Culture Shock in Groningen: Learning to Slow Down and Enjoy by Juliana Conover

When I first arrived in Groningen, I was immediately struck by how community-forward the city feels. I used to think Charleston was lively and full of activity, but Groningen redefined what that really means. For starters, the open-air market that pops up three times a week is a hub of energy. It’s not just a place to buy fresh food, it’s an experience. Locals stroll … Continue reading Culture Shock in Groningen: Learning to Slow Down and Enjoy by Juliana Conover

A Random Tuesday in Groningen by Juliana Conover

A random Tuesday in Groningen looks a lot different than one back home, and I must say, I think I prefer it this way. I usually wake up around 9 a.m. and head to the shared kitchen in my SSH student housing. The housing holds over 300 other international students and our kitchen is shared with 21 others (so it can get a bit dirty). … Continue reading A Random Tuesday in Groningen by Juliana Conover

Keuken 12 by Juliana Conover

The housing I chose to stay in while abroad is called SSH, a student housing organization in the Netherlands that offers housing for international students, most of whom are on exchange. The entire housing complex holds over 300 students. When I first arrived, it felt a bit scary. There are no communal spaces besides the kitchens, just rooms down a long corridor. Not exactly the … Continue reading Keuken 12 by Juliana Conover

Culture, Customs and Traditions – Adjusting by Laura Wintjen

Studying abroad isn’t always as glamorous as you’d expect. Things don’t just fall into place. People can be rude. People can be kind. Things will be tough, and you will be confused and sometimes you find it impossible to do ordinary things. Also, being the only American in my house of 12 Dutch roommates can be tough. Everyone is always watching what I do, what … Continue reading Culture, Customs and Traditions – Adjusting by Laura Wintjen

Heading to Groningen by Catherine Payne

Hello my name is Catherine Payne. I am a Double Major in Sociology and Anthropology with a Minor in Women’s and Gender Studies. I am in my 3rd year at CofC. This semester I am studying at the University of Groningen in Groningen, Netherlands. I chose this program because of the courses that the university offered. They offer a wide array of courses and the … Continue reading Heading to Groningen by Catherine Payne

Travel Opportunities Abroad by Lydia Klumb

One of the things that makes me most excited about my time abroad is the opportunities I have had to travel to so many different places. Travel within the EU is much easier (and cheaper) than in the US. I have been fortunate enough to go to 8 different countries, some multiple times, during just the short five months I have spent abroad, and plan … Continue reading Travel Opportunities Abroad by Lydia Klumb

An International Student’s Rules of the Road: Groningen Edition by Maggie Carpenter

The Netherlands: a country known for many things, namely its flat lands, canals, and BIKES. Groningen, located in the north of the country and the capital of Groningen province, is a bustling student city with multiple universities, a great night life, and all the charm of your typical Dutch city with plenty of international students as well. Most importantly, however, at an average 1.3 bikes … Continue reading An International Student’s Rules of the Road: Groningen Edition by Maggie Carpenter

Daily Life in Groningen and Culture Shock by Lydia Klumb

Moving to Europe for 6 months is no small feat. There are bags to pack, flights to catch, and living accommodations to secure. If all of that weren’t enough, a completely different country means different cultures and customs you aren’t used to. Personally, I was expecting much more of a culture shock than I experienced when moving to the Netherlands. For the most part, life … Continue reading Daily Life in Groningen and Culture Shock by Lydia Klumb

Intro by Lydia Klumb

Name: Lydia Klumb Majors: Psychology and Marine Biology Year in School: Sophomore Host Institution: University of Groningen in Groningen, Netherlands Why did you choose your program: I knew I wanted to go somewhere in Europe where I could travel easily, and wanted to push myself outside of my comfort zone by going to a country where English isn’t the official language. The Netherlands meets both … Continue reading Intro by Lydia Klumb