Tho Thi

"As a second-year Global Studies student, I have enjoyed learning about the intricacies of global issues through diverse disciplinary lenses. 

Additionally, the PBL approach has been particularly instrumental in fostering open discussions, which allows me to gain insights from the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of my peers. This not only enhances our understanding but also encourages critical thinking, making the learning experience more dynamic and engaging. 

I also appreciate the holistic approach of my programme, which integrates both qualitative and quantitative methods. This prepares me comprehensively for future research. 

Beyond academics, Maastricht University provides ample opportunities for active involvement in improving student life and contributing meaningfully to our community, whether through participation in student and academic associations or by serving as student representatives."

Thanh Pham

"Before coming to Maastricht, I found the programme suitable to me as it has many dimensions that interest me and I haven’t found this combination in other programmes. 

The more I work with UM, the more I like it. The admission was straight forward, and I love the admission site where I upload my documents. To be honest, it is the best admission site among all the schools I applied for. When I needed support during my application, I always received an email with an answer the next day. After one semester here, there is one thing know for sure when it comes to UM: I will always have support. Which is an important aspect for international students like me who are not familiar with a lot of things in the Netherlands.

So far, I am really enjoying my time here at UM. I feel that I am cared for by others, especially within the programme. Our feedback is welcome and the programme does take actions towards improving the courses based on our feedback. 

The Problem-Based Learning system is pretty new to me, but I really enjoy the tutorials. My tutorial groups in the last semester, including the tutor, brought me a warm atmosphere where I felt comfortable to share my opinion. 

Also, Maastricht is a lovely city. After traveling to many other cities in the Netherlands, I really find Maastricht to be the right choice. It has a rich historical vibe which I love, as well as a vibrant student life. The hustle and living pace here are just perfect to me. And Maastricht is perfectly located for travelling."

Simbiat Oladoja

"My journey at UM began when I embarked on a quest to find a course that seamlessly blended my passions for food, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This quest led me to the master's in Health Food Innovation Management, a unique programme that stands out as one of its kind globally. The decision to move to the Netherlands was significant, but the experience has been amazing. I've embraced the culture, the sometimes rainy weather (which, oddly, I've grown fond of), and most importantly, the delightful snacks. Limburgse vlaai and stroopwafels have become such favourites that I even allocate a monthly budget for them!

UM's approach to education, particularly Problem-Based Learning (PBL), initially seemed unfamiliar, but the Pre-Academic Training (PAT) provided an excellent foundation. Due to this training, serving as the chair for the first PBL session was made easier, and it's been incredible to witness how PBL has improved my academic skills and cultivated my ability to engage better in group discussions and critical thinking.

The interdisciplinary nature of the study programmes has been a highlight, allowing me to delve into various fields. Among the standout courses was 'European Food Law in a Global Context', which sparked a newfound interest in food law. This aspect of the programme emphasises leveraging laws and their role in ensuring food safety and trade.

One particularly memorable experience during my study was participating in the Dutch Ecotrophelia Challenge during the 'New Product Development' course. Collaborating with my team, we developed a healthy and sustainable product called 'ReVeg': a vegetable broth powder made from vegetable side streams. It was also a good networking experience during the competition, and I could interact with students from other Dutch universities and witness inspiring ideas first-hand.

The Brightlands campus stood out as a pinnacle of innovation and collaboration. Visiting more recently, I was struck by the synergistic impact of bringing science, food, and business together. The opportunities presented by the Brightlands campus are undoubtedly transformative, offering a space where ideas can truly change the world.

I am currently immersed in my research thesis at PECTCOF, a company located at the Brightlands campus. Here, they specialise in producing ingredients from upcycled coffee pulp, a truly innovative product with vast potential applications across various sectors, particularly food. My journey to this project stemmed from one of my courses when I wrote an individual paper on food waste valorisation. Writing this paper ignited a newfound passion for delving deeper into the sector, especially considering the growing importance of upcycling food waste in shaping the global food system.

It's remarkable how, amidst the array of companies, I found one aligning perfectly with my area of interest. Applying for an internship role at PECTCOF was a natural progression, and being selected was gratifying.

What truly sets Brightlands apart is its ability to foster close networking spaces that bridge the gap between academia and industry. This collaborative environment facilitates knowledge exchange and nurtures partnerships that drive innovation forward. Coming from Nigeria, where such integrative ecosystems are rare, I'm particularly impressed by the potential impact of replicating this model across different regions worldwide. Establishing institutes like Brightlands in other regions across the globe could catalyse positive change and innovation on a global scale.

