CES Maastricht

My special and memorable experience abroad at Maastricht University has been greatly shaped by the support and care the Center of European Studies (CES) team has provided for us. The team went above and beyond in ensuring we were accompanied by help in every way possible, and in every step of the way. I felt comfortable in approaching all of the advisors as they made efforts to establish that friendly and warm relationship with us students since day 1. Our cohort all became very close and appreciated the every activity, event and trip that the CES team had so kindly organized for us. This has been an incredible experience, beyond anything we could’ve ever expected and imagined. The people we’ve met here in Maastricht will never be forgotten! Thank you to the CES team for being the wonderful people they are, and I couldn’t imagine going abroad through any other program :)

My program experience was great. The program was set up so that half of my classes were only with students from my home university -- relatively small classes with 6-8 others--- and the other half were regular classes at the local university (which was more immersive and I preferred those classes). We had scheduled weekend trips to visit other countries and local areas around the host country, which accounted for about 1/4 of the total weekends. My favorite experience was visiting the shops and doing interviews with the local students for my cultural awareness final project. I was able to meet really cool people, which led me to dinners with strangers, book recommendations, free drinks, great conversations, artworks, and lifelong friends.

From a very young age I've always enjoyed new experiences, and as I grew up I knew I wanted to go far for school. However, due to familial situations I decided to stay close to my family for my undergraduate experience. As my family situation calmed down, CES Maastricht allowed me the opportunity of a lifetime to go and live not just in the Netherlands, but in the province my family originates from. With CES Maastricht, every step of the process was easy and help was readily available from the application stage to arrival and travel whilst on the program. The CES Program also offered a wide variety of classes to help students immerse into the culture of both the city and the Netherlands. One of my favorite parts of this program was the built-in travel that took students to Berlin Germany, Paris France, and a trip around several Dutch cities. I cannot recommend CES enough to friends curious about Europe, and I truly think that it is a perfect fit for anyone; whether you're focused on cultural immersion like I was with the Netherlands, or if you're curious about Europe in a broader sense. I was able to travel so much of Europe and even get to Africa on this program, and the experiences I had were downright life-changing.

I did the CES program in Fall 2022. I was nervous because I was coming there all on my own but everyone, from the program administrators to the students, made me feel so welcome. I had the opportunity to immersive myself in the Dutch culture through the program, and travel to many neighboring cities and countries. I met some of my closest friends through this program and for that, I’ll always be grateful!

I studied abroad Spring 2024 in Maastricht, Netherlands. And I really did have the time of my life. Studying in Maastricht, I was very challenged with academics. UM’s problem based learning strategy encourages students to lead class discussions, take an active role in choosing what to focus on, and collaborate with other students. Maastricht’s location in the heart of Europe allowed me to travel to other European countries by train with ease, making weekend travel easy. CES’s group trips and orientation helped me make friends immediately, whom I cooked dinner with, traveled with, and studied with, and who I still keep up with. If you have one choice - study abroad at Maastricht through CES!!!

I went to Maastricht to study in the summer of 2024. At first, I almost knew nothing about this city and I chose Maastricht as my destination simply because my major is Dutch Studies. But after arriving and studying for a while, I realized that I had made a best choice in my life. The teacher there were very nice and I made a lot of international friends. We hung out together and talked about our countries. If I had the chance, I would choose to go to Maastricht again and again.

The Psychology and Neuroscience program stood out to me because I knew I wanted to study abroad in western Europe and Maastricht had a perfect central location and the tailored coursework fit seamlessly with my major at UC San Diego as a Cognitive Neuroscience student. I knew all the classes would transfer and be relevant for my career goals. I can't even a choose a favorite memory from study abroad! Was it biking with my friends across town, rain or shine? Hiking down to the scenic Howth cliffs or trying to blend in with the kids at the Miffy museum or celebrating Halloween at Thuis with Riya in our horrendously bad costume? My study abroad experience was definitely the highlight of my college career and I recommend everyone to step out of their comfort zone and immerse themselves in a new culture and lifestyle for a few months when anything is possible at our age!

Maastricht is a beautiful, historical, and very safe city which I very much enjoyed living in. The CES program administrators organized some great introductory activities on our first few days there, such as a guided city walking tour, a limestone cave tour, a boat ride, and a few other activities outside of the city. The Maastricht University classes I took were super interesting and the instructors were both great, but they were very work-intensive with long sessions (3-4 hours) so expect to spend your weekdays very busy. However, most students get Fridays off, so you will probably have a long weekend to make travel plans easier! Maastricht is in a very convenient location for travelling around Europe, so I suggest you spend most of your weekends taking advantage of this. My room at the UM Guesthouse was very nice, I had a private “kitchen” (sink, hotplate, and fridge) because I chose a room in the P building. I would highly recommend this, because I heard from people in the C building that their shared kitchens got pretty gross- though obviously that depends on who’s staying there. Overall, I had a great time in Maastricht, and I would definitely recommend the program!

Attending Maastricht University felt like a dream come true! Not only was the city of Maastricht such a safe, beautiful, and fun community, the classes I took truly expanded on the field of Psychology in ways I had not experienced before. The people I met—from staff, fellow students, and community members—were all so welcoming and engaging. This place truly became my home away from home, and opened doors to so many new opportunities. From walks along the river, day trips to the nearby zoo, and nights at the summer concerts, the memories and friends I made here are unforgettable!

Spending this summer at Maastricht was a truly unforgettable experience. Being in a small but bustling town in the middle of Europe is breath of fresh air. I loved getting to learn about Dutch culture and the rich history of Maastricht. However, my favorite part was the opportunity in meeting others from around the world. Learning from them and learning from knowledgable professors made this program worth it.

Living in Maastricht for 6 months proved to be a unique cultural immersive experience. A cozy Dutch university city, the opportunities for unique and local experiences were endless. In the end, I felt as though I truly did live in another country, and have come to call Maastricht my home away from home.

Maastricht is a perfect place to call home while you explore Europe! A cozy and approachable Dutch city in the heart of Europe, you will feel comfortable calling it your home after even a short while. The juxtaposition of the beautiful rolling Limburg hills against the medieval fortresses scattered throughout the city, with a large international student population, makes it a wonderful place to study abroad.

