Maastricht University NL-High Potential scholarship

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.”

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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!"

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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." 

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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."

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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."

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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." 

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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."

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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!”

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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."

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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."

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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."

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