Tuesday, December 28, 2010

How much is the people to people student ambassador program trip?


How much is the people to people student ambassador program trip?
How much is the people to people student ambassador program trip to england, france, germany, belgium, the netherlands, and switzerland for 20 days?
Other - Europe - 2 Answers
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1 :
alot... and for team rocket it still is alot...
2 :
i went in 2000 to australia & new zealand. don't recall exactly how much it was, but it was around 4 grand if i remember correctly. awesome trip though

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Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Can anyone explain to me why tuitition fee in the Netherlands is so much cheaper?


Can anyone explain to me why tuitition fee in the Netherlands is so much cheaper?
Tuition fee in the Netherlands for "hogeschool" (equivalent to university here) only costs more than a thousand euros per year. They have much better computers and newer equipement! Also, if you are studying in programs like biochemistry, the school will try and match you up with an internship!!! I'm in Canada, and the tuitition costs $5400 Cdn per year! Why is it SO much more expensive here??? The school doesnt find me internships, doesnt have laptops for rent at 2euro/hr, much of the equipement is getting old!! Also, government aid for students in the Netherlands is much better! Why is it so bad here compared to them???
Investing - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Value of money is always cheaper depending on the countries and their economy and conditions. India is cheap for labour but now they pay very high equal to US. Just depends on the way the companies are doing in regard to business
2 :
Because the Netherlands is a socialist state where people don't get to choose where their money goes. They trade their freedom for ignorance and the schools end up being cheaper. They trade their free market for a regulated market, which is why the economy isn't so great over there. They've traded their individual liberties and prosperity and admitted that a little intellectual elite in some far distant capital and plan their lives for them, better than they can plan them themselves.
3 :
The Netherlands is one of the richest countries in the World. Each person makes on average $40,571.00 USD per year and in Canada the average is only $38,951 USD per year. They work harder too. In the Netherlands they make $32.54 USD per hour worked and in Canada they only make $27.90 USD per hour worked. Inflation is EXTREMELY LOW at 1.3% (2006) against Canada's 2% Unemployment is EXTREMELY LOW at 3.8% (2006) against Canada's 6%

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Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Netherlands, Sweden, OR Denmark for Student Exchange (please help, 10 pts)?


Netherlands, Sweden, OR Denmark for Student Exchange (please help, 10 pts)?
Can't decide, and need to decide soon. Netherlands - Amsterdam Uni Denmark - Aarhus Uni Sweden - Lund Uni I'm from Canada, and would've loved to go to England, but I felt like I needed to go experience somewhere a bit more different. Where would you pick based on: * Nightlife / Social Life / Friendliness of the people * Costs * Quality of school (IF you know) THANKS
Other - Europe - 1 Answers
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1 :
I'd delete nightlife if I were you. Women get raped and killed in Europe these days you know. All of those cities are equally bad when it comes to safety. But still, Lund should be the best choise. It's not good. But it's the best.

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Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Are People to People student ambassador programs good or bad?

Are People to People student ambassador programs good or bad?
I have the opportunity to go to Ireland, England, Wales, the Netherlands, and Belgium with the People to People student ambassador program. I have heard a lot of really good things about this and a few bad things. I just want to get some opinions from other people that aren't trying to sell this opportunity to me. One bad thing is that it is really expensive, but if it is worth it that's not a problem. So if you know anything about it, what do you think of these programs?
Studying Abroad - 1 Answers
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1 :
cool! im going to australia(: i know alot of people have said thats its bad cuz its a scam and they only want your money...NOT true! its only expensive cuz it pays for everything! air plane tickets, food,transportation, activities and etc... its pretty cheap compared to my trip to NY cuz i paid 3,000 for only 3 days XD and people to people trips are like for 20 days! i think its worth going, it looks like alot of fun:D you'll learn so much and make alot of friends(:

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Sunday, November 28, 2010

US Military man getting married to Dutch College student in netherlands.?