I had such a good experience in the Public Health and Medicine in Europe program at Maastricht. I mainly took psychology and genetics courses (plus a lab), and I really enjoyed how these classes were taught, especially at UCM. Through the pbl-style learning, I developed better independent study skills and was able to learn and engage with the content rather than memorize it for a test. One of my favorite parts of this program was also how I was able to learn with local students at UCM. Through group projects and our in-class discussions, I made some really good friends who not only helped me with my initial adjustment to the pbl-style, but also showed me around local spots in Maastricht. Additionally, the Berlin, Paris, and Dutch Day trips were so fun and culturally enriching. They had the perfect amount of structure and a good agenda while still offering a lot of free time and recommendations to explore the cities on your own with friends. Maastricht was the cutest city with such fun things to do, such as the market every Friday, and had some really good cafes/food places and bars. It was easy and affordable to travel from and filled with such kind people. I came back with such good lifetime friends, and miss Maastricht (and biking) every day.

The CES program is so incredible! The staff is so kind and supportive, and willing to help with whatever you need. The pre-arranged activites and trips were such great opportunties and my favorite part of the program. I was able to experience so many different cultures and learn from a new perspective. Maastricht is a wonderful city with a lovely community!

My experience abroad was life-changing. My classes at Maastricht University were engaging and captivating, I've made lifelong friends, and the small-city environment is very welcoming to outsiders. Not only do you get the cultural immersion without too much tourism, but you are welcomed with open arms into the community.

In Maastricht, I met some of my closest friends and made some of my favorite memories without sacrificing my studies.I was able to travel to 8 different countries without falling behind on my schoolwork. I was so excited to find a program that had the classes I wanted to take in the summer, but I didn't think I was going to be able to travel and have as much fun as I did. Some of my favorite memories from Maastricht involve sitting in the park with my friends doing homework und chatting and laughing. I would totally recommend a summer in Maastricht b anyone who wants to both expand their studies and experience Europe in its entirety.

1. In this program, I not only took part in interesting but thought-provoking lessons, but also visited many places of interest as well as other cities and even countries. Besides my Dutch skill is promoted, which is very important for me since my major is Dutch language and culture. 2. The staff here are all very kind and friendly, especially the coordinator. I sent them emails when I encountered problems, and they always responded to me very quickly and offered me kind and helpful advice. 3. This is the first time for me to fully understand how to live by myself. Apart from that, I’ve made a lot of foreign friends in the university as well as in shops and bars. I will definitely encourage more students to go to Maastricht, and I am really happy with this experience!

It is a life-changing experience both physically and mentally. CES staff are really extraordinarily perfect. You can feel their concerns and care before, during and after the program. A thousand Thank you;) At first I was a bit hesitant to start a conversation with people I didn’t know about, but after taking the first step I just realized how kind they are. Adapting is also a journey of self discovery. From Maastricht, reach out the world!!!

I completed a summer program in Maastricht and while it was short, it was the best three weeks of my college career. I fell in love with the city of Maastricht, the culture, and the community I built during my program. I got to spend the three weeks learning about leadership from company visits, field trips, and locals. I spent time exploring nearby cities and countries too such as Germany, France, Switzerland, and Belgium. The balance between travel and academics was manageable due to the willingness of everyone to support and help us out. The entire staff at CES was so welcoming and caring to our group and I can say I would be the first person to recommend the program to any students who want to attend. Anyone who is looking to travel abroad and get a feel for Dutch learning styles, and cultures Maastricht University is for you.

Going on fields trips and studying politics and law from an international viewpoint has helped me broaden my perspective. I had a great time visiting the institutions of the European Union because it helped me get a hands-on experience!

The vineyard, the bikes, the snow, the new friends that you still talk to 4 months after, the beauty of Maastricht, the Treaty on Function of the European Union, the things that make you wish 3 weeks weren't so quick. For me, it was the most memorable experience, and I would do it again and again if given the chance!

Integrating into European economics through the lens of your travel times in Maastricht creates a whole different perspective. Understanding new ways of understanding issues through PBL and translating that your “built in” American culture is second to none. Amy has been the most helpful person in my transition here. Messaging her at 10pm to the countless emails back and forth proves they truly care about your experience here. Pushing myself to areas that I didn’t know I had through my experience by seeing almost every country that Europe has to offer. Going to the places that most people wouldn’t think of show the pure beauty that society has to offer.

Hello I’m Iellene from UC Merced and I decided to do CES this summer 2023. The courses I am taking is law and politics then European public health. The most interaction I’ve had is with Susan who was the most helpful person throughout my process. She allowed me to change my course and helped me with my early arrival to buy a train ticket. Before arriving to abroad I thought it would be hard and scary to be away from home but by the end of the trip you meet new friends who become like your family and Maastricht your home away from home. Very grateful to have gotten this opportunity.

Maastricht summer program has been an incredible discovery into new and different cultures. It’s an absolute unforgettable experience that I will hold fond memories of for the rest of my life. The CES staff have absolutely changed my perception of what learning can be like. I’m so grateful to have met such kind, understanding individuals. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have studied abroad this summer it was the best decision I have ever made. It has opened up a whole world of possibilities for me I can’t wait to get back here.

The psychology classes I took were an amazing experience. The classes had there easy and hard days/tasks but overall I learned so much. The staff members are there for you and for your success through your time abroad. It’s was nice knowing they are always available no matter the issue. My overall abroad adventure felt like a dream come true. I always wanted to travel since I was little and this program gave me that opportunity! Definitely an unforgettable abroad experience!

The marketing class I took through the CES courses available was a super interactive and helpful class to take. The professor was super awesome and really personable, and the course was super easy to follow along with. All the staff members are very approachable and if they aren’t able to help you with something, they will send you to someone who can help you. Some CES staff members are better than others, but they are all easily accessible and will do what they can for you. My experience has been a dream come true and has opened my eyes so much more to the world around me. Although I feel like an ignorant American at times, it has been so much fun meeting people from all over the world and making connections with so many new people that will last me a lifetime.

