The Journey

The challenge

Several studies and surveys show that about 75% of the international students in the Netherlands don't feel at home and feel excluded. Lack of contact with Dutch peers plays a significant role here. Next to this, international students have a hard time living through the transition from living abroad to living and studying in The Netherlands. This includes difficulties with getting accommodation and access to possibilities as student unions (sororities). Most international students feel left out, uninformed, and are often not aware of the many possibilities in the Netherlands.

The solution

I would like to develop an app that facilitates the transition mentioned above. With this app, international students receive relevant information and get in contact with other students. This will result in a more positive experience for international students in The Netherlands. The app focuses on the possibilities for the student, with an eye on meeting new people, and information that helps international students to close the gap with the Dutch students. The app will be an interactive format to keep it dynamic and accurate. Furthermore, Dutch parties (university, housing, sororities, students) are on their turn invited to close the gap and approach the international students in an interactive and positive way.