US Military man getting married to Dutch College student in netherlands.?
I'm not quite sure how to work everything out, neither her. She is in her first year of college but she wants to move over here when we get married, i am in the united states airforce so she could easily live on base with me, but what about becoming a citizen and everything like that, and also because the goverment pays for her college how would that work over here is there and programs for international students that anyone knows of. and what else would we all have to do to get the situation squared away, thank you all who answer this helping me. god bless!
Higher Education (University +) - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Locate your nearest USCIS liason. They will have one on base. Tell them your situation and they should be able to guide you. You can also go to the USCIS website and ask a representative. She should be able to apply for a green card once you are married. Good luck!
2 :
Congratulations. You can probably talk to folks at your military installation and get practical info about your situation, much more efficiently than here. A foreigner who marries a U.S. citizen qualifies to become a U.S. citizen, but it takes a couple of years to complete that process. The Dutch system of paying for college only works for...Dutch universities. Not going to work if she joins you in the US.
3 :
You said that she is in her first year of college now, meaning that she started about a month ago or so. If this is her first study, and quits the school before February 1st (don't know the exact date, she should check that on the site we students get our money from - www.ib-groep.nl), she can get the money back she payed for college (It was 1620 Euro this year I think). It is possible to receive money from the government if you study abroad, but there are certain conditions. You should also check that on the site of the IB-groep. Maybe she can mail them for the possibilities. However, if she becomes an US citizen, she will lose her Dutch citizenship and is no longer eligible to receive money from the government. Hope I helped!

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Sunday, November 14, 2010

What is it like to go on a Student Exchange Program?


What is it like to go on a Student Exchange Program?
Hi. My name is Matt. I live in Australia and I am 13. I am thinking of going on a Student Exchange Program to The Netherlands (Where I was born). I was just wondering, what is it like? I am an independent person, but I don't like being away from home. Should I go now, and do the 5/6 months? Or, should I wait for them to make The Netherlands available for the 1/2 month exchange?
Other - Education - 2 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
If you don't like being away from home, I don't know if an exchange program is really right for you! BUT I'm sure that if exchange is what you really really want, you'll be able to overcome that!! Being an exchange student is a wonderful experience. It's very difficult and sometimes scary... But so worth it. I think you're a little young to go NOW. Which exchange program are you talking about? Most respectable programs I've heard of have a minimum age of like 15. But when you DO go, I definitely recommend going for 5/6 months, or even a whole year! That way you can learn the language. : ) Dutch is a great language to learn because it's not as common as say French or Spanish so it'll give you an edge!
2 :
Congratulations on your choice. I spent a year as an exchange student in the Netherlands and it completely changed my life. The Netherlands is a wonderful country to go to for an exchange because the excellent public transportation system will allow you to go on day trips to various cities by train, bus, and tram. The Dutch ride their bicycles everywhere and I loved being able to get around so easily. Holland is a beautiful old country filled with little towns, but it also has some large exciting cities. You will be able to find something you enjoy, whether it is arts and culture or sports. The Dutch are very sportsminded. I knew no Dutch when I went, but easily picked it up, and with a little study found I had few problems. People in the Netherlands generally speak a few languages, so your problem may be trying to get them to stop speaking English to you. Learning a new language, particularly the language of your birth country, will be a rewarding experience. I didn't know it at the time, but learning Dutch led me to study German, Italian, French, and Spanish. I now teach Spanish. When I went to Holland, I was fairly shy around new people and my experience of being out in the world on my own helped me to gain more confidence. I didn't really experience homesickness and for some reason I never thought much about being away from home before I left. I think you will find that when you are living with a host family their home becomes your home. Since you are independent, you should be able to make this adjustment. And, well, with Skype, IM, and e-mail you are really very close to your family and friends in Australia. I hope you will go on the 5/6 month exchange because 1/2 months is very short. Good luck with your choice.

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Sunday, November 7, 2010

Is there any way for an international student to get a loan in the Netherlands?

Is there any way for an international student to get a loan in the Netherlands?
I'm American, but I would like to study at UvA. I know I can get funds through FAFSA, but the conversion rate is very high (the loan takes dollars and converts them to Euros). Plus, I would like to work in Europe when I'm done which means I can't start paying back my Federal loans (since I would need dollars to do so). Is there any way for me to get a student loan in Euros in the Netherlands?
Netherlands - 2 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
The state sponsored programs only apply to EU citizens. There's a few scholarship programs which are outlined on the website. Do realize that, unless specifically indicated, all course are in Dutch.
2 :
I think you are not going to be lucky. First of all, FAFSA will only pay for selected schools/universities, all of which are in the USA. They might be able to loan you the money for an exchange, but not for a full study abroad. As far as I understand they do not even pay for a one year abroad. And to get a student visa abroad, in most or all countries you have to proof that you have the money for the whole year or even whole study before you get your visa. And that is going to be a lot more for a study abroad than for one in your home country, as the gouvernment is not going to subsidize you, neither your own nor the one in the country you want to study. Your best option would be a commercial bank, and I am sure that no European bank will loan money to a prospective American student, nor will banks in the USA be happy to send money abroad where you will be out of reach in case you fail to pay back. The conversion rate is against you at this time, but not in the way you explain. It is that for $800 you can live a month as student in the USA, but when you come to the Netherlands, that money is going to get you €550, while you need €800 to live from. Which means that you will need to borrow €1200 for each month instead of $800, that is besides the higher cost for tuition. If you had been studying 20 years back your dollar would have been worth more than our currencies, which made studying abroad not much more expensive than studying at home. But you live now and the exchange rates makes studying here almost twice as expensive as studying at home. And while you stand a better chance of getting a job in Europe when you have studies here, it is by no means certain that you will, and even if you find a job, you will still have to apply for a work permit and those are often denied. In that case you will have to go back to the USA and find a job there, which might be much harder with a degree from an unknown or almost unknown European university. Better study in the USA, where FAFSA can get you loans, where you might be able to win scholarships and apply for an exchange. If you are serious about wanting to work in the Netherlands in the future, start learning Dutch as soon as possible. You will need it and it is not an easy language to learn. PS, if you get a loan offer as answer to your question, on the site or as mail, be very suspicious, there are scammers that react on questions like yours, offering you the best loans with the least costs, but trying to get your information so they can steal from you.

