Dishcover the world

Do you want to know how our current international students have experienced the cultural differences between their home countries and The Netherlands?
In the video series Dishcover the world they discuss everything, from finding their way in a new country to making new friends and stepping out of their comfort zones, all while cooking delicious meals from their own cultures.

'When I was 15, I came to the Netherlands from Aruba for the first time to visit various universities. In Aruba there is only one university and the programme offer is limited, so many people come to the Netherlands to study. Leiden immediately felt like a cozy city. Aruba is a small island, so that cozy feeling gave me the idea that I would get used to the new environment faster here than in any other city. Actually, I chose the city and the university first, before I decided on a programme. In the beginning, it took a lot of getting used to living alone without having my family around me. I often turned on the radio or TV for some background noise. Now I actually enjoy the silence and being on my own, funny how things can change.

I always wanted a future where I could help people and where my work would be varied. My interest in people and their behaviour led me to study Psychology. In the Netherlands, I can learn a lot from people in the profession and discuss different cases, which is why I want to do my master's here as well and gain some work experience. There is a shortage of psychologists in Aruba, so eventually I want to go back to help the people there and maybe set up my own practice.'

Elise Malyce Meelis
Loves to help other people