barbara
Ravbar
faculty
Faculty of Social Sciences
academic year of the stay
2023/2024
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author
Barbara
faculty
Faculty of Social Sciences
academic year of the stay
2023/2024
traineeship
study stay
short-term mobility
other
International Institute of Social Sciences
How does Barbara rate their stay?
university
city
accommodation
financial demands
about university
What made your university special? What were the facilities where you studied and the university equipment like?
I visited the International Institute of Social Studies (part of the Erasmus University Rotterdam) as a visiting researcher and third-year Ph.D. candidate. The ISS is a great place to study - warm, friendly, and inclusive. Everyone is trying to include you in their work, projects, and interests while also being respectful of your schedule and work-life balance. I've met some great colleagues there and am looking forward to seeing them again!
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about your "adoptive" university? What made it special? What were the premises where you studied and the university facilities like?
I would highly recommend this institution to not only other Ph.D.s but also other master's students. Since my position as a visiting researcher was a bit different than the usual student exchange, I can only speak from my experience. The atmosphere is very friendly, and the level of your studies doesn't matter - they treat you as equals and respect your opinion, which I really liked.
What is student life like at university?
I can't answer that since I didn't take any lectures. My stay was focused on academic collaboration on a research project.
Did you study in English or in the language of the host country? What language requirements does the university have?
Since the ISS is very international, the language of communication is English. Advanced level is recommended to be able to full participate in all opportunities this Institute offers.
about the city
What was your impression of the city? How would you describe it? What is interesting to see here?
The Hague is a calm and friendly city. It's not too big, and getting around on foot, by bike, or on public transport is easy. Public transport can get expensive, so many people use bikes as their primary means of transportation. It is quite international and English language-friendly. The Hague is also a seaside city, so during warmer months you can enjoy sunbathing or surfing at the beautiful and clean city beach.
about finances
In your experience, how far does the scholarship go? What percentage of your expenses did it cover? What is your opinion on prices in the country in general?
My scholarship was provided through the Erasmus+ program, and it sufficiently covered plane tickets, accommodation, public transport tickets, and everyday expenses. Groceries are more expensive than in Prague, but not significantly, and the public transport tickets can pile up and rack up the budget.
Note that the accommodation in the Netherlands is generally very expensive. I secured a spot in the student dormitory (but the demand is usually very high), which is good for the pocket and for developing friendships. Contact your Institute's accommodation office or DUWO - an organization through which you can search for student accommodation in the Netherlands.
Please advise your classmates on how to save money—Where to shop? What services can be used to save money?
I would recommend biking as the biggest asset in saving money. Also, there are plenty of shopping centers where you can buy groceries at a discount. A good option is also searching for your local farmers market, which is usually cheaper and has a bigger range of fresh produce - but bring cash!
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about accommodation
What type of accommodation did you choose? Would you recommend it to others? If not, what type of accommodation do you think is best based on your experience (dormitory, private apartment, private dormitory, shared room, etc.)?
I got the accommodation in the student dormitory. One big positive thing that surprised me is that as a student, you get a welcome package with the basic stuff you will need during your stay in the dorm - a plate, a bowl, a mug, a set of sheets and linens, a pot and a pan, one set of cutlery, a pillow, and a duvet. This is all provided by DUWO, and it's really useful since you don't have to worry about bringing your stuff.
about experiences
Did you use Erasmus stay to travel around your country/Europe? What are your best travel experiences? What would you not recommend?
Since the Netherlands is well-connected with trains, I used that and visited nearby cities. To plan your trip, use app 9292, which will help you plan your trip in the country. You can also buy train tickets through it. To get around the city (or country), use OV Chipkaart. You can make your personalized card, or you can buy an anonymous card at almost every train station. The OV Chipkaart covers you for the busses, trains, trams, and even bike renting through the Netherlands. Just remember to scan it at the entrance and exit - if you don't scan it at the exit, they will charge you as you took a longer trip because the charge is by the distance.
Language and culture: what cultural differences did you notice? How did you cope with the national language? Was it also the language of your studies? Do you feel that your language skills improved during your stay?
The Netherlands is quite English-friendly so you can get around with the knowledge of English just fine. For some more local experiences, there may be some issues, but there is always someone who can translate.
final rating
Why here? What makes this location special? Why would you send your friends to your country/city?
I focused on this Institute because its area of expertise is closely connected to my research interests. If you are interested in human rights and socially sensitive and inclusive research, this is the place for you.
live-saving tips
If I went again, I would definitely remember to pack...
...raincoat and warm clothes. The weather in the Netherlands is quite unpredictable.
Before leaving, I would like to know that...
...I will get my utensils and linens, so I don't bring my own and save some space in the suitcase.
What surprised me most was that...
The hardest thing for me was...
...openness and friendliness of the people and warm vibe of the city.
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