University College Maastricht

Sterre van de Ven, 3rd year University College Maastricht student, The Netherlands, Concentration Social Sciences& Humanities

My name is Sterre van de Ven, I am a 20-year-old Dutch student starting my second year at UCM. I love to speed skate on ice but as there is no ice track in Maastricht, I also like to go out on my racing bike and explore the beautiful nature around Maastricht or do other activities such as practicing yoga with my housemates and playing the guitar. Luckily, UCM offers plenty of opportunities to make music together, which is something I enjoy a lot.

Why did you choose UCM?

There are multiple reasons why I chose for UCM. One of the main reasons was the Problem Based Learning system of Maastricht University, which allows me to undertake an active role in learning process. Another reason for me was the open curriculum that UCM offers, as it enables me to choose and explore all my interests and because it empowers me to critically view social issues from an interdisciplinary perspective. I really appreciate the broad diversity among the students of UCM. The open curriculum in combination with the PBL-system creates classrooms full of different perspectives. I can say my expectations of a safe, lively and informative learning environment are met and that the PBL-system indeed allows me to have greater ownership over my learning process.

What was your first impression of UCM?

I was happily surprised by the nice and lively atmosphere of the building. Although the common room full of students first overwhelmed me a bit, I quickly felt welcome as there is always someone around to talk to.

Tara Scheer, 2nd year University College Maastricht student, The Netherlands

Concentration Social Sciences

Hi there! My name is Tara, I’m 19 years old, and I was born and raised in the Netherlands. In my leisure hours, I love spending time with loved ones, painting, reading, traveling, and making music. Regarding sports, I enjoy going running or taking a long hike in Maastricht’s nature.

Why did you choose UCM?

When I first visited UCM on an Experience Day, I already had my heart set on doing a Liberal Arts and Sciences program. It was only a question of which one I should choose! From the university colleges I had visited, UCM stood out for me in its broad and interesting course selection, helpful staff, and because of its location in the beautiful Maastricht. I can confidently say UCM has met my expectations. It is an inclusive and inspiring program where you can explore your academic interests by shaping your own curriculum. Although the high workload and forming of your own curriculum can be challenging, I have always felt supported by both staff and peers.

What do you think of Maastricht as a city?

IWhat appeals to me about Maastricht is its cosy and close-knit nature. You cannot enter the city centre without bumping into someone you know. I love being in the city just for enjoying the old buildings and historical sites. There are plenty of cafes, bakeries, and stores for shopping. I also fell in love with the city’s dynamic nature. Just outside of the city centre, you can go on a hike in the forest or enjoy the Maas from another point of view.

In mijn eerste jaar kon ik vakken volgen in alle academische disciplines die me interesseerden. Deze ervaring uit de eerste hand leerden me te begrijpen in welke academische disciplines ik me echt wilde specialiseren. Over mijn andere interesses hoefde ik me niet langer af te vragen “wat als?”

Hoorcolleges vind ik zelden leuk omdat je twee uur zit te luisteren naar wat een docent vertelt. Onderwijsgroepen zijn echter zeer interactief en ik vind het erg interessant om met mijn medestudenten te debatteren. Het contact met hen is uitstekend en het voelt echt of ik onderdeel ben van deze fantastische gemeenschap. Bij UCM staan docenten dicht bij de studenten, waardoor de relatie veel vriendschappelijker wordt Hun lessen voelen meer als een gesprek tussen gelijken dan als strikt onderwijs.

Maastricht is niet groot, waardoor je met de fiets binnen 20 minuten overal kunt komen. Maar er zijn ook genoeg sociale activiteiten, zodat je je niet hoeft te vervelen. Bovendien bestaat een groot deel van de bevolking uit studenten, dus je voelt je snel thuis, zeker ook omdat er genoeg mensen zijn met wie je iets gemeen hebt. Ik voel me hier echt thuis.