The pulic health program in Maastricht is very well organized and very educational. CES does an amazing job coordinating appropriate material and activities to enhance your learning experience in your program. The CES staff is amazing. They offer you with complete support and help guide you efficiently through any issues you may have while abroad. They make it truly feel like a comfortable and supportive community. My study abroad experience was transformative. I learned more about myself than I thought possible and grew tremendously as an individual through traveling and experiencing different cultures.

Psychology and Neuroscience in Maastricht offers a wide variety of courses that are available to fit your degree needs or interests! I took a positive psychology class with CES here in Maastricht which actually ended up being one of my favorite classes I’ve ever taken — I learned so much and felt like I walked away with lots of applicable skills and knowledge. The CES staff is amazing; they are always available for any questions or issues you might have, related to your classes, travel, or any other issues you might be having while abroad. Also, they plan amazing trips and events for us to go on as a program with lots of included things to do which are always so fun. My study abroad experience has been amazing, with a bunch of wonderful new friends that I’ve met, beautiful travel destinations, and lots of experiences for me to grow as an individual and as a student. Balancing school, travel, and social activities at the same time can be difficult at times, but it is more than worth it in the end and will give you so many of the best memories of your life.

The Public Health program at CES has fast-tracked my courses at my home university. I am able to study within my major in high detail and talk about international perspectives with those who know it best.The CES staff have been so supportive and helpful throughout the entire program! They are always there to advise, guide, and even talk about anything that’s on your mind. My study abroad experience has been nothing short of a life changer. I have been able to see the world, talk to new people, and experience personal growth and independence.

The Psych and Neuro program provides a wide range of classes, from learning about our development to regulating your emotions. The classes allow for engagement with students from various cultural and academic backgrounds, fostering long-term relationships. A large part of CES is the coordinators! Through their guidance and empathy they give a whole new meaning to the saying “a home away from home”. Study abroad has changed my life, from friendships, experiences, and networks. I cannot wait to be back again very soon!

I feel passionate about the class material. The topics discussed raise my curiosity about further research opportunities I could pursue. The staff members are so welcoming and filled with high spirits. I always feel seen, heard and cared for. I feel free to follow my heart desires and extend my focus towards the things I personally enjoy. Touring Europe has been an added plus and I feel I am on a path towards great success.

Hoi hoi! I am majoring in Data Science focusing on entrepreneurs, organizations and society. In Maastricht I am currently studying Business and Economics in Europe program with Datamining, Data Analytics at UCM and Marketing and Economics of Integration at CES. CES staffs are so nice and attentively assistive. I miss my program coordinator, Laura, who helped me a lot at first in choosing courses and her attentive assistance in how to prepare for my study abroad. My studying abroad so far is more than wonderful and fulfilled with joy and happiness. Not only do I get to know more friends from different universities but I also explore more picturesque views in the Netherlands.

Politics, Law and International Relations in Europe is an academically rigorous program that introduces concepts from a European perspective. The combination of problem-based learning tutorials, field trips, and interesting lectures allow for students to get a unique grasp on politics and law from an international viewpoint. The CES staff is an approachable and hardworking group dedicated to helping all students with whatever problem arises while abroad. They work effortlessly to ensure students are able to succeed while studying at Maastricht, and their passion to help students in the program is very apparent. My study abroad experience has allowed me to grow and gain an international perspective I would not have received otherwise. Coming from a country where I feel like I’m in a bubble and know very little about other cultures, this program was able to not only educate me in the classroom, but outside of it as well.

Digital Society is a programe that helps you expand your vision about today’s digital world. It provides a perspective on how digital technology has shaped and changed our lifestyle. The CES staff is amazing and so fun. They will help you with whatever you need while studying in Maastricht I have learned a lot from my experience, it has help me meet a lot of friends and has definitely been a challenge for me.

I had a great time studying abroad at Maastricht University through CES. I was able to take fun and informative field trips to Berlin, Amsterdam, and Paris. CES faculty and courses were very supportive of our learning, and wanted to make sure that we were able to succeed in Maastricht. Maastricht itself was a very safe environment, with plenty of activities and fun shops to explore. Lastly, I was able to explore neuroscience research at Maastricht University, and expand my knowledge of neuroscience with neuroimaging techniques.

It was a great experience abroad! CES arranged several group trips, including a Berlin trip, Paris trip, and a Dutch cultural day trip, which were very fun and convenient (you don't have to plan at all, just show up!). They did a great job communicating with us throughout the semester with information regarding day-to-day living, classes, and just in general helpful information. Maastricht is a very quaint city as well, and it's extremely easy to travel all over Europe for relatively cheap, due to the central location. Nightlife is very fun as well, and it is a largely student-populated city, so there's always something to do. I highly recommend traveling as much as possible on this program, but be sure to spend a couple weekends in Maastricht and explore the local scene, which is deceptively fun. All in all, it was an unforgettable experience.

As an art history student with a particular interest in the Dutch Old Masters, having the ability to study Dutch Art in the Netherlands was a dream come true! CES Maastricht provided a course dedicated to Dutch Art History, specifically, which was my favorite class I took while abroad. Field trips and hands-on learning locally around Maastricht and to museums around the country brought the learning to life and created a greater sense of connection and appreciation to the culture and country I was studying in. Studying Dutch Art in its original context was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that not only deepened my love for my area of study, but also made me feel much more at home and connected to the Maastricht community!

I had such a wonderful experience studying in Maastricht! The professors were so kind and helpful. And I loved getting to explore and learn about the Netherlands. Maastricht is also ideally located for easy travel to other cities around Europe. I was able to visit several other countries during my time there and made amazing memories from all my travels!

Traveling to the Netherlands was a wonderful experience. I made amazing friends with whom I still keep in touch and made more memories than I can count. I don't think that having fun studying abroad is a given, however. Being away from home can be hard. It can feel isolating as you're separated from everything and everyone you know and flourishing in that type of environment takes courage. I'm glad that I pushed myself to hang out with strangers and form bonds in the first couple of months so I felt grounded. After I made friends and socialized I began to travel to a different country every weekend for the last two months. I did most of my traveling solo because that's something I've always wanted to do, but I don't think traveling alone is for everyone. What I'm trying to say is that each person will thrive in a different environment and find out what they like and don't like through experience. Push yourself out of your comfort zone and take advantage of this opportunity and you'll find your own balance.

