Study Abroad and Domestic Study Away

I spent my semester abroad studying at Leiden University, in the Netherlands. Between living in the city of Leiden and taking classes in The Hague, the academic excellence and the proximity to important international institutions were my favorite aspects of the program - and the reason why I chose it in the first place. As an International Relations and Economics major, I was extremely appreciative of the opportunity to take a course taught by a former ICTY prosecutor, attend a lecture given by the president of the ICC, and watch an ICC judgement delivery. Since I consider attending law school after college, with a particular interest in international law, this semester was crucial for me to better understand the profession, get advice, and learn as much as I could about international law.

Moreover, I had the chance to learn a lot about Dutch culture. From getting a bike to dealing with constant bureaucracy, I had to adapt to many norms that are very different from my own culture. Fortunately, I had great professors and peers to help me with that. Also, while Dutch food is far from being my favorite, I appreciated olliebollen, bitterballen, and Dutch beer. Ultimately, even though I was not able to learn much Dutch, I learned interesting aspects of Dutch culture.

My location also allowed me to travel within the Netherlands and to nearby countries, such as Scotland and France, and to use my study abroad semester to rest. From the start, I knew I wanted my semester abroad to allow me both leisure and time for idleness, which I wanted not only for my own care but also for me to be able to reflect on my academic and professional futures. As a junior, this time for reflection was a much appreciated privilege. The ease of travel within western Europe gave me the opportunity to enjoy a lot of this time getting to know different places and visiting other friends studying abroad.