Saumya Balaji

How did you learn about the Wageningen University exchange program?

I first learned about Wageningen University and Research during the World Food Prize Global Youth Institute in high school. The university’s strong focus on the intersection of environmental sustainability with agriculture caught my interest. Later, when I saw that there was an opportunity to do a semester exchange at WUR through the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Study Abroad, I explored it further. After looking into the campus, student life, and academics, it was clear that it was the program for me! 

Why did you choose to participate in the Wageningen University exchange program?

I chose to study abroad at Wageningen University and Research because of its strong emphasis on and commitment to sustainability. I wanted to be in an environment and academic setting where I could learn about approaches to sustainability from an international perspective.

Do you think your experience is benefitting you personally, professionally, or academically?

My time at Wageningen has been very rewarding and well-rounded. The courses I’m taking here span a wide variety of topics, giving me a broad yet immersive educational experience. The international community here has also been fantastic and has been a key part of my exchange experience. I have had the opportunity to learn from different perspectives both inside and outside the classroom. 

On weekends, I’ve enjoyed traveling to different cities in the Netherlands as well as nearby countries. So far, I’ve visited Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam, each with its own distinct history, architecture, and memories. I have also been to Munich, Germany and plan to visit a few other countries while I am here! Exploring these places has really added to my experience here and has allowed me to learn more about the history and culture of the Netherlands and Europe. 

What is your favorite class you are taking abroad and how is it different/similar to classes at Iowa State?

My favorite course so far has been Global Marine Compounds, Flows, and Cycles, since it is really interactive and hands-on. It has allowed me to learn about different topics relating to the global hydrological cycle and apply my knowledge during the practicals each week. This course has taught me about water bodies and systems in the Netherlands, which is a major focus here. We also have an excursion component in the course, where we get to take a class trip to the Rhine-Meuse Delta in Rotterdam. There, we will learn about local and national efforts to manage water pollution in the area. 

So far, this course has been really different from the ones that I have taken at Iowa State since there is a large focus on marine systems in the Netherlands because of the abundance of water bodies such as the Rhine. But similarly to many Iowa State courses, there is a major real-world application component to the course, with a focus on agriculture. The course also covers soil biology topics, which have greater overlap with the Environmental Science courses I have taken at Iowa State. Taking this course has broadened my environmental knowledge base and has allowed me to consider topics beyond my focus prior to my experience here. 

Most memorable experience so far?

My most memorable experience was traveling to Munich, Germany during Oktoberfest. I had the opportunity to travel there along with several other students through a university association, Erasmus Student Network. Going to Munich allowed me to learn about the city’s culture while experiencing Oktoberfest and the festival’s traditions. 

I had the opportunity to go to historic buildings and churches that opened my mind to the city's history. I got to walk through the historic area of Marienplatz and experience the historic architecture by walking through the city. Visiting Munich was a great opportunity to step away from my daily routine in the Netherlands and immerse myself in a new city and country. 

Have you experienced any challenges or culture shock so far?

One of the biggest culture shocks that I experienced when I first arrived in the Netherlands was the biking culture. Coming from the US, I was not used to biking to get anywhere. In the Netherlands, biking to class, grocery stores, and even to get to other nearby cities is completely normal and accessible. Navigating this system and the new traffic rules was my first big culture shock when I arrived, even though I was entirely prepared for it. 

Another cultural difference is how people interact here- and I do not mean the directness. Before coming to Wageningen, I was prepared for people to plan get-togethers weeks in advance. But to my surprise, I have gotten spontaneously invited over to cook dinner or have tea after class on many occasions. At first, this really threw me off, but I now have so many memories that were made over spontaneous dinners and teas over the months!

Have scholarships impacted your decision to study abroad?

I was fortunate to receive scholarships from CALS Study Abroad, the World Food Prize Foundation, the Global Resource Systems major, and more, which allowed me to fund my semester abroad.

What advice would you give to students interested in this program or studying abroad in general?

Wageningen University was my second study abroad experience during my college career, my first one being an international internship at the S.M. Sehgal Foundation in India through the World Food Prize. In my experience, I can say without a doubt that your time abroad will be extremely transformative. My biggest piece of advice to those thinking about or are going abroad would be to be receptive to personal growth. Living abroad is not without its challenges, but stepping out of your comfort zone and tackling these challenges head-on will allow you to grow and learn so much from your journey. Keep reminding yourself to be receptive to new situations and to change, and constantly reflect on your growth. 

During my time at Wageningen University, I have grown so much personally and academically. For students considering studying abroad at Wageningen, my biggest piece of advice is to embrace the opportunity you will have for personal and academic growth. The university's diverse and international community will push you to challenge your perspectives and deepen your understanding of sustainability and the world around you. You will be pushed to think critically and work collaboratively with others through interactive coursework and extensive group projects and papers. Beyond academics, you will learn to be more adaptive by interacting with a diverse student body, navigating new systems and social norms, and learning about Dutch culture and history. Be open to stepping outside of your comfort zone; these experiences will enrich your education and allow you to grow and thrive.