I had such a great experience studying online with Elke. It was such a beautifully constructed, engaging course that really did utilise an awesome method of study that was mainly based around collaboration and discussion. I could not recommend this course more!

Even with Covid restrictions my study abroad experience was beyond my hopes and expectations for this kind of experience! I truly believe that I have left my study abroad exchange a changed person, Maastricht is an amazing city to live and learn in. The Netherlands in general is so diverse with different cultures and you meet so many students through Maastricht University who open your eyes to different views and ways of thinking. Classes are so interesting because everyone is from a different background or culture, and the classes themselves are very interactive and discussion-based at SBE, so hearing everyone's thoughts is very intriguing. I think CES throws an amazing study abroad experience that is great for learning about the Netherlands with day trips to different cities; like a trip to Zaandam to visit the Zaanse Schans area where you see how the Dutch lived hundreds of years ago, a trip to Eindhoven to check out the city's attractions, touring the caves by Maastricht. You also get to travel to cities like Paris for the weekend, and although our trip was canceled because of Covid the program also takes students to Berlin before classes in the fall. I just can't say enough about how much I loved this program and experience; everyone from the advisors for the program, the classes, the friendships I made, the cities I traveled to across Europe, and the memories I made I will cherish for a lifetime. You won't regret coming to Maastricht!

The Positive Psychology unit was incredibly insightful and important. I feel it's a unit everyone should undertake because it's one that has the potential to make life so much better. The learnings go far beyond academic, they're important for anyone wanting to feel better, have more purposeful goals and feel enriched and empowered to improve their mental health. I feel incredibly lucky to have been part of this course and have used many of the learnings in my personal and professional life already. Positive psychology is a powerful and real science that has the capacity to truly enhance happiness. I had no idea just how important this unit was going to be for me and my family.

Deciding to go abroad was the best decision I have made in my life. Exploring different countries and cultures has been such an eye-opening experience; it really makes you feel how big the world truly is. The program's schedule has been very accommodating to my thirst for travel, yet the classes are still academically fulfilling. Maastricht itself is a very clean, diverse, and friendly city; it's also close to Belgium and Germany making travel easy. I like that I can also feel safe enough to walk alone at night even if leaving a bar past 2am. If you're someone whose looking to travel and study around Europe, I would definitely recommend CES Maastricht.

Maastricht is the perfect location to study abroad in. So many destinations are accessible by bus/train and there are multiple options for airports to fly out of. Because Maastricht is a smaller, student-centered city, it doesn’t take long to feel at home there! The problem-based learning (PBL) method used at Maastricht University involves fewer hours in class, which allows for a more flexible travel schedule. Student-directed discussions foster more curiosity than traditional lectures, and explaining concepts to my classmates ensures my own understanding and retention. I was only supposed to be abroad for one semester, but I decided to extend my time and finish my degree here. I am also strongly considering graduate programs in the US that use PBL.

Expectations beforehand: I did not have many expectations going into the program. I was not even sure if I was going to get approval from my home university to study abroad. Once I got approval, I was still not sure if Covid would keep me in Maastricht or if I would have the opportunity to explore other places too. My semester turned out better than I could have imagined. I enjoyed my classes, met so many amazing people, and traveled a lot. I loved Maastricht and I do not think the semester could have gone any better. What was it like to study abroad in Maastricht: Maastricht is a great city. It is not a very big city which makes it feel comfortable and a good place to return to after a weekend trip. Still, it is big enough to have everything you would want in a city. There were lots of good restaurants, bars, theaters, churches, and shops. By the time I left, I felt like I had a great understanding of the city and how it is laid out. Still, I think I could go back and find places that I did not have enough time to visit. Maastricht is also a very international city. I met people from all over the world. Even the hall I stayed in was very diverse. I loved hearing people’s stories and trying new foods. How has this experience changed you: My study abroad allowed me to grow a lot more than I was expecting. I became much more confident in my abilities. I became comfortable traveling to new places and experiencing completely new things, even by myself. I also learned a lot about Dutch history and culture. I do not think you would ever be able to get the same experience just by visiting for a little while.

With times of struggles, this was the first semester reopened for study abroad and the team of leaders/ organizers for Maastricht abroad program out did themselves. They gave us step by step instructions for everything we would need to do throughout the semester to ensure a safe stay. I am so grateful I had the opportunity to study abroad in Maastricht. I also appreciated the scheduled events and trips included within the abroad program. Having group dinners with new friends, and heading to different countries along the way will be some of my best memories.

Studying abroad at CES Maastricht was one of the best choices of my undergraduate career. From the CES staff to the friends I made from around the world, one of the most memorable parts about my summer in Maastricht was by far the relationships I formed. I not only became closer to my classmates from my home university, but also made many friends from Shanghai, China who I still enjoy hearing from even now! My two courses - Transatlantic Investments and the Western Europe Study Tour were some of the most engaging and relevant classes I have taken. My favorite by far had to be the Western European Study Tour. During our time on the tour, we had the chance to visit five countries, touring landmarks and businesses along the way to learn more about Europe's economic ecosystem and the role of government/regulation in their notable success. With Brexit talks happening during our time abroad this course made the implications of any impending decisions incredibly tangible, thus allowing our class to further understand what was typically a rather confusing political conversation. During my time in Maastricht, I also learned a great deal about being independent, specifically as it relates to becoming a better traveler. Maastricht's location is ideal for any student looking to see as much of Europe as possible during their time abroad. Being so close to both Belgium and Germany provides students the unparalleled opportunity to interact with many cultures and histories, thus creating the opportunity for unforgettable experiences on any given day. I loved my time at CES Maastricht and wish I could return!

My semester in Maastricht was my best semester of my life. The staff were all very helpful and answered all my questions before I arrived and during my time there. They were always willing to help which is great when entering a new country. The classes were also top notch and interesting. Just be aware that the used problem based learning for their class sessions (which I enjoyed). One nice aspect of the program is they take you on several trips in Europe which is included in your fees. Some classes also have built in trips (location depends on class). The location of the university is a plus since it is close to Germany and Belgium allowing for easy travel. I would recommend any student to spend a semester in Maastricht.