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Monday, November 1, 2010

American wanting to move to the Netherlands-where do I start?


American wanting to move to the Netherlands-where do I start?
U.S. citizen would like to move to the Netherlands, not as a student but as a worker. Where do I start? What numbers can I call-should I inquire in the Netherlands, or at a Consulate here in the U.S.?
Netherlands - 1 Answers
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1 :
The best place to start is to research, read and do some homework because it is not as easy as just filling in a visa form and packing your bags :0) It is not an easy prospect to move to any of the EEA countries unless you already hold an EEA passport, and that does include Americans Basically if you were to move over here with the wish to live and work, then you would have to find an employer who would apply for a work permit on your behalf. That work permit would not be granted unless it was proven that the job is of such a specialist nature that no-one else in the total pool of labour from (not just the Netherlands but the) whole EEA area. You can read more about the details of it here in a question I answered a while ago for another American interested in the same. It gives links to the IND (Dutch immigration site), how to look for jobs and accommodation as well. http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=Au4FSM_iOwVeAeSn5NGVt4fty6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20081029005645AAYhd63 Also take into account that the economy is having an effect on the EEA market and whilst the Netherlands is not (yet?) as badly affected as other EU countries such as Spain or the UK, of course the labour market in those countries are free to move to the Netherlands as well. So read the link I gave you first, and then you can follow up with details on: http://www.ind.nl/EN/verblijfwijzer/ - immigration dept wizard http://www.ind.nl/en/Images/4012_VIN_ENG_tcm6-595.pdf - immigration dept overview (brochure) http://www.netherlands-embassy.org/dutchmissions.asp - links to Dutch consolate details and a confirmation of what I stated also http://www.cgny.org/article.asp?articleref=AR00000399EN Another good source is the expat sites and you can check forums as well to see people who have "been there, done that" http://www.justlanded.com/english/Netherlands http://holland.angloinfo.com/ http://www.expatica.com/nl/main.html In short, you need highly specialist skills which are in demand to get you into the Netherlands (unless you have a proven relationship with a Dutch national) for living & working. Another route is to work for a company in the US which has branch officies in NL with the aim of being transferred based on in-house experience built up - but it also has to be said that this is becoming less common/needed these days as well Sorry if this sounds overly negative to someone who is genuinally interested, but it is better if you read and check in advance than to make a costly trip and be dissappointed at the end of it.

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Thursday, October 28, 2010

how to pay a Dutch Student loan from USA?

how to pay a Dutch Student loan from USA?
Hi, I have a student loan in the Netherlands but live in the USA. My US bank charges me always $45 to transfer the money to the Netherlands. I do NOT have anybody to pick up money for me at some bank somewhere... I need to transfer the money directly into the student loan account.
Personal Finance - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Look at your loan papers very carefully. See if you can email them with your question. See if they can accept money via, say, Paypal. See if you can pay with money order. There ought to be an international site that can take your US dollars and generate a money order for you. See what happens if you pay 6 times a year, twice as much each time. Or 4 times a year, three times as much. (My USA loan had no problem with lump sums and skips.)
2 :
Then have your bank do a wire transfer to the loan account.
3 :
U have to find another bank. U have to find a bank that transfer the money directly to your Netherlands bank. A bank transfers money directly or having first passed through correspondent banks. The higher the number of corresponding banks, the higher you pay. So u have to find the banks that do this transfer cheaper :)

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Thursday, October 14, 2010

Is 25 years too old to study in the netherlands?


