Nynke Tilkema, third-year student at University College Twente (UCT) is now studying at Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITesM) in Monterrey, Mexico and will share her story with us.
“Before my fifth semester I had never traveled outside Europe, let alone lived there. I thought this semester was the perfect opportunity to get in contact with a completely different culture. Moreover, I have always been fascinated with Latin America, and the University of Twente had a partnership with this university in Mexico.”
Nynke applied for ATLAS, because she liked everything. Choosing a specific bachelor would neglect the majority of her interests and UCT gave her the opportunity to work at the intersection of many disciplines. Currently, Nynke is interested in pursuing a master in neuroscience, because it is an interdisciplinary field on the intersection of social and natural sciences, and medicine.
“To gain more knowledge for the master I want to do, I am taking courses in molecular biology, enzymology and biocatalysis, and biotechnology of nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. I am also taking a sociology course and Spanish as a foreign language. Going to class here has made me realize how valuable it is that we learn how to cooperate with people from different disciplines in ATLAS. Even though there is a lot of project work at ITSEM, students have never had a course on teamwork and learn everything through trial and error. Other than that, the education system is similar; small classes, integrated projects and personal contact with teachers. However, the pressure to get good grades is very high and people do not have much intrinsic motivation to learn. In addition, you cannot question the teacher; critical thinking is not a part of the education here.”
Salsa dancing is a large part of Nynke’s social life. It allows for meeting a lot of new people outside the university bubble. The Mexican Independece Day was also a great experience: “We went to Guanajuato which is one of the most important places regarding Mexico’s independence. During the celebration, I really felt like a part of the community; shouting ‘viva Mexico’ and waving the Mexican flag.”
Studying in another country, at the other side of the world, gives you the opportunity to become very independent. You deal with loneliness, stress, obnoxious people that objectify you, and even having dinner by yourself, but that will only make you stronger: “Being in Mexico has definitely helped me grow. I have broadened my horizon and experienced a positive change. Above that, Mexico is a beautiful country full of cultural heritage and amazing places so I would recommend going here to everyone.”
University College Twente offers a unique bachelor’s programme, Technology, Liberal, Arts and Sciences, to top students. Visit the University College Twente website for more information about the college and Technology, Liberal, Arts and Sciences website for more information about the bachelor program. Or visit us during the open day, a student-for-a-day or an insight-day.
