We started our adventure today in the center of Rotterdam to visit another location of InHolland University! The location varied a lot from our first visit in Delft, as this was the location for the business and law schools and also located in the busy environment of Rotterdam versus the more tame atmosphere of Delft. We were greeted by several staff members to begin with a walking tour of the city! We observed all the new constructions of the city and the stunning architecture of modern buildings. Walking through the city we got to also learn about the historical significance and transformation of buildings over time. We also reached a green patch in the city of grass and flowers with a little park. They have a goal to maximize green space in the area for several benefits – such as absorbing water and cleaning the air. This also is an initiative to overall make city residents happier.
After taking a walking tour of the city we made it back to the actual campus, which was breathtaking. Right in the building entrance the 17 United Nations sustainability goals are presented – which was so great to see how much value these hold to the university.
The building was so modern and bustling with students left and right. The campus also made a point of showcasing the hands on experience they offer to their students. One example we saw of this is that we passed a live radio room where students hosted a radio talk show in the business and communications world! We climbed to the top of the building and were greeted with a tasty lunch and coffee. Some students were even pulled out by students at the university to interview at this time. We were then given a presentation about all the opportunities at the university and what was specifically studied at this location. Their university has some interesting differences from ours – such as the cost, year length, and amount of abroad students they receive! We wrapped up our university visit by playing a round of Dutch trivia, which I actually came in second for and received some university goodies!
We had free time the rest of the day so a group of us decided to make the venture to The Hague on the tram. It was so fun exploring this new city and seeing more of the culture. We first stopped in a vintage store which to my surprise had tons of Steelers gear! Who knew!
We then wandered to a few more vintage shops and got to take a look at some of the landmarks in the city. We stopped at a local restaurant for dinner and ice cream and took in more of the city by exploring and walking around. We finally took the tram back home, ready to recharge for our final full day tomorrow! Today was so interesting seeing all the cultural differences between universities at home versus abroad, and it’s something I’ll definitely be keeping in my mind as school starts up back home! It was also very inspiring seeing the growing city of Rotterdam and their aspiring goals of sustainability and growth.