Moreover, I have developed a profound love for the Netherlands and the friendly nature of the Dutch people. Their warmth and openness have made my transition smoother and enriched my experience.

My experience so far at UM has been nothing short of transformative. It has equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to make a meaningful impact in health food innovation and beyond."

  Read the Brightlands interview with Simbiat (and Liza Salhoub)

Mohammad Daud

"The master’s in Biobased Materials is beyond my expectations, which I had as an applicant.

While applying to this programme, I knew that it is taught inside the Brightlands Chemelot Campus. But the high level of collaborations and exposure to innovations I am experiencing here is just incredible.

The Problem-Based Learning (PBL) structure of education here at UM is transforming my perception that learning is not necessarily vertical (from professors and tutors). It is wondrous that I am acquiring a lot of skills and knowledge horizontally (from my classmates and peers). I am amazed by this idea of PBL and the efforts to create a truly diverse study group to enhance the learning experience."

   Read the Brightlands interview with Mohammad

Liza Salhoub

"My journey at Maastricht University (UM), thanks to the Brightlands Talent Scholarship, has been nothing short of transformative. Nestled in the charming town of Venlo, I've found not just an academic institution but a warm and welcoming community that feels like home.

The unique Problem-Based Learning (PBL) system adopted by UM has been a revelation. It's more than just learning theories; it's about applying them to real-world scenarios, fostering practical thinking that's invaluable for my future in global supply chain management. The collaborative nature of PBL has not only enhanced my understanding of the subject matter but also honed my teamwork and communication skills. Through Brightlands, I had the opportunity to work with an innovative company that transforms coffee cherries into valuable bio-compounds used in food ingredient production, providing me with a unique hands-on experience.

Living in the Netherlands has opened up a world of exploration. From Venlo's cozy streets to the vibrant culture of Maastricht, every corner has offered enriching experiences. The scholarship has not only relieved financial burdens but also empowered me to make the most of my academic journey.

In essence, my time at UM has been a blend of academic rigour, personal growth, and cultural immersion. I'm grateful for the opportunities and support I've received, and I'm confident that the skills and knowledge I'm acquiring here will shape a successful future in the ever-changing field of supply chain management."

  Read the Brightlands interview with Liza (and Simbiat Oladoja)

Leena Al-Hazmi

Immersed in the world of imaging engineering, where my studies connect chemistry to electronics

"I am Leena, a master's student at Maastricht University (UM), fortunate to hold the Brightlands Talent Scholarship. 

My journey at UM has been incredibly fulfilling, offering a blend of diverse experiences and exciting opportunities. I am still in my first year, and my experience with practical labs in my programme has been a highlight, allowing me to perform MRIs, spectroscopy, and construct an optical microscope. All this has added fascinating dimensions to my learning that I could never have imagined. 

The unique learning approach at UM, Problem-Based Learning, has significantly improved my understanding of course materials, fostering better retention compared to traditional lecturing methods. It has also honed my critical thinking and teamwork skills. 

All of this unfolds in Maastricht, a beautiful, serene city away from the bustling crowds of big cities, with a vibrant campus and a diverse community."
 

  Read the Brightlands interview with Leena

Gabriel Domingues Gonçalves

"I remember the first time I entered the Brightlands Chemelot Campus. The first thing I saw was a huge cooling tower (the one we always think is from a nuclear power plant). It was very impactful for my life, as for the first time since I had started studying, I felt part of something bigger. 

This was still when I was in my bachelor's, enrolled at a Brazilian University, and I came to one of the campus’ companies for an internship. It was then that I got to know Maastricht University and the master's programme in Biobased Materials. I knew I would be able to accomplish so much, when staying here. So I applied for the master's programme and was awarded a Brightlands Talent Scholarship. 

Saying that this scholarship has changed my life is a bit of an understatement. The professional growth I have experienced during the programme is much beyond my initial expectations, and much of it is related to the programme being taught at the Brightlands Campus. Besides, of course, studying with amazing professors, the connection between the university and the companies of the campus allows for an almost endless number of opportunities. For instance, currently, I am working as an intern at another company at Brightlands, as part of my final thesis research project. 

What I really like here is the shared interest in sustainability, among basically the whole campus, which has always been one of my biggest motivations and what I want to commit to as a professional. 