If you want to study abroad in a beautiful place with the most amazing people, Maastricht should be your university of choice. The CES staff are so supportive and always willing to help. The Guesthouse is clean, safe, and provides a great source of community. The city is beautiful and so fun to explore. During my time at Maastricht, I took a class about transatlantic trade and learned so much about foreign direct investment and the intersections of the EU and business. I can’t recommend this program enough!

This programme exceeded all of my expectations and I couldn’t recommend it highly enough. Despite the cold that I’ve never felt before back home in Australia, the city itself felt like home away from homde. I met the most incredible people, both inside and outside of my programme. I experienced many things; amazing food, cold park walks and deep connections with many people. I’ve made long life friends and learnt many things about the history of Maastricht, my course (Positive Psychology) in myself. This is a programme that will change your life and a part of your life you’ll look back on and cherish forever.

Being my first overseas trip, I couldn't of imagined a more perfect location to begin my travels in than Maastricht, The Netherlands. Upon arrival, I found myself in awe of the beauty of the old buildings and cobblestone streets, and the refreshing chill in the air. The people were all so friendly, and helpful to say the least! Positive Psychology is something that is not heavily covered in Australia, so to learn such a thing in another country is a whole new experience. I was able to tiny amount of Dutch, and only wish I was there for longer! The three weeks fly by so quickly, with the weekend trips and due dates to think about. If anyone asked me whether I would recommend them to undertake an overseas study program, even a short one like this summer school program, I would say yes! Go out there and see the world, take in the sights, learn about Maastricht and eat all the Vlaai you can (something you won't know until you go on this trip).

This was a once in a lifetime experience and I loved being able to come. I learned so much and got to travel all over Europe in the process. I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking to explore European culture and history. Maastricht is also the perfect location because it is quaint and friendly. It is also located near Germany and Belgium, which are just a 30 min train ride away.

Deciding to study in Maastricht was the best decision I have made yet. As a senior studying abroad, I didn’t have a lot of flexibility in terms of where to go and which classes to take but I have absolutely no regrets and the classes that I took in Maastricht were more rewarding than any others that I took during my four years in university. From the studying experience itself, to the adventures I had, and the amazing people I met, Maastricht is the most special little city and I cannot wait to return one day. One year has gone by and everyday I miss riding my aqua blue bike to class, doing my shopping at Jumbo and getting a glass of wine and charcuterie at Dekaas Bar. #MissingMaastrichtMonday

The classes at Maastricht SBE are challenging but engaging. I have to actually prepare for class and it has made me a better student. The CES staff is super friendly and helpful whenever I had a problem. They were always there with an answer and a stroopwafel! I’ve grown and made more new friends studying abroad than I could have even imagined. It’s an intense experience but you just have to jump into it and you'll love it.

I really appreciated the fact that there were so many options when it came to the international relations classes! The CES advisors were incredibly helpful in finding classes that not only fulfilled my home university credit requirements but also aligned with my academic interests. If I could do it all over again, I wouldn't change a thing about my study abroad experience here at Maastricht University.

I chose to study in Maastricht for several reasons: it was a great location to travel from, instruction is in English and the classes were perfect for my degree and interests. Upon acceptance into the program you are immediately contacted by caring faculty who help you craft the program that fits you best. From admittance into the University until your final days in Maastricht, the CES Maastricht staff take care of you as if they have known you for years! I highly suggest spending a semester in Maastricht the CES staff who skillfully provide a program that provides: fun events throughout the semester, travel opportunities, and guidance throughout your whole exchange journey. Within CES Maastricht, I studies within the SBE (School of Business and Economics). Within this program, I took my favorite university courses thus far such as Behavioral Economics and Social & Environmental Entrepreneurship! Very tough, work-heavy courses but they are very rewarding at the end. In addition to friendly, helpful staff I met very great and ambitious people that I traveled with countless times! I will never forget the people or the memories that I created with the opportunities provided by this program!

I have learned how to problem solve better and think more critically about the world around me. I have explored more career paths and possibilities through my classes. The CES staff offers a lot of advice and sources for navigating life in Maastricht. They made me feel welcome and helped me adjust to a new culture and country. I have gotten the chance to travel and study in places I would’ve never imagined. I was exposed to many cultures and experiences that I wouldn’t have been exposed to back home.

From the moment we arrived, we were warmly greeted and always welcomed as any other student. The housing was typical student housing, but you spend barely any time in your room to warrant that being a concern. I made so many lifelong friends and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to study abroad. The education was second to none, with knowledgable and passionate teachers leading the way, there was no excuse for us to have anything but an overwhelmingly excellent time. The centre for European studies provided us with all of the emotional support we could have required and then some. Always checking in to ensure we weren't too homesick. This experience helped me to flourish emotionally, professionally, academically and socially. Love, love, love.

Studying with other students from different regions of the world, I have the opportunity to learn about different cultures, histories, and institutions and often from different perspectives simultaneously. Not too stressful, the CES program offers a good balance between freedom, fun, and knowledge. CES staff introduce you well into the city, institution, and program in your first few days or first week, then really just let you take off and do your own thing. Of course, they are almost always available if needed. Studying abroad really pushed me to be more independent and take things into my own hands. I learned how to enjoy myself but also how to take life "by the horns".

I had an amazing experience studying at Maastricht University for its CES Program. The CES program offered me opportunities interacting with students and professors from their diverse backgrounds. Global perspective taking is also the program dedicated. The CES staff are kind and always available to students whenever they need help. At the same time, the staff are the great resource to reach. Studying abroad in MU allows me to be more open-minded. I was able to travel to Belgium, Germany and other parts of the Netherlands with school's field trips as well as the weekend trips. At the same time, I had made friends from diverse backgrounds which I am really appreciated. I would definitely recommend this program to​ people who are interested in studying abroad in Europe!