Is 25 years too old to study in the netherlands?
Hi Am a kenyan lady who has studied in Dubai and now I am looking for a culinary school in the netherlands. I have checked in every site possible to see if my age could be a restriction in getting a student visa in the Netherlands. My husband told me that he suspects the embassy will not give me a visa since am above the student age? Could this be true? Kindly let me know. Thanks!
Netherlands - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Why don't you just ask this question to the embassy? Those are the experts, aren't they?
2 :
Age discrimination is against our constitution so I don't think that will be a problem. Find a culinary school worth your wile might just be a problem.
3 :
no problem you can study. am 29 and just finishing. of course enjoy biking, the herring and the canals!!

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Thursday, October 7, 2010

What is the most inexpensive way to transfer money from USA to The Netherlands?


What is the most inexpensive way to transfer money from USA to The Netherlands?
My husband has a student loan in The Netherlands and pays every month $45 transfer fee for international money transfer. Is there a better way to do it? Thank you!!!!
Netherlands - 2 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
I think that's more a question for USA banking
2 :
Try to talk with the bank to get the payments less often. If you send a yearly amount the costs will not be much higher but so much less often that you can win a lot on that. The only problem will be that you will have to pay 11/12 earlier than the date you have to, but you might get a reduction in the amount needed to pay if you contact the bank.

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Friday, October 1, 2010

Healthcare for an EU student studying in the Netherlands?

Healthcare for an EU student studying in the Netherlands?
Hi! I am wondering if anyone here can kindly help me with an issue. This fall I'll be beginning my undergraduate degree in the Netherlands. I have lived all my life in the US, but I am a dual citizen in Finland, and I will be studying there technically as a Finnish student. I've never had health insurance in the EU. I've tried contacting the Dutch health care organization but their answer was not helpful. Should I contact Finland or the Netherlands to enroll for health insurance? How should I go about it? I won't be working the Netherlands (at least not at first), but I will be studying there for at least three years. Thanks very much, Todd
Netherlands - 1 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
You need to have health insurance in the Netherlands and if you read this then it explains it clearly http://www.nuffic.nl/international-students/how-to-prepare/insurance/health-insurance Option 2 is not applicable for you because whilst you hold a Finnish passport, you have not been resident in FInland and therefore are not already insured and thus cannot make use of the EHIC card system as far as I am aware (and in any case it would mean making payments to a Finnish insurance company anyway) So you will need to take out insurance and as it states in the article maybe it's a good idea to seek advice from your university in NL, and/or check the two listed in the article for international students You say you have contacted the "Dutch health care organisation" - but whom did you contact? The SVB is the place you have to contact http://www.svb.nl/int/en/algemeen/contact/index.jsp and they are normally good at responding in a timely manner in my experience (I worked as a student advisor for foreign students and had to refer to the SVB several times for questions like this)

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Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Foreign Exchange Student Program in the Netherlands?

Foreign Exchange Student Program in the Netherlands?
I'm 15 and want to be a foreign exchange student next summer (I'll be 16 by then). I want to go to the Netherlands because I've heard great things about it and also because of all of the pipe organs there (I'm an avid organist), but I have a few problems. The first is I don't know the language because the only languages I can take are French, Spanish, German, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, and Arabic. I hear the Dutch speak really good English, but I wonder if there is a language requirement. Secondly, I want to go in the summertime for 3 months, but my dad says exchange students can only go during the school year and for 4 months. Is there a program that offers summer programs? Also, I am homeschooled and therefore not with any public or private school program. Can I still be a foreign exchange student? What programs will help me? My friend also wants to come with me (she is not homeschooled and also doesn't speak Dutch). Can we go together and stay with the same family? Is there a way to choose where I want to be in the Netherlands? I really don't mind where I go in the end, but I'd really enjoy the Dutch countryside. My parents are a little uncomfortable about my request to going to the Netherlands because they think the Dutch are weird. Can anyone who's been there tell me about their trip and what Holland and the Dutch are like and how I'd live there? Any tips about foreign exchange student living? Thanks so much!
Netherlands - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Yes we are very weird. Stay away if you can!
2 :
Ok since you don't have any answers yet then I will try to give a little bit of help where I can. Language - English is spoken at a reasonable level thoughout the country and in some area's & families to a very high level. If you can find an exchange program (more later) then chances are you would not be expected to speak Dutch anyway Summer/term time - to be honest all the exchange programs I have ever heard of are all term-time and education is part of the total experience. In my opinion there would not be enough Dutch families wanting to take on someone for 4 months over the summer for the simple fact that it's summertime and most people take off on holiday anyway Programs - well I only know exchange programs for college/uni level only and non for school or home-schoolers. There is a section on Yahoo Answers for Studying Abroad that I have sometimes answerered in, in the past. Sometimes you can get some good answers (but some are spam, so take care), so maybe you can ask this again here http://answers.yahoo.com/dir/index;_ylt=At6Ga05DvkJgtGtP5XmuCqTW5nNG;_ylv=3?sid=396546332 Your friend - well to be honest a good start might be for her to check out the situaiton with her school and ask for advice, sources etc and then you have a starting point. Oh and the last point - what do your parents base the opinion that the "Dutch are wierd"? Did they ever visit here? How many Dutch did they meet? I'm bemused how they came to this opinion! Wishing you much luck
3 :
There are some programs that require you have take a year or two of the language of the country you are going to and some have no language requirements. Yes there are programs that do summer homestays. I am pretty sure that you can still do it being home schooled, as long as you have documents or paperwork that proves your education. The Netherlands is a very nice country. People ride bikes a lot to get places or walk. I went to Amsterdam, Den Haag, and Amersfoort. Amsterdam was nice.. a lot more crowded, I preferred Den Haag and Amersfoort it was quiter and cleaner. Arriving in Amsterdam was a breeze because the train station is at the airport. I also had the best yogurt I've ever had in my life there! Check AFS and your local rotary club if they do exchanges, it's a pretty lengthy process to get accepted into the rotary club but it is alot cheaper with them!

