“Out of all the countries I did my research on, the Netherlands stood out the most for me”

Why did you choose to study in the Netherlands?
When I was a kid, I had this dream of living abroad. More than just visiting new places, I have always wanted to try blending in with the locals. After much deliberation, I considered pursuing a master’s degree in another country would be fitting for my life goal and realizing my childhood dream. I knew that I wanted to study management, so I looked up related programs in countries that offered full scholarships. Out of all the countries that I did my research on, the Netherlands stood out the most for me. I have never been to Europe before and luckily the Netherlands is located right at the heart of it.

The further I dug, the more attracted I was to this country: most of the people are able to speak English so it would be easier for me to communicate with people, the progressiveness of people’s mindset, and beautiful cities I needed to visit! From there on, I set my mind so I could obtain my master’s degree in the Netherlands.

Why did you choose the Master in Management at MSM?
I received a Bachelor degree in Pharmacy back in 2019 and then worked for a year in business development for a medical device company. Even though I found my job interesting, I felt like I was lacking knowledge in some parts of my work. Interestingly, I had also become fonder of the business side. Hence, I thought studying management for my masters would be great to support my career. By pursuing this degree, I can further advance my career, apply for positions and companies I admire, and eventually looking to establish my own business.
MSM offers various programs including the Master in Management, which is open to people with non-business backgrounds. I was intrigued by the idea of joining a class of people with diverse cultural and knowledge backgrounds. I had the thought that one year would be very short hence it would be very intensive. On the other side, it makes it an effective program and I can directly dive into the business world after finishing the studies.

What was your first reaction when you heard you were one of the talented students who were accepted for the Orange Tulip Scholarship?
To be honest, I did not expect it at all. I was already turned down from a full scholarship so I thought I would not have a chance with the Orange Tulip Scholarship as well. However, an email came to me saying I was one of the awardees of this scholarship and I was just so grateful! In a way, it felt reassuring to me: that I am capable of achieving things I have always doubted I could do. It also felt very satisfying to know the effort I put in writing the motivation letter, making the introduction video, and applying very early actually paid off.

I am learning more about myself: my personality, how I interact with people, my boundaries, etc. I can say apart from knowledge, the program also gives me more room to grow as a person.

Can you share your experience in the program so far?
Soon, I will be halfway into my one-year program. To say that it has been a roller coaster ride would sound cliché, but it’s true. Having to study again after a year of working takes mental preparation. To add, this is not a continuation of my Bachelor degree so I have to learn some things right from the basics. Luckily, bits from my working experience helped me in some of the courses I already successfully completed. The most challenging but interesting part is the group work. Due to our different cultures, we have different perspectives in approaching issues. Of course, where there are differences there are bound to be conflicts. However, it also introduces me to new points of view and challenges me to think differently. Furthermore, I am learning more about myself: my personality, how I interact with people, my boundaries, etc. I can say apart from knowledge, the program also gives me more room to grow as a person.

How do you experience your life as an international student in Maastricht so far?
It was a struggle for me in the beginning because there were so many things, I have to re-introduce myself to: meeting new people after a year and a half of limited human interaction caused by the pandemic, having to have a student mindset again and doing all the course work, and settling in as a newcomer in the country. Despite all the challenges, I have found it to be invigorating. In a way, it feels nice to be in a different situation on my own as I can finally be more in tune with myself. It is as if I am starting a new chapter of my life. Yes, I do miss my friends and family back home – and don’t get me started on Indonesian food! However, Maastricht is such a beautiful city filled with friendly people. I have made lovely friends and gone sightseeing to cities and countries, so the work-life balance is maintained. More and more, Maastricht is becoming another home to me.

Chase your dreams while you can, whatever they are!

What advice would you like to give to future students who are currently thinking about applying for the Orange Tulip Scholarship at MSM?
Believe in yourself! If you have always thought you never had a chance in getting a scholarship or if you have been let down previously, don’t be afraid to try it again. Dig deep and find out what makes you special – but you don’t have to look too hard because it could already be there all along. If you need assistance, ask your friends or families to help you because sometimes other people can see what you don’t, and it can help you a lot. Last but not least, chase your dreams while you can, whatever they are! Don’t let other people’s opinions make you change your path; you are the one on the steering wheel so it is up to you how you want to drive.

Would you like to join the Master in Management in September 2022? Please click here for more information about the program and the available scholarships, including the Orange Tulip Scholarship.