Beyond professional growth, I also enjoy the Netherlands and Europe a lot. I had the opportunity to make many different friends from various nationalities and backgrounds, which is really different from what I could do in Brazil. Living this exchange of cultures really thrills me. Also, traveling, one of my strongest passions, is very easy around Europe. I feel very happy and realised both personally and professionally here and definitely see myself staying a little longer after graduating. 

I am very grateful for the opportunities I had as a UM student and as a Brightlands resident, and I think the most important thing is how it prepared me for a future that looks really exciting."

Anton Changalidi

"I am a student with a diverse background in data science and software development, focusing on projects involving genomic data processing and the incorporation of Natural Language Processing (NLP) methods into healthcare solutions.

Everything started two years ago when I decided I wanted to study in Europe – since it is a great opportunity for me to communicate with scientists and other professionals from all over the world without difficulties. Maastricht was one of the few places that offered not only good programmes in Data Science but also generous funding opportunities.
I applied, and everything went smoothly during my interview. In April 2023, when I received my acceptance letter, my journey started!

What I like about my study programme is that its duration is two years. So I had the whole year for studies and small research projects, and I did not have to think about my master’s thesis. 

For the first half year, I dedicated myself to studying, and now I am also involved in different activities. I participated in a hackathon by the bank 'Bunq' in Amsterdam, where I applied the knowledge and experiences I received from NLP courses here. I will also participate in the conference ByteMAL, organised by UM, and in the Sciencepreneurship Summer School at the end of April, where I hope to enhance my practical skills and make a lot of new connections!

Last, but not least, are trips and adventures: for the past year, I had several trips to Belgium, Germany, Andorra, Spain, and all over the Netherlands. I like living in the (almost) middle of Europe!"

  Read the Brightlands interview with Anton

Sara Graña Miraballes

"Maastricht is such a welcoming home for students all over the world, and I feel like I have made the right choice by coming here to pursue my master’s degree.

I particularly feel privileged to be part of the Brightlands community at Chemelot Campus. The fact that the Biobased Materials programme takes place at Chemelot is extremely unique and advantageous. Being in close contact with companies that are working on the most innovative ideas in the field of biobased materials enhances the learning experience of the programme. Everybody on the campus is committed to working towards sustainability, whether it’s through research or the production of innovative products.

The emphasis on student-led research is a significant part of the programme’s approach. I got the opportunity to carry out research on the extraction of bioactive compounds from agricultural waste, as a way towards water valorisation. It is worth mentioning  that the small size of the programme adds value to the learning experience, which made it easy to connect with professors. They genuinely cared for my progress throughout the programme.

During the second year, I will get to develop my thesis project on the Life Cycle Assessment of a biobased product at one of the companies at Chemelot. This experience will be extremely enriching, directing me towards my dream workplace and possible companies I could envision myself working at."

Taisia Pimenova

"I’m a master’s student in Artificial Intelligence, and thanks to the UM Brightlands Talent Scholarship, I have the opportunity to be a part of an exciting academic journey at Maastricht University, in the heart of Europe.

During my time at Maastricht University, the most constant feeling I had was a deep curiosity and a drive to learn as much as possible, even in areas that were completely new or complex to me. This was largely thanks to the project-based approach of my department and the university. Whether working independently or in a team, we were encouraged to tackle challenging and often unconventional problems. 

Individual projects gave me the freedom to explore my own ideas - from improving metrics in Reinforcement Learning tasks to optimising search algorithms. 

In group projects, the diversity of backgrounds among team members led to great combinations of research and implementation strategies, resulting in innovative solutions. 

This style of learning, alongside lectures, not only gave me the freedom to use state-of-the-art techniques but also taught me to think without limits.

I am truly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, and I’m excited to apply everything Maastricht University has taught me with great passion and commitment!"

Esra Atak

"I am Esra, currently pursuing a master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences at Maastricht University as a UM Brightlands Talent Scholarship awardee. My academic journey began with a degree in Dietetics, followed by a master’s in Nutrition Science, where I specialised in non-communicable diseases. At the time, I was already working as a researcher in Helsinki, focusing on childhood nutrition and physical health. I never imagined I would pursue a second master’s degree, until my curiosity took me deeper.