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Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Foreign Exchange student: Netherlands, what should i expect?

Foreign Exchange student: Netherlands, what should i expect?
Im Asian btw. coming all the way from California,USA. I will be going to a Dutch school in Den Haag for a year and living with a host family. i have a couple of questions: 1) Will i be looked down or teased due to my race? 2) What are Dutch students like? Are they friendly? 3) Will i be fluent in Dutch after a year? i plan on using it as much as i can. (I have a girlfriend who speaks afrikaans back home and want to impress her lol.) 4) What can i learn in terms of History,Art,Music,Literature and all those good stuff? Thanks Guys!
Netherlands - 6 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
1. I dont think you will be looked at negatively 2.they are dutch 3.Youll understand some of it 4.all that stuff, yeah
2 :
1. You should be ok. Dutch people generally pride themselves on being tolerant, and although there are some racially discriminatory people, I don't think it is any worse than any other country. 2. Yes, generally quite friendly. 3. You won't be fluent, but you might be able to get by. The hardest part about learning Dutch is convincing Dutch people to not speak English to you, as they will automatically switch over when they realise you don't speak Dutch. Considering you are with a host family, they will hopefully accommodate your needs and force you to speak Dutch at home. 4. Well, that really depends on which books you read, what teachers you have, what course you are doing. How long is a piece of string really. Good luck with the trip. I'm sure you'll love it. Peter http://www.travellerspoint.com
3 :
1) The Dutch are very tolerant. If you behave within societies 'normen en waarden' (morals and values) you will get by just fine. I have to warn you though, that the Dutch sense of humor tends to be quite blunt, almost crossing the line, and far surpassing it if you're not used to it. Most races, politicians, nationalities and celebrities get made fun of on (comedy) TV shows or just in conversation, which might, if you are easily offended, be uncomfortable for you. 2) Dutch students are the same as every other student. However, the Dutch mentality might be a bit different. We are friendly people, but we are rarely warm people. We might invite you over for dinner, but after that we might not contact you for a few days because we're busy. We love to tell you all about our country and take you to places as the 'token tourist', but it usually takes Dutch people a while to warm up to someone new. The host family you will be staying with, will probably do everything to make your stay as nice as possible, but I doubt they will change anything in their daily schedule, for we tend to love order and stability. 3) Dutch is a difficult language, yet not impossible to learn. Dutch people however, will switch to English as soon as they hear you are not Dutch, which might be an obstacle. However they tend to get the hint when you are the one starting out in Dutch. I suggest you get a book of Dutch phrases and use them whenever you can. Going to the shops is usually a good way to have short conversations. May I also remind you that Afrikaans is not like Dutch at all. They have similarities, like Dutch and German, but speaking Dutch will not guarantee you getting by in either of those two languages. 4) How much you will learn will depend on yourself. How quick do you learn, how much do you want to know? The Netherlands has a very rich history. Dating from the 13th century (when it was still a part of the seventeen provinces of The Netherlands) it has seen many changes, however many of its history is still visible today, especially in Amsterdam, with its narrow houses and long canals. I suggest you visit the biggest cities and the main attractions there, which will give you a lot of insight on how the people here used to live. EDIT: Nevermind sKetch, he's probably still stoned or something.
4 :
One thing I will say Louise after reading another of your questions http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AiR7LVK4lzqZJh5y4VSbEE8jzKIX;_ylv=3?qid=20080908195424AACL7kC is that although you are young and so partly can be forgiven, you do need to learn a little toleration Your question berates foreigners using English and yet you are concerned how Dutch students will treat you when doing the same? You will be treated in kind - I mean it is like a mirror, the way you treat people is the way you will be treated in return. Typically people are not as fickle as in the US, and if you are rude or condiscending, you will certainly get it back in triplicate. So maybe you can consider this as well and try to be a little more kind about "foreigners" (which is what you will be when you come here).
5 :
I have friends in holland ages 18, 19 I will repost your question to them and get back to you
6 :
I have lived in NL for 5 years and here answers on your questions: 1)not openly,but behind your back- yes,for sure 2)no,you wont have any dutch friends,the dutch society is extrenely closed conservative and racist.But on other hand you will have a lot of foreign friends. 3)No-impossible,out of question.The language is hard to learn and nobody will be willing to practice it with you.99% of population speaks english,they will keep talking to you in English even if you speak to them in Dutch. 4)it depends on you. regarding arts the Netherlands has not much to offer,only 2-3 famous museums,that'sit.Music and literature are not appreciated in this culture,it is very down to earth.

