Cristina García, Student ambassador BA European Studies 2024-2025
Cristina is a 2nd year bachelor’s student of European Studies from Spain.
Why did you choose to study European Studies in Maastricht?
Before moving here, I completed my International Baccalaureate. So, it made sense to study abroad. I wanted to experience being more independent and get to know new cultures.
What I liked about European Studies is that it covers a wide range of subjects. You get a solid base in all the subjects related to European Studies. From there you can grow into a specialisation. I considered studying in several places and decided on Maastricht because the quality of the university is very high, and Maastricht has a good student environment.
What do you enjoy most about your studies?
The people! The central location of Maastricht within Europe means that many different nationalities are studying in the same place. This diversity of perspectives ensures that the discussions we have are very enriching. This is not a bubble with the same type of people, but you get to meet lots of different individuals. Of course, most of them are Europeans because we are studying Europe, in Europe after all.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
This is difficult to say because I change my mind regularly. At the moment, I am very interested in transatlantic affairs, specifically the relationship between Europe and the United States. And within that subject, I want to focus on security and defence. The best place for me to work would be NATO or external affairs of the EU.
How do you like living in Maastricht?
Coming from Spain, I don’t like the weather, ha-ha! But I appreciate that it’s a safe place. It’s relatively small, but it still has a lot of things to do. Also, I took part in a student basketball competition last year. My favourite spot in town? Café Forum. Every Monday evening, they play live jazz, which I love.