NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences Speciality : Management
programme: Events Management

Being a student in Leisure and Events Management at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences is an exciting new experience for me. I am currently in my first year of study, and the second semester is coming to an end. Since I completed the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, this study was a very different step for me. From a very intense and rigorous programme, I came to a more practical-based study in a different country.

This programme really works for me because we get a chance to connect theory with real-life projects and real clients. Regarding theory, I really like that we do not have tests about it that could impact our results, but rather we are graded for the reflections we write on tests. So the theory is still tested, but in a much more reasonable way than standard tests. I also really like the grading system because it is divided into below the level, at the level, and above the level. Since I have experienced a very strict grading system in IBDP, I prefer this way much more because the emphasis is on improving rather than feeling bad about a certain grade.

Something that surprised me about this study is the amount of group work we do, and it is something you can get used to, even if you prefer individual work, as I do. At the end of the day, there are many assignments you still must complete individually, and mentors are making sure you are improving both as an individual and as a professional. Regarding mentors, I really appreciate their help and assistance through every step, as well as the University’s help in general. Whether you have questions or concerns about health insurance, housing, or finance, student info will guide you through everything.

The only thing I believe our study could improve on is giving students clearer guidelines, because even though I really like the freedom we get with assignments, some guidelines would really help and improve our overall performance. Too much freedom can sometimes cause confusion and dissatisfaction among students, but it is something I have already seen improve from the first semester. Even if there is confusion, mentors are always around to help us, and that is something I appreciate.

This study really exposes us to getting out of our comfort zone and developing as future professionals. Not only do we have to complete volunteer hours, but every few weeks we work on a new project where we get a chance to organise a real event. These opportunities are valuable as we gain hands-on experience, and we can see how we behave under the pressure of a deadline as real-life event managers.

Overall, this study is a good fit for me because of the hands-on approach and the many diverse opportunities there are for me to grow both as a professional and an individual. I would say that the study offers a lot of everything for everyone, whether you are more interested in sports, the event industry, the art industry, the business industry, or any other kind. You can find your fit here, as there are many options.

I’m currently a first-year Leisure & Events Management student, and so far I’m really happy with my programme and university choice. Before this, I attended a university and studied a different programme in Belgium, but I quit after a year and a half because it didn’t match my interests, and also the education system was not suitable for me. So I have a lot to compare, and I can say that NHL Stenden, with its design-based education system, works 100% better for me. I really like that we’re able to learn theory but also immediately work on projects since the start, and also on assignments from real clients, which feels very new and a bit scary at the start, but the more you get into it, the easier it gets.

Leisure & Events Management is a smaller programme (the international stream taught in English which I am a part of), so the connection with my classmates is way better, but especially way more personal with coaches than I’m used to from before, which is great because they really care about you as a person and are there to help whenever you need it. Overall, I feel really welcome and comfortable within the programme and the university itself.

It took me a bit of time to actually get used to the education system here. I still feel like I’m not fully used to it yet. Especially since sometimes the instructions and criteria for assignments are not that clear and can feel confusing at times, which is something to be improved for sure. However, you can always ask your coaches or your classmates and help each other. What was really new for me as well was the mostly feedback-based evaluation of our work, and also the amount of reflection we have to do. I’m still getting used to it, but I can already feel it helping me with really taking control and being responsible for my own learning, which is really the goal of it.

In the first year of my programme, a certain number of Volunteering hours is necessary to complete. It continues to put me outside of my comfort zone, but it also allows me to figure out which specific field I’m passionate about and would like to work in in the future.

To sum up, I really feel like I made the right choice to study this programme here and that it will prepare me really well for my future as a leisure & event professional.

I’ve had a largely positive experience at NHL Stenden University, particularly due to its hands-on approach to various projects. We often have the opportunity to collaborate with real-life clients from the local area, which makes the learning process feel much more practical and relevant. That said, it’s important to enjoy working in groups, as many projects are team-based. However, sometimes it can feel like that the theoretical parts falls a bit behind.

One aspect I really value is the sense of community. Classes are generally small, which creates a more personal environment. I was surprised to find that in my year’s international stream, Dutch students were actually in the minority compared to internationals. But during your studies, you can sometimes be confronted with the fact that Dutch skills are really helpful. Sadly, not all international degrees offer free Dutch classes.

However, while the freedom we have with assignments is great, it can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. It’s fantastic that we can choose our own approach to many tasks, but without clear guidelines, it can sometimes feel a bit unclear. Luckily, most teachers and coaches are very supportive and approachable, so you’re never completely on your own.

Definitely consider checking out the university! 🙂