Student review [#20386] for Media and Information
at University of Amsterdam - UvA

Coming to study in Amsterdam was one of the best decisions I took as an 18-year-old. I wasn’t quite sure about what I wanted to study but I surely knew Amsterdam was the place. What I loved about the student life at UvA is that you feel really integrated in the city – to me the prospect of being able to study at different campuses was exciting since I enjoy changing scenery and environment. Furthermore, I was surprised by how international my program is – my year had 15 different nationalities and I got in touch with such diverse stories and cultures which came about not only in a study environment but also outside of the university.
I must say I have mixed feelings about the study program. I was definitely intrigued by the combination of philosophy courses and the practical courses, however, I wished there was more of these and less of research and analysis. The study is quite academically-oriented and if you enjoy research and writing, this is definitely great practice. I wouldn’t say it’s too challenging but you definitely gain valuable insights on how we live with and understand modern media. The knowledge you gain doesn’t ensure a career straight after graduation, it poses even more questions about what you can do. What I took from it is critical and philosophical perspectives on how I tackle communication and media use. And I am currently carefully choosing my next professional opportunity.
During the 3 years of studying I made use of loads of free time, of amazing facilities, of great social and cultural events and of the responsibility of my freedom. At UvA I learned more than Media and Information – I learned about how to observe myself and my surroundings in order to be happy and productive in a modern society that needs aware young people.