A new school, a new study programme, a new class, and for some students, even a whole new country. The first 100 days at HZ are exciting, challenging, but also fun! You'll dive into your program, get to know your classmates better, and make your student room a new home. Student Kristýna shares her experience during her first 100 days at HZ.
In September 2025, Kristýna started not only a new study programme, but a whole new life! For her Global Project and Change Management study programme at HZ, she moved from the Czech Republic to Zeeland. She arrived in Middelburg without her suitcases, having forgotten them at home, but she was immediately welcomed with open arms. Other students took care of her and lent her clothes until her suitcases arrived in Middelburg. "The community here is so strong," says Kristýna. "I was pleasantly surprised." Plenty of international students live on the APV campus who are also far from home. Together, they are creating a new home in Zeeland.
The most important thing I've found here is the people.
The weather was beautiful during Kristýna's first few weeks in Zeeland. She explored the area around Middelburg and Vlissingen on her new bike. She went to the beach with friends and swam in the sea, took long walks along the meadows, and went on a run through Middelburg's old town. Wherever she went, Kristýna felt welcome, even though she doesn't speak Dutch yet. People appreciate it if you know a few words of Dutch, but they're also perfectly willing to speak English. "I'm so grateful that I can study here," says Kristýna.
But it's not always easy to study in a new country. At first, Kristýna doubted whether she wanted to continue her studies. Everything was different and that was very overwhelming. But through the support of the friends she made here, Kristýna gained more and more confidence in herself to continue with her studies. "The most important thing I've found here is the people," says Kristýna. Not just her friends, but also her teachers who encourage and support her. "I don't take it for granted," she says. "And I give back whenever and wherever I can."
Global Project and Change Management
Do you aspire to contribute to a more sustainable world? The Global Project and Change Management study programme will teach you how to identify, set-up and lead sustainable projects focussed on complex global issues.
Read more about this study programme