1. Flexibility is their key - whatever you ask, as long as it is doable and not illegal - the university administration will do it for you. The flexibility of their mind in understanding your unique situation, the willingness to co-operate with you are some qualities of Dutch people that you will cherish

2. Strive for SUN - those few days in summer when the sun shines, expect your Dutch classmates not anywhere near your class. They are out with some beer, lying on open grounds - getting their annual supply of Vitamin D, if not the nice tan. ‘It’s sunny outside” is a viable excuse that can work if you want your lecture to end sooner.

3. Get used to BREAD - Even if you hated eating bread in your home country, you will like it here. I mean, you have to. It is survival and yes, it is an acquired taste!

4. Nothing is ab-normal - Whether it be everyone wearing weird orange costumes or renting a student house even if they have family in Holland - everything is possible and perfectly normal. Stop judging and experience how crazily different life can be in different parts of the world.

5. Love life as they do - This is something I’ve learnt living in the Netherlands for two years - no matter what you age is, no matter how much problem and stress you have in your life: enjoy every moment of your life. Go biking, have a glass of beer, talk the problems out, laugh at the jokes and smile in every chance you get.

With all these wise advices, I now say goodbye to my readers in Cursor. Good luck with your life and studies in the Netherlands and keep reading Cursor!