As I continued my research, I became increasingly fascinated by the underlying mechanisms of diseases and the complex systems that govern the human body. I realised that to make a lasting impact in the field of health sciences, I needed a broader, more interdisciplinary education. That realisation led me to Maastricht University, a place I had long admired for its innovative Biomedical Sciences programme and its unique Problem-Based Learning approach, which puts students at the centre of their education. I knew this was the environment that would make learning a joy rather than just a means to pass exams.

Receiving the Brightlands Talent Scholarship has enriched my experience even further. It has offered me opportunities that go far beyond the academic setting, from valuable networking connections to access to world-class facilities. It has expanded my perspective and deepened my professional engagement in ways I never anticipated.

Now, having completed my first year, I can confidently say that choosing Maastricht University and becoming part of the Brightlands ecosystem has been one of the best decisions of my life. The academic rigor, the professionalism of the faculty, and the high-quality curriculum have all exceeded my expectations.

In the upcoming year, I will begin my internship with one of the companies at the Brightlands Health Campus, where I will be focusing on the gut-brain axis, an area I am incredibly passionate about. Being part of this inspiring community has been a deeply rewarding experience. The Brightlands Scholarship has not only supported my academic growth but has also opened doors to a lifetime of professional development and collaboration. It has given me a platform to grow, to connect, and to contribute meaningfully to the future of health and life sciences."

Aruzhan Kuztayeva

“Growing up in a small city in northern Kazakhstan, studying abroad - let alone in the Netherlands - felt like an impossible dream. In 2020, I started preparing my application for a scholarship but soon gave up, convinced that such opportunities were only for people with extraordinary intelligence or achievements.

Everything changed last year. It was a time of self-reflection and growth that taught me the importance of believing in myself. I realised that success is not about being perfect - it is about working hard, staying committed, and trusting your own strengths. This shift in mindset motivated me to try again, and I am so glad I did. 

Today, I’m living my dream by studying 'Media Studies: Digital Cultures' at Maastricht University. The practical, hands-on approach combined with Problem-Based Learning makes the programme both holistic and engaging. So far, I have recorded a podcast, experimented with analog media, and created a digital application as part of a design-thinking project with my group mates. 

Beyond academics, I became a social media ambassador for my programme and started working as a research assistant on a research communication project at my Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. These experiences are shaping my knowledge in the field and preparing me for an exciting career ahead.

None of this would have been possible without the NL-High Potential Scholarship. It opened doors I once thought were firmly closed and proved that dreams can come true with perseverance and belief in oneself. To anyone considering applying: don’t underestimate what you are capable of achieving.”

Aruzhan's LinkedIn

Abdelrahman Abourida

"My life changed completely on the 26th of March, 2025, and I remember that day vividly. I received an email saying I had been awarded the NL High Potential Scholarship. As soon as I got that notification, I FaceTimed my mom, and the emotion on her face, the tears of joy, the shaken voice still live in my mind to this day, making me realise the magnitude of this fantastic opportunity that I, a random Egyptian, had been privileged by. 

I entered the MA Arts and Culture: Modern Political Culture programme wanting to study the discursive powers that shape how we perceive reality. We haven’t only explored that aspect, but also examined it from a wide array of disciplines, making this programme an interdisciplinary joyride that is expanding my academic toolkit by the day! Best of all, I have also been voted to be the student representative for my programme, and picked by the university to be its social media ambassador, a truly amazing honour! 

PBL classes in the Modern Political Culture specialisation are a delightful melting pot of people from diverse upbringings, nationalities, and cultures, elevating the learning experience to a whole new level! I have genuinely learned something from all the different people I have interacted with in class!"

Abdelrahman's LinkedIn

Abenezer Tarekegne Legesse

"During my time working as a physician in my home country, Ethiopia, at the height of the COVID19 pandemic, my passion for understanding diseases on a broader scale was ignited. While I valued the hands-on impact of clinical work, I found myself increasingly drawn to the bigger picture—researching the patterns and causes of diseases to help the community at a larger scale. This realisation led me to pivot my career towards epidemiology and public health.

I aspired to pursue advanced studies and, while exploring opportunities, came across the UM NL-High Potential Scholarship. Its focus on rewarding outstanding academic achievement set it apart, so I decided to apply to the UM-FHML Department of Epidemiology. When I received the acceptance letter, it felt like a turning point—a validation of my hard work over the years.

What excites me most about pursuing my studies at Maastricht University is its Problem-Based Learning (PBL) system. This approach emphasises active learning, collaboration, and critical thinking—values that align with my experience in the clinical scenarios I have been exposed to and the problem-solving mindset I have developed during my journey.

