Settling into my new city, Amsterdam

Louisa Wenderoth, studying at the University of Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Amsterdam has a lot to offer. I arrived two months ago to begin my bachelor degree and as you know, every new beginning can be tough. Want to know how I settled into my new city? Here are the top 5 challenging, weird and funnest experiences so far!

####1. Finding a place

There are many things in life that are fun... flat hunting is not one of them.

In Amsterdam, it can become the challenge of your life! I spent all summer on apartment portals and Facebook groups.

The flat market can be very tough, especially for students. The most desperate I felt was at a campsite close to Amsterdam, as I couldn’t afford the hostel any more. I was without a cooker to make food, had no clean clothes and three flat viewings with fancy brokers ahead of me. But hey, there is hope. I eventually found a big apartment that I now share with my boyfriend and another flatmate.

Happy ending!

####2. Studying in the Netherlands

You think your university is tough? I thought that too. Until I came here.

The University of Amsterdam asks for a lot from the beginning. Back in Germany, I didn’t spend nearly as much time on reading and studying. Luckily the topics are interesting, modern and current. My study program had its second birthday this summer. I belong to the third generation of the bachelor’s program Politics, Psychology, Law and Economics. Yes, all at once. An interdisciplinary approach that helps to gain a new understanding of social happenings!

####3. Busy bike traffic

Amsterdam is famous for its busy bike traffic.

Coming from abroad, this can cause some difficulties. As a pedestrian, you can feel a bit overwhelmed at times by all the traffic around you. But no worries, I got used to it very quickly and am now biking like a local…well trying at least.

####4. Weird snacks

Every country has its own food culture and the Netherlands are no exception.

The weirdest snack so far has been a 'Frikandel‘. A deep fried brown mixture in the shape of a cucumber. The ingredients are a well-kept secret, guess why!

####5. Beach life

One of the great advantages of Amsterdam are the nearby beaches.

Ijburg is my favourite so far. It is an artificial beach 20 minutes from the centre and a great spot for hanging out in summer and water sports all year round! Ijburg is frequently visited by kite and windsurfers and I have managed my first metres on the board already!

Louisa is in her first year studying Politics, Psychology, Law and Economics at the University of Amsterdam.