The CES programme I attended was both intellectually stimulating and mind-opening. It allowed me to deepen my knowledge on a subject I really wanted to dig into, as well as meet students from many different backgrounds and horizons. The CES staff I encountered were open, warm-hearted people that always smiled and patiently answered my questions, however dumb they were. I really wish I didn’t have to come back three times to their office to bother them about petty issues like credits transfer. Studying is Maastricht was a nice way of continuing my studying abroad experience, albeit in a country where I didn't understand the language. It allowed me to discover a new place with people from abroad also willing to discover it and share this experience all together.

Studying with other students from different regions of the world, I had the opportunity to learn about different cultures, histories, and institutions and often from different perspectives simultaneously. Not too stressful, the CES program offers a good balance between freedom, fun, and knowledge. CES staff introduce you well into the city, institution, and program in your first few days or first week, then really just let you take off and do your own thing. Of course, they are almost always available if needed. Studying abroad really pushed me to be more independent and take things into my own hands. I learned how to enjoy myself but also how to make the most of everything and take life "by the horns".

Study abroad has been amazing so far. I've been able to travel, take challenging courses, and also join volunteer projects in my free time. This block, I took a course on EU law and politics and learned about the history of the EU; additionally, I took a course of public policy evaluation. I enjoyed both classes, because I was able to engage with Dutch and German students through my tutorial by doing group projects and presentations, which enabled me to learn about Europe on a whole new level. The CES staff is incredibly friendly and helpful. My advisor has continued to help me find classes I am interested in, and other staff members have helped give me advice on things to do, places to visit, and more.

My academic experience has taught me how to engage in hands-on, discussion-based learning rather than solely lecture-based coursework. Through program courses, you are able to delve deeper into your theme while being surrounded by fellow CES students. The CES staff helps organize the study abroad experience by providing resources to help adjust to life in Maastricht as well as social and academic support. Through simple reminders and guidance, they provide a support system similar to that I have found at my home university. Studying abroad in Maastricht taught me a lot about myself, that I can adapt to different situations well and that I am more independent than I give myself credit for. Through balancing study abroad life i.e. travel, with academics and social aspects, I have grown and become more worldly.

The number of exchange students in Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience is a small and intimate group, which makes it feel like all your academic concerns are addressed. The courses are very different from traditional lectures because they require self-initiative and are completely discussion based. The CES staff have been incredibly helpful from finding me a local chiropractor, to giving travel suggestions, academic guidance, and tips on stress relief. You realize how lucky CES students are to have the resources, cultural trips, guidance, and community they provide— especially when you compare yourself to other exchange students. Studying abroad has made me more globally mindful, open to uncertainty, and conscious of how fortunate I am to have experienced like these. I’ve gained a huge boost in independence and have learned to make the most of every moment and adventure!

My academic program allows your mind to open up and discuss wordily topics and learn more about the world in whole. The professors are helpful and wonderful and want you to grow your knowledge also PBL is such fun and makes it easy to discuss. My academic program has allowed me to understand the world much more while discussing controversial topics. It has led me to understand that most of the world has the same issues they are trying to face but we need people to step up and take initiative to help solve these issues. The CES staff is a fun and engaging staff that want to make your time here at Maastricht the best time possible. They are like the protectors of you and help you to succeed here. Study abroad is an eye-opening experience that allows you to understand that the world is such a small place with people who have good hearts. Studying abroad has allowed me to find beauty in everyday things and allow myself to take one day at a time and enjoy every second of it because your time here is so short.

My academic scene is unique from that at home; it consists of a more open and conversational environment being led by fellow classmates. Discussion is part of the learning process and to be involved you must have your work done prior. The CES staff is involved in my academics and my life here in Maastricht, keeping me on top of what needs to get done while also making each step of the way as easy as possible. I feel comfortable with all staff and can rely on them for nearly anything. Thus far, my travel abroad experience has been filled with new friendships, open environment, and cultural experiences all across Europe. Each day brings on new opportunities to grow independence, and improve on self-knowledge as well as keeping myself accountable for maintaining relationships and my own academic learning.

Classes are discussion based, which really encourages healthy debates and exchanging different ideas. The workload is heavy at times but very manageable and, in my opinion, interesting. The CES staff is a great resource throughout the semester; they are all so helpful and supportive, and plan super fun events for the program. It is clear that they genuinely care that all of their students have an amazing experience in Maastricht. Study abroad has been challenging, but being away from home and getting to experience a new culture so intimately allows for personal growth that I don’t think I would have experienced otherwise. I have made such amazing friends here and, as cliche as it all sounds, really learned so much more about who I am and taking care of myself.

This really was an amazing experience that I have zero regrets about. Once you arrive in the Netherlands, it instantly becomes a place you call home. I will definitely return back periodically and hope that the program continues to grow and get to provide many more students this phenomenal opportunity!

The course itself was thorough and engaging, the study tours aligned perfectly with a balance of educational and recreational. I felt more engaged and willing to participate in-class here than back home at university and my knowledge taken away from the program reflects this. We were assessed by two in-class tests and a final paper on a topic of our own choosing which was well received by the whole class

During my academic program, I learned how to think, study, and interact in new ways with fellow students through discussion, research, and debate. The CES staff are helpful, and accommodating. They make the program fun and engaging. My experience abroad has been an eye-opening global adventure. Due to the though-provoking courses and travel, I truly have grown as a person and now I know much more about myself and my priorities because of this experience.

Studying abroad at the School of Business and Economics allows me experience of a different teaching system and structure. Though it seemed daunting at first, it definitely opened up my mind to new ways of learning. The CES team is very welcoming, outgoing, and most importantly, helpful. Beyond just academic needs, they also go the extra mile to connect with me on a personal level to give me the best study abroad experience. Having the opportunity to be adventurous in between classes and getting an insight into various different cultures around Europe is definitely the highlight of my study abroad experience.

The Politics, Law, and International Relations courses that I took at CES allowed me the opportunity to be instructed by professors that are experienced in their field, passionate about stimulating debate, and encouraging student participation. Additionally, I was acquainted with the European perspective on the topics that I am passionate about such as human rights, and international law. The CES staff were incredibly helpful and kind during my time in Maastricht. I felt like they were a helping hand if I needed one, but at the same time allowed me the independence to discover Maastricht on my own. My study abroad experience was much more enriching, and challenging than I originally set my expectations for going in. Not only was I able to travel as much as I wanted, I was surrounded by a community, both academically and personally, that cared about my success and development as a person.