As I take strides towards my dreams here in Maastricht, I carry the experiences and lessons of my journey with me. My hope is not only to advance knowledge in epidemiology but also to inspire others from underrepresented regions to chase their academic dreams, no matter how challenging the path may seem." 

Abenezer's Linkedin

Rainer Pier Paolo Ambrocio

"My name is Rainer, and I am originally from the Philippines. I am currently enrolled in the Master in Governance and Leadership in European Public Health at the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences at Maastricht University. Studying at Maastricht University has been a highly rewarding academic and personal experience, characterised by intellectual rigour, international diversity, and a strong focus on real-world public health challenges.

The programme provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective on public health governance, leadership, and policy-making, with particular attention to European and global contexts. The curriculum successfully combines theoretical foundations with applied policy analysis, enabling students to critically engage with complex public health issues and governance structures. Throughout the programme, I have developed strong analytical and leadership skills that are directly relevant to future careers in public health policy, research, and international institutions.

A distinctive and particularly valuable aspect of my experience has been Maastricht University’s Problem-Based Learning (PBL) system. Through small-group tutorials, PBL encourages active participation, independent preparation, and collaborative learning. This approach has enhanced my critical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills, while also fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the learning process. The opportunity to work closely with peers from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds has further enriched discussions and broadened my global perspective on public health.

Overall, Maastricht University offers a supportive and inclusive environment for international students, supported by engaged faculty and strong academic guidance. My experience in the Master in Governance and Leadership in European Public Health has been both academically challenging and personally transformative, and it has equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to contribute meaningfully to public health leadership and policy in an international context."

Rainer's LinkedIn

Tania Micaela Pineda Gonzalez

""What if you get a 'yes'?" This question has been my inspiration over the last few years, helping me achieve dreams I once thought were out of reach. While the fear of rejection is always there, I’ve learned to focus on the alternative: what if, against all odds, you are accepted into your dream opportunity?

Coming from Ecuador, I became fascinated by the intersection of law and emerging technologies the moment I discovered the field. I saw not only the great opportunities it offers but also the complex challenges it poses to society. Because specialized programs in this niche are rare, Maastricht University stood out immediately. Its curriculum, particularly the focus on the technical aspects of AI, was exactly what I was looking for. Since joining, the Faculty of Law has continued to inspire me through the expertise of its professors.

The Problem-Based Learning (PBL) system was a new concept for me, and I find UM’s application of it fascinating. It allows us to approach case law practically, bridging the gap between theoretical discussion and real-world scenarios to ensure the knowledge truly sticks. Furthermore, gaining technical skills like basic Python has been invaluable. Understanding how technology works from the inside out is essential for regulating it effectively and maintaining a truly critical perspective."

Tania's LinkedIn

Nanuka Simonishvili

"I am currently pursuing the Advanced Master’s programme in Intellectual Property Law and Knowledge Management (IPKM) at the Faculty of Law. Coming from Georgia, studying abroad was always something I hoped for but never truly expected, so receiving the UM NL High Potential Scholarship and continuing my education independently in the Netherlands has been a significant step for me.

Intellectual property law has always motivated my academic journey, which is why the IPKM programme immediately stood out to me. Learning alongside students with both legal and technical backgrounds has challenged the way I approach familiar issues and helped me see them from different perspectives. I also value the flexibility of elective courses, as well as expert guest lectures, networking opportunities, and client consulting projects, which allow me to engage directly with professionals and better understand how academic knowledge translates into real-world practice.

Beyond academics, Maastricht is a wonderful place to live and explore. Its location makes travelling across Europe accessible, and discovering new places with new friends has become one of the best ways to relax and fully enjoy this experience. Maastricht University, together with the UM NL High Potential Scholarship Committee, has given me not only a strong academic foundation for my future, but also confidence, independence, and an inspiring environment to grow both professionally and personally."

Nanuka 's LinkedIn

Ananda Bajric

"Thanks to the Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship, I am able to pursue the Research Master in Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience - specialisation Neuropsychology.

UM is the most intellectually stimulating institution I've studied at so far, and its Problem-Based Learning approach has contributed immensely to my academic and personal development.

Additionally, as UM emphasises collaboration rather than competition, my learning experience has been informed by my enthusiastic classmates with whom I continuously share and discover new insights." 

