Julio Benedetti
27 Aug 2010
Master in Tourism Destination Management, NHTV Breda University of Applied Sciences.
Why the Netherlands?
After obtaining my bachelor's degree in tourism in Brazil, I started working, but the idea of doing a European master's programme in Tourism was always on my mind. I consulted the list of TedQual institutions on the World Tourism Organization website and was happy to find a renowned Dutch institution (NHTV Breda).
I have always had a sympathy for the Netherlands and this master's was perfect, exactly what I was looking for. I applied for a HSP Huygens scholarship and was really honoured and glad to be selected.
A real Dutch experience
I had visited the Netherlands once, many years ago, so I thought I already had an idea about it. But living in a Dutch environment, among Dutch and international students and trying to learn the language, was a very different situation than being on holiday.
It was definitely harder, but also more interesting and rewarding!
Learning to adjust to and appreciate new teaching methods
I realized that the teaching methods were very interesting and very different from my home country. During my master's programme, I was encouraged by the lecturers to speak up, to discuss and to critically analyze books, concepts, lectures and so on.
They triggered me to reflect instead of blindly accepting ready-made ideas. I also learned how to communicate effectively, how to debate and be persuasive, but also how to accept other people's arguments and ideas in order to reach a final consensus. This is something I consider “very Dutch” and very positive.
Student life
I wake up, have coffee in a nearby Dutch bakery and then cycle to my University, depending on the lectures’ schedule. I try to have a coffee during every break, because I like Dutch koffie. When my school day is over I go back home, relax, prepare some food and do the things that need to be prepared, such as assignments.
On Fridays, of course, I go out with friends. When the weather is nice and sunny we meet at the park or in the city centre. I also meet them at night in the many pubs and bars, especially on weekends.
Dutch diary
Although initially I was overwhelmed by the tight schedules – Dutch students are always busy! – I learned how to plan my week and how not to waste time and be more efficient. All thanks to my Dutch diary.
