Laurens
20 years, Zadkine
Why Rotterdam?
"I live with my parents in Poortugaal but really just feel like a Rotterdammer. I'm a fan of the city. You can walk along the waterfront for hours or choose the hustle and bustle of the city center. Just whatever you feel like! And then we also have the most beautiful soccer club in the country."
What did you learn in Rotterdam?
"I run several companies in addition to my studies, and for entrepreneurs, Rotterdam has a lot to offer. In Rotterdam, for example, I learned to network. There are so many meetings, events and other ways to meet people that it really enriches my work."
Where should you be?
"Our training is at Benthemplein, near Hofplein. Nice and close to public transport. You can easily walk into town and there's plenty in the neighborhood as well. A place we frequent is Served, near the entrance to Metro City Hall. A well-kept secret near Benthemplein is the sushi store on Teilingerstraat. There you can get a mountain of delicious sushi for very little money. And the advantage of studying at Zadkine is that there is a bakery. On the first floor, we can buy whole cakes in the bakery shop for 2.50 euros!"
What should you really do (or not do) as a freshman?
"Above all, join other new students quickly. You don't necessarily have to join a club or something. Just join the activities for first-year students, go to a gym in Rotterdam, that already helps. And you don't have to join everything. Rotterdam can be quite busy, especially if you are new to the city. To relax, it's nice to walk or run along the river Maas by yourself."
What will you do?
"After the vacations I will do my study abroad internship, a regular part of our education. And then I can pick up my diploma already! I can see myself sticking around abroad for a while after that; I'm doing International Business for a reason. In any case, I also keep busy with my businesses. Among other things, I have my own clothing company that I spend a lot of time on, even on vacation. Where will I be in 10 years? Then I'll have a house in Rotterdam. In a nice place in the center, or maybe in Zuid. Because you can never live too close to the Kuip."
The hotspots of Laurens
Teyl Inn - for good and inexpensive sushi
Served - for delicious coffee and a quiet workplace
The New Maas - to run (hard) with a view of the city