Ananda's LinkedIn

Leia Bulgakova

"Receiving the scholarship to pursue a research master's in Cognitive Neuroscience has truly been a dream come true for me. Even now, I can’t believe my luck. After moving from Uzbekistan to Russia in search of better education, I still felt like I was endlessly seeking a community that truly fit me. This scholarship has allowed me to find that place.

The welcoming environment and compassionate community here make the engaging programme even more enjoyable. The knowledge and skills I acquire here feel like essential steps toward conducting my research and becoming the scientist I aspire to be. The Problem-Based Learning approach turned out to be a good fit for my learning style as well.

I am forever grateful for this incredible journey and the wonderful support I’ve received along the way. This opportunity has not only fulfilled my academic aspirations but also given me the sense of belonging I had been searching for."

Leia's LinkedIn

Mariana Gouvea

“Coming from Brazil to the Netherlands to pursue a Master's degree in Biobased Materials was a big dream for me. Thanks to the NL-High Potential Scholarship, this dream could come true. I am delighted to be living here and grateful for all the places and people I have met. 

My master's programme is made up of people from different nationalities and backgrounds, and it is not even possible to tell how much I have learned from them. Problem-Based Learning exposed me to a new way of learning, with a lot of challenges, but also proved to be a great opportunity to prepare me for my future goals. Along with this, all the practical classes and hands-on experience offered to us have taken me to the next level. 

I am happy to see how much I have grown academically and personally and, more than that, that I have found a second home here!”

Mariana's LinkedIn

Sebastián Ayala Ruano

"I completed my bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology Engineering with a subspecialisation in Software Engineering in Ecuador. While looking for a master's programme, I discovered that Systems Biology at Maastricht University provided the ideal combination of both fields. However, the costs of studying abroad were beyond my reach, so I applied for financial assistance. Receiving the UM NL-High Potential Scholarship made my dream of studying Systems Biology possible.

Studying at UM has been an incredible journey. I liked the project- and problem-based learning (PBL) methodology, the high-quality research institutes, and the university’s international orientation. PBL encouraged me to become an active learner, improved my communication skills, and appreciated diverse viewpoints from my classmates. Being in such a multicultural environment allowed me to expand my horizons and build friendships with people from around the world. Living abroad also fostered my personal growth, as I adapted to an independent life, far away from family and friends.

I will be forever grateful for the opportunities this scholarship offered and will remember these past few years as one of the best experiences of my life."

Sebastián's LinkedIn

Tetiana Krupka

"I am currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Sustainability Science, Policy and Society at SBE. The Netherlands was my desired study destination; although I was not awarded a scholarship on my first attempt, I was successful the second time and am so proud now to be part of the UM NL High-Potential community. I am from Ukraine, where for four years we have been fighting for independence, and studying here has given me the opportunity to meet people who genuinely support my country and people.

Problem-Based Learning was a new experience for me and required stepping outside my comfort zone, as my previous education was based on traditional learning methods. Through this approach, I improved skills in active participation, communication and discussion facilitation.

Thanks to the scholarship, I became a part of the SCOPE Association and UNSA, attended Maastricht Business Days, and participated in the Master’s Open Day, where I presented my study programme.

A scholarship is not only financial support; it is about incredible experiences, friends all around the world, and significant professional and personal growth.

I am infinitely grateful for the opportunities and people this scholarship has given me, and this experience will be in my memory forever."

Tetiana's LinkedIn

Juan Soto

"I'm currently pursuing a master's in Public Policy and Human Development at Maastricht University and UNU-MERIT. The NL High Potential Scholarship gave me the incredible opportunity to continue my education and learn from experts about tackling the pressing issues our world faces using evidence-based methods and data.

In the future, I want to develop research at the intersection of psychology and policy that can genuinely help minority groups reach their full potential through interventions that build their confidence and create the opportunities they need to succeed.

I feel extremely lucky to have found such an amazing community here in Maastricht. The scholarship program has brought me incredible friends, and the support from staff and professors has meant a lot for my transition to the city. The Problem-Based Learning system in my classes has also shown me how much we can learn from each other when everyone feels comfortable asking questions and sharing what they know.

I'm really grateful for this opportunity and can't wait to see all the incredible things my classmates and peers will achieve. I truly believe scholarships like this have the power to unlock potential for so many talented students around the world, and I'm honored to be part of that story."

Juan 's LinkedIn