Today is our second to last day here in The Netherlands! The trip is ending so soon, and I am very upset. But, today did make up for it. We went to InHolland, Rotterdam campus, where they focus on business, finance, and law. We started our visit with a tour of the campus and surrounding city area. This was one of my favorite parts of the day. We were told about how the city used to stop by the river, and there has been so much development over the past 20-25 years. They talked about how they take inspiration from US cities such as Manhattan to inspire building plans. This was specifically mentioned with their inner city beach they are planning to create. They are going to start by adding extremely tall buildings that will block the view and sun of the naturally beautiful overlook area. Our tour guides seemed skeptical about this plan, as it disrupts the view. But, in the same area, the had small houses for rent on the water. They explained that this was helping to combat the housing crisis and allowing for small sustainable homes.
We also learned a lot about the history of Rotterdam. I was told that the small red lights in the cities floor were actually where bombs landed. I thought they were something to do with traffic. We also had the opportunity to look at the original buildings before the bombing near and across the water. Some of the original architecture was still in place, and they were used as shipping ports! This was the first mention of concept to consumer. The ports were used to transport goods all around the world. The US and Indonesia were the two I can remember. They also talked about New York City, and how when you go, you will not come back.
They also tied in our class concept with sustainability when they mentioned their green spaces. They said they were going to create 8 new parks, all throughout the city. They are currently testing out smaller green spaces in communities, which are not built on concrete so that the rain water can be reused. This project has a lot to do with stakeholders, because if the smaller spaces are not a success, it will be very difficult to implement 8 large parks.
After our walking tour, we had a small information session about InHolland and what the school has to offer. We talked a lot about the education differences between the US and Europe, and I might just have to transfer. The cost alone is a major selling point. I also enjoyed hearing about their study abroad programs and how it compares to ours, especially since I work in the Global Experiences Office. We then took a small quiz to test our knowledge about the Netherlands, and this is the first game I lost all trip. Some good things do have to come to an end!
To finish off a very productive day, Zoe, Cassie, and I headed to a cat cafe to decompress. I had delicious avocado toast while petting the most adorable chunky cats. I wish this trip was not coming to an end, but tune in tomorrow for our farewell!