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Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Would it be beneficial for a UK university student to study at Groningen (Netherlands) for a year?

Would it be beneficial for a UK university student to study at Groningen (Netherlands) for a year?
Currently on the 1st year of a 3 year bachelors degree. Have the opportunity to go on exchange for 2nd year in Groningen (Holland). I am from England, and the course there is taught in English. I am currently weighing up the pro's and cons of taking my 2nd year of study there.. What do you feel these may be?
Studying Abroad - 1 Answers
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1 :
definitely. any experience overseas will enahnce knowledge, world view, gut feel, new friends. pick up some dutch language, custom, food, lifestyle. many things will change. groningen may not be much as its still a westernized developed country. if u go to a developing or africa or asia - your system will undergo dramatic changes. all pros no cons. just go!

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Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Foreign Exchange student: Netherlands?

Foreign Exchange student: Netherlands?
Im planning to be an exchange student to Netherlands in 11th grade. Do you think i will learn enough Dutch to be fluent? i study the phonetics every day 7 days a week. The conversational part, i only know the basics. Will the kids at school pick on me lol? im a nerd you see. Doing it for a year.
Netherlands - 4 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
If you are willing to speak Dutch and put in some effort you can learn enough to get fluent in a few months. In a year you can be letter perfect if you are young enough. I am not sure you will be able to get fluent, even less perfect, before you come, but that is not needed either. Whatever your language abilities, if they want to pick on you they will find something, if only the colour of your eyes. But being the foreign kid does make it easier not to get picked on. But the Dutch, also at that age, are pretty good English speakers and will help you out when needed. Make sure everybody knows you want to learn Dutch or they will all try to make it easier for you and talk English all the time.
2 :
If you're only doing a foreign exchange for a few weeks, I wouldn't sweat the Dutch part. The kids there will have great fun teaching you anyway .... but having the basics before you go is a great idea, you'll get the chance to put it into practice, and you'll probably be speaking Dutch within a couple of weeks. I would say that you will attract attention simply because you're an exchange student. But don't sweat it, European schoolchildren are accepting of those who are a little different.
3 :
I cannot say how good your Dutch is now but I can tell you that studying a foreign language in school and actually living in a foreign country and speaking that language is really different. But this is a once in a lifetime chance for you to experience life in Holland and to improve your Dutch. Don't be scared, just try your best. Most of the ppl don't expect you to be fluent. When I first went to France, I thought that I could speak French well, but everytime I asked someone a question in French, they would reply in English. As time went on, this happened less and less often. My impression of Dutch ppl is that they as a whole are polite. And there are things that are universal such as male-female attraction. Be sure to dress neatly. No need for skin tight clothes, but leave the baggy shorts and oversized shirts and backwards baseball caps at home. Also, be aware that although Holland is a foreign culture, it is still part of western civilization and is considered a nice country to live in.
4 :
hey don't worry. i'm an expat student at ASH. you'll learn a lot of it in 1 year. my first year i was able to talk in shops and to some dutch people and you also pick it up quickly. what school and i can tell you more. i'm a freshman and my brother is a junior so...

