A small delegation from the University of Twente visited the French Lycée in The Hague (Lycée Français Vincent van Gogh or LFVG) on 25/01/2025 to present the university, its programs, showcase French-speaking students' experiences as well as faculty perspectives about the Dutch higher education system and the University of Twente in particular, during their higher education forum. The UT team—consisting of Frédérik Sinan Bernard, post-doc and project manager of the MSCA DIGITAL FINANCE from IEBIS and two students (Alexis Decoux from B-ME and Vincent Nobel from B-AT) — offered firsthand insights into life and learning at one of the Netherlands’ leading applied research universities.
With an audience of curious high schoolers, concerned parents and cooperating education staff, the representatives from UT discussed the University of Twente’s distinctive approach to education, emphasizing its blend of technology, entrepreneurship, and collaboration. They also highlighted the advantages of studying in the Netherlands, including its diverse international community, project-based curriculum, and strong research culture.
“In the Netherlands, but particularly at the University of Twente, creative and real-life problem-solving, hands-on projects with the industry, and interdisciplinary thinking are particularly relevant” Dr. Bernard explained. “We wanted to share our various experiences of UT and show students the possibilities that await them if they choose to study at the University of Twente - the interest was real and many were curious to join for the campus visit days in March”
The discussions covered key aspects of the Dutch higher education framework, such as the bachelor’s structure, English-taught programs, scholarship opportunities and career building at UT. Students were particularly intrigued by the interactive and lively campus, the many entrepreneurial ventures supported by the university and overall the balanced yet realist approach to studies at UT.
“We’re very glad to host the University of Twente” said Valérie Balbinot Viale, education and orientation counselor from the LFVG . “Thanks to all the representatives present today, we can broaden our students’ perspectives and introduce them to a world of academic options beyond the traditional French routes, and helps provide them with a full view on Higher Education, while considering national options seriously.”
Alongside several Dutch and French higher education institutions, enthusiastic questions revolved around about admissions procedures, living arrangements in Enschede, tips for preparing for the university’s programs and the associative and lively campus. Both the Lycée staff and the visiting group hope this outreach will spark further collaboration, guiding more international students toward discovering the rich educational offerings in Twente and throughout the Netherlands.
This is the second outreach activity to a French speaking high school with Dr. Bernard, who had a dedicated online presentation at the Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle of Ankara, in Turkey – organized with the help of Mr. Gabriel Galand, philosophy teacher and student orientation counselor, in the framework of the higher education orientation days.