Coming to Maastricht, I had no idea what to expect. I travel a lot with my family but I had never been to the Netherlands. Maastricht is a beautiful city that, in my opinion, appeals to everyone. It has a nice city vibe but is also not as intense as larger cities. When we first got here, the CES staff was so helpful, we had tours of the city and of places we may need to go to get things that we needed. They even help you with navigating the transportation system in case you wanted to explore other European cities. I took a leadership and management class, and our academic programme was very enlightening and engaging. We discuss with our professor and our peers about various management and leadership topics in class that genuinely changed my view of leadership for the better. My experience was truly an amazing one!

This academic program was a life changing experience because it has opened new friends who challenged he way i thought about many political topics. it was also wonderful because it allowed me to have time and support to find the pathway i wanted to take inline, and now i am applying to law school in fall. CES staff was incredible because they were always willing to help, whether that be answering many of my Facebook messages to help me get around! I would not rate this experience for the world; it has not only changed my outlook on issues I care most about but it has allowed me to come into contact with people, who are now lifelong friends, that challenge me to think greater and be better. Traveling on the weekends opened up my world as well because immersing myself into the cultures of other countries has allowed me to look back at my country and want to make it a greater place.

I had an amazing summer in Maastricht!! Not only did I fulfill my travel dreams, but I learned so much and made great friends. My academic programme gave me the unique opportunity to learn about the EU and its people, while sitting in class alongside EU citizens as fellow students. I felt truly immersed in the material and learned so much more than I could have in an American University about the topics I studied. The CES staff has been so kind, friendly, and welcoming. Any question of help I needed was easy to obtain! I have truly felt valued as a student here during my time in Maastricht. Studying in Maastricht has made me feel totally immersed in my experience abroad, especially while studying the European Union amongst EU citizens. It has been an amazing experience to not only travel throughout Europe this summer, but be able to return to Maastricht as a home base. Great place not only to travel from, but to live.

You gain an international understanding of things that would only be touched on at home, even in such a short time. My professors were knowledgeable on the subjects and thoroughly enjoyed teaching-which has made learning so much fun. Getting in contact with the CES staff was always easy and helpful when questions arose and my home university was unable to answer. They genuinely care about your well being while you're here, and it's a good feeling having people watch out for you while you're thousands miles from home. The best thing about my study abroad experience was developing friendships that helped me become a better me in such a short amount of time. I'll forever be grateful for the people I met and the experience I was able to have in Maastricht.

The academic program at Maastricht University is a great one that cultivates independence and creative ideas. It provides a new learning style that really makes you a better all-around student. The CES staff are extremely open, friendly, and knowledgable. They are here to make the experience as problem-free and enjoyable as possible. Study abroad allows you to make amazing friendships and experience the world in a brand new way. It is the most rewarding experience I’ve ever had.

My experience at Maastricht was a challenging and emotional experience. I learned about the world, how different political and economic institutions interact with one another, and about the people of these places live their lives on a historical and modern level. The CES staff were an awesome group of people who challenged us to leave our own cultural ideas behind to embrace a new culture. They were challenging and demanding; in the end I became a better student, thinker, and citizen because of it. The best part of my study abroad experience was learning about the people who live in these places, and how they interact with the world. It is easy to disregard the stories of everyday people learning about their history, seeing how they lived their lives through pictures, and watching people everyday made this experience one I will never forget.

Studying abroad at Maastricht university gives you the chance to experience a totally new way of learning. Not only do you get to experience problem-based learning and how that can affect and benefit your learning in the future, you get to interact and discuss specific topics with people from around the world. International input and opinions of people from cultures other than your own is an extremely beneficial and enlightening way to learn. To return home with these skills is an unbelievable experience. Studying abroad allows you the freedom to experience the world in completely different ways and forge international friendships. Exposure and contact to various people, cultures, and learning/communication styles ultimately makes you a better student, person, and global citizen. The CES staff is the most welcoming, friendly, helpful staff that I have encountered in an academic setting. I came into this program feeling a little overwhelmed, and within the first two days I felt right at home, and I knew that if there was anything I needed, CES would help me find it. I think that overall, the experience of studying abroad has made me a more independent, confident person, and has allowed me to build incredible friendships with people I probably never would have met otherwise. I feel like this experience allowed me to embrace myself and my love for travel, and gave me the confidence to continue traveling and exploring the world in the future.

Although nervous at first to move to a relatively unknown study abroad location, I cannot imagine my life without Maastricht and the positive experiences I have had. My classes, program leaders and overall experience can hardly be put into words, but my general thoughts are condensed below :) In my classes through Maastricht University's School of Business and Economics, learning is emphasized through small, fifteen student seminars with a rigorous schedule of case studies and interactive sessions in order to simulate real-life applications of business. This is incredibly beneficial due to its ability to teach valuable skills such as collaborating within a diverse group setting, and also provide an environment where you learn from your peers. The CES staff is truly there to make you feel comfortable, happy, and enjoy your time in the Netherlands; without them I would feel lost! They incorporate a variety of events and opportunities to get to know your peers, and they are always available if you have a question, concern, or simply want to chat! My experience abroad has taught me an incredible amount about myself and the world I live in. It has shaped my positive view on a multitude of cultures and has helped me discover unique friendships with students of varying nationalities– friendships I cannot image my life without.

Choosing to study abroad in Maastricht was a fantastic decision! I had never been to Europe before, but craving a small European town with travel opportunities has been amazing. The town itself offers so much from markets, to social events, to theater performances, and even the surrounding areas allow for endless exploration. The CES staff has been phenomenal; I couldn't ask for anything better! Everyone is super friendly, approachable, and wanting to help you have the best experience possible. They organize group trips and events gathering the group together every so often while also being in the office to help with academics, travel, or general life help. The CES staff has generating a family environment that has made studying abroad a seamless transition. School at Maastricht is a lot different with the PBL style courses. It was an adjustment at first, but as long as you put the time and effort in before hand then it is reasonable to adjust. The classmates are are very nice and the collaborative setting is something unique compared to my home university. Maastricht now holds a special place in my heart thanks to the CES program and staff making abroad and traveling Europe unforgettable!

