Why French Language and Culture?

I wanted to pursue my studies in French. Originally I wanted to be a translator but then I thought about becoming a professor. There are a lot of career opportunities if you study a language. I lived in France for two years, and eventually I want to go back and work there.  

About the programme

The programme is very challenging. In the USA I was a top-level student. Here I feel I am the lowest of all the students. Unfortunately, I am the only international student. I feel like I have met my match because it is more academic here and students are fluent in French. Before, my studies were too easy for me. The programme schedule is not as time consuming as in the USA though.

I am more interested in linguistics than in literature so I take a course in linguistics this semester. I am really impressed with the professors. When I did research for one of my term papers the name of my professor came up. He seems to be one of the best in his field. I find the programme quite hard. In the US it would take me two years to complete a MA programme. It is more challenging to do a Master’s in one year.

About the Universiteit van Amsterdam

The Universiteit van Amsterdam is a prestigious university. I am really impressed with the library. They have a broad collection of French books and dictionaries, many resources and even some rare collections here.

The International Student Network organises a lot of fun things, like ice-skating trips, the “borrels”(drinks), a halloween party, a traffic light party. It seems that a lot of students made friends during their introduction week. 

About the city and the Netherlands

I really like this city and I like living here as far as walking around and every day-things. It is so exciting to be here.
I find Dutch culture is very laid back. People are nice. There are many international people here, so you hear a lot of English. It is an easy city to find your way around. Everything is so close.

This MA programme is meant for students who

are very independent. Expect to be challenged!