A Recap of My First Month in Utrecht

I don’t know where to start. This month has been so full of new and exciting things, and I really can’t do them all justice in one blog post. So here are some highlights from my first month on international exchange in Utrecht.

Travelling to Utrecht by train from the airport

My new wheels (note the lack of gears & handbrakes)

When you buy a mop and need to cycle home…

Cheesy photos at orientation day

My housemates took me to a forest!

My classmate Rasa and I walking along the Oudegracht during a class break

The 465 steps to the top of the Dom Toren are worth the view

An afternoon trip to the town of Dordrecht

Coffee with a mini stroopwafel on the side

The Saturday market in Utrecht

It’s been a busy month. Moving into a new house, finding a bike, buying things for my room, opening a bank account, starting new classes… it’s like being in first year again. And as school gets busier (I already have a midterm next week), things that were exciting a few weeks ago have begun to feel overwhelming.

To avoid burning out, I’ve stopped saying ‘yes’ to everything like I did the first few weeks. Although I don’t want to miss out on anything, it’s been important for me to acknowledge my limits. I’m learning that it’s okay to say no to doing things – even when you’re on exchange!

With all that being said, there are still so many things I look forward to doing here in the Netherlands. There are foods I’ve been told to try, cities to visit, and events I want to attend. I am so grateful to be here, and excited for the year ahead.