Grand Tour reflection

As the module closed in, I felt overwhelmed with gratitude and appreciation. My experience in Thailand had exceeded every expectation in every aspect that I could have imagined. I leave with a heavy heart and memories that will last me a lifetime. It is difficult to wrap my head around the reality of what I have experienced in the last 10 weeks. In some ways it feels too surreal.

I arrived in Thailand not knowing what to expect, but I left with an enriched life, full of new perspectives, ideologies, traits, passions, knowledge, skillsets, self-discipline, friendships and memories that will last a lifetime and of course a new love for SPICY food.

The best choice and risk I took was to travel alone, as it really took me outside my comfort zone. I learnt a new sense of responsibility and to trust my own instincts and intuition more. When I arrived to the apartment block in a busy street near to the heart of Bangkok, and first met my roommate from Holland, little did I know she would become one of my greatest and best friends! I knew I had made the right decision and this would become a whirlwind of adventures which would set me on the right path.

I completely fell in love, not with a person, but with the moments with these new friends, the stories they shared, the adventures and the laughing we shared and such a diverse combination of cultures and traditions. I completely embraced these moments and made the most of it and it was the biggest highlight of my trip, and some of the best days of my life.

Within Stenden Thailand, the whole classroom experience was incredible from our first introduction lecture (where we all sat with goosebumps of enthusiasm) right until our farewell (where we were wiping the tears from our faces). The lecturers were so welcoming and compatible, and always made an effort to make each class interesting and inspiring. Our classroom dynamics were so lit up and colorful with students from so many different backgrounds, degrees, cultures and home countries, I was always learning something new from our interactions on a daily basis.

School wise my goal was to learn and expand my knowledge on international relations in all aspects of it. Looking back over the last 10 weeks I can definitely see how much I have learnt inside the classrooms, guest speaking lectures and field trips, and how much it has lit a passion within me. I have also been able to use what I have learnt in conversations with others, and my hobbies such as creative blog posting. I can guarantee this module has helped equip me with the skillset and tools that will catapult me in my future career and relations.

One of the most incredible things we did was to learn a new language, and what better than to indulge into a beautiful new culture, by learning their language first-hand.  At first it was really challenging learning Thai, but once we realized how effective it was in earning the Thai peoples respect and appreciation and helping form new friendship bonds it became easier and enjoyable.

One of the most beneficial experiences we had was to learn and practice Model United Nations (MUN), this was how we got to learn exactly how the UN is run and how their decisions are made, this of course was topped off by visiting the many South East Asian UN headquarters where we got to experience how they really operate, and by meeting some of the high profile people who play a part in the UN.

On the other hand, student life in Thailand was amazing, we had so much time to explore Thailand, from sight-seeing the most captivating and jaw-dropping temples throughout the cities, to experiencing the most incredible islands and crystal-clear beaches, attending crazy full-moon parties, to indulging in the most amazing Asian foods, whilst enjoying the tropical weather, we really took advantage of all the opportunities we had.  

With all the new relationships I have formed during this experience, my worldly perspective has become so much broader and it has opened my eyes to so much more, living in Asia humbled and grew me as a person. And I will always be grateful for the life-changing opportunity I was blessed with.

From the moment I started at Stenden University I already decided that I wanted to go on Grand Tour in my third year. I love to travel, discover new cultures and meet new people. Therefore, staying in Leeuwarden was no option for me.

After my amazing experience at the Stenden campus in Qatar, I flew to South Africa. Two different worlds, but in my opinion the greatest combination you can make. I visited South Africa 10 years ago and I can remember that I was amazed by the culture, mentality of the people and the overall vibes. That’s why I came back to South Africa to experience this on an enhanced level.

In my free time I am busy with volunteering at the Peter Pan school in the townships of Port Alfred. It is really impressive but also really thankful work. I really enjoy to play with the children and to go there every Wednesday.

Unfortunately, I broke my hand on the first day I arrived in South Africa but it does not stop me to explore the country. Every weekend we are renting a car and driving to different places around the Eastern and Western Cape. Being integrated in the South African life and making new friends is one of the most valuable aspects of grand tour.

Currently, I am following a minor in Event Management and we are busy organising an event for UFWH (Universities Fighting World Hunger). On this day we will fast for a period of time to create awareness for people who are going to bed on an empty stomach, but also to raise money for the Soup Kitchen in Port Alfred. We will participate with not only all the students of Stenden South Africa but also Stenden Bali, Thailand, Qatar and the Netherlands are participating at the same time.

Hey! My name is Annadyn and I’m studying Media & Entertainment Management at NHL Stenden in Leeuwarden/Holland. I did the minor Event Management 1 at Stenden South Africa. There were several reasons why I choose this minor. One reason was the amazing fieldtrip to Cape Town. I’ve heard from other students that it was very educational and incredibly fun, and they were right! I also choose the minor because it matches my studies, and in the future I would like to work in the event industry or film industry. In addition, I thought it would be very interesting to learn how events are organized, managed, financed and secured etc. with only one goal, making the event a success!

I did the minor at Stenden South Africa and I loved it! The environment is great, the lovely staff, lectures, and students makes your stay at Stenden South Africa unforgettable. The mama’s from the kitchen make you smile everyday and security makes you feel safe and it will feel like your new home in now time. Stenden South Africa is like a small village were you quickly get to know everybody. 

I definitely recommend doing the minor Event Management 1 at Stenden South Africa. Unfortunately, I had to leave earlier than expected due to the coronavirus. Besides that, I had an amazing time and it was an unforgettable experience and I fell in love with the country.