Student Jasmine

Housing
Jasmine already knew which degree she wanted to pursue before discovering it was offered in Apeldoorn: Marketing & Communications, with a specialization in digital and media. “I first found my degree, and only later found out it was in Apeldoorn.” When she started looking into the city, one thing immediately stood out. “I Googled what Apeldoorn is known for and saw forests and nature everywhere. That really sold it for me.” Being surrounded by green felt more important to her than living in a busy city.

Since moving there, she has thoroughly explored the area. “From Paleis Het Loo all the way to Berg en Bos and Orderbos. Almost every weekend we hop on our bikes to discover something new.”

Her first home in the Netherlands was student housing on the Ruyterstraat, offered by Wittenborg. The school provides new students with accommodation for the first few months, giving them time to find their own place. Jasmine especially appreciated the strong sense of community. “People really support each other there, even when it comes to finding rooms.” “I had never seen such nice student housing before. I chose to stay for the first months because of the introduction period and meeting other students. It made settling in really easy, and I could get to classes without a bike at first.”

Later, she moved into a shared terraced house (rijtjeshuis) in Ugchelen. Jasmine and her boyfriend found the place through Couchsurfing while they were still in South Africa. “We viewed the house through a video call before moving in, but it already felt right. We knew this had to be the one.” The household is international and relaxed, with a Dutch housemate and a German housemate with his two cats. “The atmosphere is very chill and connected. For example, the Dutch housemate cooks for us once in a while, which really helps keep that connection.” Jasmine laughs: “And for me and my boyfriend it’s perfect, because we really don’t like cooking.”

What surprised her most was how creative the neighborhood turned out to be. “Our neighbors are artists, and there’s even an art route where you can visit artists’ homes and see their work. That’s so cool.” Although Ugchelen is a village within the municipality of Apeldoorn, it does mean some travel time — which is why Jasmine bought a bike. “It’s the cheapest way to get around and the best way to stay fit on a student budget. Even in winter, it’s a great way to stay healthy — even if it’s inconvenient when you’re late for class.”

Activities
Living and studying in Apeldoorn feels very balanced to Jasmine.
“My favorite thing to do as a student is to take a meal I would normally eat at home and enjoy it outside in the green.” Picnicking has become a small ritual, especially because it fits so well with being creative. There are many beautiful spots to paint, draw or take photographs. “When I work outside, studying feels a little less like an obligation.”

Even when the weather is colder, there is always something to do. With a museum card, cultural outings are an easy choice. “When it’s cold, you just have to get out and do something cultural. We use our museum card and go everywhere.” Apeldoorn has a strong creative scene with many local artists. “I love connecting with them and supporting them — they’re very open, and it’s really good for the soul.” A visit to Cannenburch, even on a cold day, proved that getting out is always worth it. “It’s almost always better than going for a beer — even though that’s nice once in a while,” Jasmine says with a smile.

When the weather improves, the city really comes alive. “There’s often live music in Apeldoorn, especially on Sundays at Gigant. The vibe is great and local artists are really supported there.” Being creative is an important part of her daily life. As a painter, the environment feels familiar and inspiring. “I’ve done ceramics before, but now I mostly paint. It helps clear my mind — sometimes I just draw with pencils.” She would definitely recommend other students to be creative as well. “It’s good for the soul and a nice way to relax.”

Volunteering
Volunteering plays an important role alongside Jasmin’s studies. Opportunities often come directly through the school. “We regularly get emails about volunteering, which makes it very easy to get involved.” One of those opportunities led her to the Café Theather Festival. Through them she work at cafés in Utrecht, such as Hofman and Liffna, where live performances take place. “I’m basically the bridge between the artist and the café owner, making sure everything runs smoothly during events.” Working alongside students from other universities adds extra value. “It’s really nice to meet people outside your own study.” (p.s. students can volunteer each year with CTF).

Festivals are another way she stays involved. “Sometimes I scan tickets, do my shift, and afterward I can enjoy the festival for free.” It’s an easy and fun way to meet people and be part of events without spending money. Small moments can also lead to new opportunities. After a silent disco at Marktplein, a friend asked how the bar staff got their jobs. It turned out to be through an agency, where students can volunteer to work. Not everyone is interested in volunteering, but for Jasmine it adds real value. “It’s a great way to experience things without paying for them and to feel connected.” That sense of connection stands out most for her.