Mladen - 1st year Communication Student
Meet Mladen Hristov, a Communication major from Bulgaria. In his first year at HAN, he overcame challenges like procrastination and teamwork struggles, excelling in his Digital Marketing course with an impressive 8.8.
Dutch Classroom Experience and Social Life
The Dutch Classroom Environment
My first impression of the Dutch classroom was its modern facilities and approachable teachers. The practice of addressing teachers by their first names fostered a friendly and interactive environment. I was pleasantly surprised by the effort teachers put into making lectures engaging and useful, which helped me enjoy and learn from them.
Social Integration
Making friends and integrating socially involved participating in extracurricular activities like parties, events, and sports. Initially, I found it easier to connect with people from my own country, but as my confidence in the language grew, I started socializing with internationals more. Living in student housing helped me make friends early on, which was crucial before school started.
A Memorable Social Event
One memorable event was a class activity funded by HAN, where we went bowling. This experience allowed me to connect with classmates outside of university, fostering a sense of belonging and comfort. The night continued with a city walk, drinking games at my place, and genuine fun, making me feel at home.
Living in student housing helped me make friends early on, which was crucial before school started.
From Procrastinator to Achiever: First Year Glow-Up
Overcoming Challenges
Procrastination was a significant challenge during my first year. I often left assignments until the last minute, leading to stress and burnout. I overcame this by gradually working on tasks throughout the study period. Teamwork was another challenge, as my teammates often aimed just to pass, while I had higher goals. Effective communication and helping others understand difficult material were key strategies in overcoming these teamwork challenges.
Achievements
One of my proudest moments was in my Digital Marketing course. Despite feeling lost initially, I studied hard and asked questions. Completing my portfolio was a rewarding experience, and I was thrilled to receive an 8.8 grade, which was higher than expected. This success boosted my confidence in my chosen field.
Extracurricular Impact
Although not involved in clubs, I participated in events organized by ISB and ISA associations. A significant impact came from a company visit for a PR subject, where I felt confident in my knowledge and ideas. My teacher appreciated my suggestion, validating the knowledge I had gained and boosting my confidence.
Advice for New Students
To new students, I advise socializing as much as possible, especially in the beginning. Participate in extracurricular activities for unique experiences and social connections. Embrace the international environment and make friends beyond your own language group. Enjoy your time and experiences in a new country, and consider getting a job if you have the free time, as it can be rewarding and enriching.
Importance of Socializing
Initially, I didn't socialize as much due to a long-distance relationship, which left me feeling isolated after it ended. Starting anew was challenging, but it taught me the importance of early social integration. Additionally, having too much free time without a job made me feel unproductive, emphasizing the value of a filled schedule.
Final Thoughts
My first year has significantly shaped my outlook, building a strong foundation in Communication and boosting my confidence. Guest lectures and visits have reduced my stress and taught me that no professional is perfect. I am optimistic about my future in this field.