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Saturday, August 28, 2010

Student from The Netherlands wanting an internship at a us company.?


Student from The Netherlands wanting an internship at a us company.?
I am a student in from the Netherland And would like to have an internship at a company in the usa? Could you guys tell me what the best sites are to go to when you want in intership in California.
Other - United States - 2 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
I did a yahoo search with these key words: international internships California I found this website: http://www.usainternship.com/html/intern... Some search engines you can use for your own research are: yahoo.com google.com ask.com dogpile.com Use the key words I have suggested and other keywords you feel may apply. You probably be able to find others as well. Good luck
2 :
Try contacting companies directly. Depending on the industry you are interested in, you may be able to arrange an internship through the Netherlands branch of the company. For example, ABN Amro is well established in Banking in the US and may be able to support this. The US does not generally do internships for students in many industries these days to cut costs, so you need to be persistent. Also, the internship may not support travel and housing, so you may need to figure that into your plans. I believe that many internships are for no pay in Europe, but in the US there may be a modest pay for the intern. Good luck

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Saturday, August 14, 2010

My bf is an exchange student from the Netherlands, hes really homesick, what can i do?


My bf is an exchange student from the Netherlands, hes really homesick, what can i do?
we're 17, hes here for about 6 more months, he says that whenever hes not with me he really feels it, when hes with me it dulls :/ what can i do to help?
Singles & Dating - 2 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Wear a yellow blonde wig and smoke some dope with him. He will think he is home.
2 :
There should be a counsellor appointed for him to monitor this. Have your bf speak to him. otherwise you could contact his embassy for ideas or organise a Dutch/clog party etc or introduce him to the culture of your area so that he is so busy he will be able to manage his homesickness. Being an exchange student is too an important opportunity to miss. You are only limited by your imagination and the help of your friends.

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Saturday, August 7, 2010

What's the cost of a Netherlands Residence permit for a student?


What's the cost of a Netherlands Residence permit for a student?
I'm studying in an exchange program there and can't find the proper info. I'll be there for 6 months... and from one site I saw it says I have to pay around 450 Euros! That's insane... is this really the cost, even for a temporary student?
Netherlands - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
664.41 Euros.
2 :
If you look at the official IND (immigration dept) site then there is a PDF file which details all the current prices http://www.ind.nl/en/Images/0907%20kosten_ENG_tcm6-76140.pdf It depends on the category that you fall into as to the costs (e.g. whether it is officially an exchange program either €433 as a regular (exchange) student or €250 as part of the accelerated program. Follow the wizard on the same site for more details http://www.ind.nl/EN/verblijfwijzer/verblijfwijzer_content.asp?proc=komen&lang=en Exchange programme: – to stay as part of a exchange programme via a private organisation = €433 – to stay as part of a exchange programme via the accelerated procedure = €250 To study: – to study €433 – to study via the accelerated procedure €250 EDIT - regarding the below claims of being local, now that is what I call a "load of trash". It is patently obvious that no-one on this site even exists and they are certainly not Dutch because the cost of a permit does not depend on the area and there is no just thing as a "mayor's" office even if you translate badly from Dutch to English! The links I have given you are from the official immigration dept site which is an official and central body As an ex student advisor for foreign students, I can assure you that it does not get any more official than this..... and certainly a lot better than a site which copies questions from Yahoo Answers and answers them with non-existant people's profiles (again very obvious to someone who is really "local"!)
3 :
Why don't you study in your own country, and come and work in the Netherlands afterwards. There is no charge to work here.

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Sunday, August 1, 2010

What kind of sim card is more suitable for International student studying in the Netherlands?


What kind of sim card is more suitable for International student studying in the Netherlands?
I will need to make international calls and messages. Which service offers a more resonable price with decent communication?
Netherlands - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
On bellen.com you can find the answers. I am afraid it is in Dutch. I would think Chippie would be a good offer for calling on your mobile to abroad. But it depends. Are you thinking of a prepaid card? Or a montly subscription? A prepaid you could consider Hema. I have given a link with calls by mobile to the UK (Verenigd Koninkrijk), but you can choose other countries too USA gives the same cheapest companies. For calling within the Netherlands Telfort would be the cheapest. But Telfort is more expensive if you call to abroad. You can try the belwijzer, (second link below) but the Dutch will be pretty difficult:
2 :
A local SIM card for Netherlands, like the one below:
3 :
lycamobile offers good rates internationally and about the same rates locally(within NL), as compared to competitors http://www.lycamobile.nl/home_eng.htm

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

My bf is an exchange student from the Netherlands, would it be weird to visit him this summer?