My courses in the School of Business and Economics at Maastricht have challenged me academically and intellectually and have allowed for incredible growth in both areas. They've provided me with a different perspective and amazing opportunities that I wouldn't have from any other university. The CES staff is one of the best aspects of the program! They work so hard to make sure students feel comfortable and happy both in the classroom and beyond it. I've learned more about the world and its people than I ever could have in the US. Part of this learning I attribute to Maastricht University and the other part I attribute to exploring and getting to know Europe.

Studying with CES at Maastricht University was the most incredible four months of my life. The CES staff made the transition to living and studying in Maastricht nearly seamless through communication before my arrival as well as tours and information sessions while I was there. Their concern for my safety and 24/7 emergency availability made me feel at east both in Maastricht and traveling around Europe. As a participant of the European History, Culture and Arts program, I spent part of my semester studying Dutch literature and art. Inside the classroom, I participated in rich discussions with my fellow study abroad peers, while outside the classroom we went on study tours to new cities where we were able to visit the location of a novel we had read or see a painting we had studied. I was also able to take classes in my major at the Faculty of Arts & Social Science with peers from around the world, where I was challenged to think about contemporary social issues from a global perspective and reflect on my own American culture. Outside of academics, Maastricht was a great city to live in and truly feel a part of the community. From grocery shopping to eating frites, or going out on the weekends, I always had a fun time and felt immersed in the culture. Maastricht's central location also allowed for easy travel, which took me to places I had only ever dreamed of. Overall, my study abroad experience with CES at Maastricht University was absolutely ideal and I wish I could repeat it over and over again.

I am so fortunate I found myself at CES Maastricht for a full semester in their Psychology and Neuroscience Program. As a neuroscience major, I found the classes challenging and the teaching style completely different than that of my small liberal arts school, Trinity College. I loved the change! I learned more about myself as a student than I thought possible, as I was much more independent in making sure I had studied enough and did the work to the best of my ability. I found the way classes were taught, using problem based learning (PBL) was quite different than I was used to, but allowed me to really explore what specific subtopics I was interested in. Outside of class, I found myself the unique opportunity to travel to several different places around Europe. Through CES, I was able to explore Berlin, Germany, Brussels and Ghent, Belgium, and of course, Amsterdam. Not only were the trips well organized and thoughtful, but each trip had one activity that was focused to each students specific study track. For example, as I am studying neuroscience, I was able to visit a psychiatry museum in Ghent and in Berlin, I had the unique and prominent opportunity to attend a talk given by a Professor at Maastricht University for other Maastricht Alumni. His talk was about his groundbreaking research and after the talk I was able to meet with him and through that connection I am currently working to pursue some research with him next. year. CES not only provided some travel opportunities but also great events for students to get to know each other and Maastricht. By the end of my time at Maastricht I felt I had met so many new people from all corners of the world. If I were able to go abroad again, I would make the same decision to go to Maastricht in a heart-beat.

Deciding to study abroad at Maastricht University as a part of their CES program was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The people in Maastricht are some of the nicest and most welcoming people that I ever had the pleasure of meeting.The CES staff, alongside the International Student Network at Maastricht (ISN), gave us all sorts of helpful advice, ranging from how to succeed in our classes, to tips for the best places to enjoy the night life at Maastricht.
 The following are a few key aspects of my experience in the program: Class sizes were smaller facilitating a better relationship with the instructors. The rhythm of life in Maastricht contrasts my life in California in the sense that things were very slowed down. I wasn’t in such a rush to do everything like I am living at home. While it was different at first, I grew to appreciate it very much and to appreciate giving everything its proper time. Maastricht being next to Belgium and Germany afforded us to be able to travel around and visit both those countries. 
 This amazing adventure taught me a lot more than I anticipated. Even though I learned about business in my classes, I learned about a lot more outside of my classes. I learned about dutch culture, and many other european cultures. This trip enriched me in ways I cannot put in words. It was definitely an experience of a lifetime!

I enjoyed every moment of my semester abroad in Maastricht, Netherlands. The psychology and neuroscience program made me think about the world perspective in this scientific research. The courses are challenging enough to keep you engage in the readings and discussions. The professors are emerged so well into their research that it becomes extremely inspiring. We also got to take a field trip with our program, and got to hear closely about neuroscience research and get a little bit of history on psychology through our visit to a museum in Gent. The program is flexible so you can also take other courses outside of neuroscience and through that I was able to take courses in Public Health. My experience there was more than just academics though. I met people from around the world, and it really provided me with a more worldly perspective. Plus, I lived with people from all around the world who were also studying abroad. One of my favorite memories of my time there is that every Tuesday, the people I lived with would have family dinners, where we could cook traditional food from our country or just cook any type of food overall. It was a nice way to bond and get to know more about the people I lived with!

Maastricht University’s Summer Program for European Studies was an absolutely amazing experience. Maastricht is a great location - at the southern tip of The Netherlands between Belgium and Germany - making it easy for travel around Europe. The city itself is gorgeous. The streets are full of character, there are cute little shops everywhere, and by the river is the perfect spot to enjoy all the city offers. I got to truly experience Dutch life there, from riding bikes around the city, eating traditional food, shopping at farmer’s and flea markets, and exploring all the beautiful streets to everything in between. The people there, especially the CES staff, are wonderful, as is the food and the beer. I felt right at home during the program and really didn’t want to leave when my time was over. I took two classes, a study tour and a media class, both of which were very interesting, fun, interactive, and very informational. My professors were awesome people and I learned a lot from them. The other students were just as excited about the whole program as I was which made it easy to make friends and have a lot of fun bar and club hopping (everyone in our program spent a lot of time at the Shamrock, St. Peter’s Irish Pub, Cliniq, and de Alla so check those out). There are also a whole bunch of cute cafes and smaller bars like Cafe Forum which has great live jazz nights. The Guesthouse was a nice place to live in during the program and offered a bunch of different living arrangements - though not much time was really spent inside while I was in such a great city. This program is well suited for all kinds of people, I definitely recommend it! I can’t wait to go back!