Nicolas Désilets-Laforge

When it comes to choosing a destination for an exchange, some students will look for a university with a high rank in their field, some students will look for a destination with a unique culture and history, and some students will look for a lively and young city with a vibrant student life. For me, the choice was easy: The University of Groningen because it has it all.

I was given the opportunity to follow a number of International Law classes mainly at the master level during my exchange. As an LLB student, I found it greatly enriching to discuss very specific topics in International Law and enhance my ability to analyse and criticize some of the legal issues. The lecturers were very knowledgeable and focused on engaging conversations in class rather than simply teaching the legal concepts. This approach creates a very stimulating environment.

The Netherlands has so much to offer to exchange students, especially Groningen. The UG is situated in a human size city, where everybody can feel at home very quickly thanks to the known Dutch hospitality. Although I only learned the minimum of Dutch required to say “hello”, “please” and “thank you”, I was able to communicate with Dutch people since most of them speak very good English. It made it a whole lot easier to get to know the Dutch culture and to make Dutch friends.

Hosting a lot of international students, Groningen is a very multicultural city. I was living in an international student house with 50 other students from across the globe. I made really good friends during my stay in Groningen, friendships that will last a life time. The goodbyes were not easy, but I left Groningen with my head full of memories of our bike rides to the lake and hanging out at Noorderplantsoen park where all students meet on sunny days.

Without any hesitation, I would recommend the University of Groningen to anyone. I will never forget the incredible time I had in Groningen. This really was a life changing experience.

Nicolas Désilets-Laforge , Canada, Exchange Student