My bf is an exchange student from the Netherlands, would it be weird to visit him this summer?
I'm graduating and hes moving back (we're in hs). Would it be weird if i went and spent 2 weeks in the Netherlands with him? I think it would be fun, money isnt really an object either...what do you think?
Singles & Dating - 4 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
i think he might appreciate it a lot
2 :
no why would it be weird?? it seems fine to me he could be happy im guessing
3 :
Aw that's cute do it.
4 :
where are you staying though does he have his own place or ur staying with his family? I think renting a rm would be best but yeah go for it if you have the means to do so.


Wednesday, July 14, 2010

What is the living cost for a student couple in Groningen, Netherlands?

What is the living cost for a student couple in Groningen, Netherlands?
I would like to know more or less which would be the montlhy budget for a couple including rent, food, transportation, etc. I would also like to know the rent for an independant apartment or house that is furnished and includes gas, electricity, etc.I am planning to go there to study and my husband is coming with me. Can somebody give me an idea of montlhy expenses? I do not want personal information, just an idea of an average sum that we would need per month.
Netherlands - 2 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
It's been a few years since I moved away from Groningen .... and the euro has come in since then. If you're prepared to live in one of the outer areas like Beijum or De Wijert, you would be a lot less for accommodation than you would in, say, the Korrewegwijk. I would advise contacting the foreign student accommodation office to help you out with this. You can forget about getting a house, unless you are prepared to go quite far out of the city centre. Generally Groningen is a lot cheaper than Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague or Utrecht.
2 :
This question is quite difficult to answer. There are many types of houses you can rent and the rent depends on the size (apartment vs. 4 bedroom house), location of the property (downtown or suburb), age of the house (brand new or old) etc. Also the type of house has an impact on the utilities bill. A big house requires more gas for heating, for example. I have lived together with my ex-girlfriend in a two bedroom apartment in Maastricht. Maastricht is in the south of the Netherlands, but, on a general scale, it is comparable to Groningen (same nr of inhabitants, same sort of city centre, etc). We had to pay approx. 600 euros for the apartment, 150 euros for water, gas and electricity. 50 euros for internet and taxes such as property taxes, sewer taxes etc. Then we needed some 300 euros to buy food. Totalling 1100 euros for the two of us. Taking into account inflation and some 'safety margins', I think 1200-1300 euros per month is a reasonable guess.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

International student in Netherlands and spouse working status ? ?


International student in Netherlands and spouse working status ? ?
Hi, If I am an international student studying in the Netherlands on a student visa (exchange progeram ), is my spouse (also foreign) eligible for a work permit? Thanks.
Studying Abroad - 1 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
I do not think that this would be the case from outside the European Union. There is no working permit involved. I do not know if you can ask one in the given situation. Many foreigners do deliver newspapers. Perhaps you can get some information about that in the place where you live. Any questions regarding the government or rules in The Netherlands can be asked at the bureau of questions "Postbus 51" They send your question to the right department for immediate answer. Questions can be asked by letter, phone or web-mail (contact page). The site with information about that is: http://www.communicatieplein.nl/Onderwerpen/Wie_doet_wat/Postbus_51_Informatiedienst

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Which is the best student town in The Netherlands?

Which is the best student town in The Netherlands?
I'm thinking of doing a masters in the Netherlands as it is relatively cheap compared to my own country. I'll probably stay away from Rotterdam and Amsterdam because of cost. So I'd love any suggestions on the other University cities themselves, particularly with regards to the quality of student nightlife and whether there are a lot of international students etc. But any information at all is greatly appreciated. Thanks very much for the help!
Studying Abroad - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Utrecht is a student city, there is plenty of cafes in the old town,
2 :
Well Leiden and Delft are popular student cities but also costly and difficult to get accomodation in so you would face the same issues and Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Therefore I would look towards Utrecht (still not really easy to get accomodation) but also especially Groningen which are both thriving student cities.
3 :
Groningen. In the north it is still unspoiled in its isolation from the hectic west. Just big enough to share all sort of provisions, small enough to get to know it and travel about. It has a huge university. Utrecht is a nice town also. Groningen has many cafe's and cultural events. The surroundings are pleasing to spend a day off. I think crime is a problem but on the other hand it was chosen the most courteous of the Netherlands among most bike friendly and best inner-city in the last years. Try birds eye view on Microsofts Virtual Earth to see for yourself and show to your family. For information on the university: http://www.google.nl/search?hl=nl&q=Groningen&as_q=universiteit&btnG=Zoek%C2%A0binnen%C2%A0resultaten