This week was the beginning of my schooling at Maastricht University (well, sort of). It was more of an orientation for PBL (Problem Based Learning) and understanding Dutch culture. The start of my orientation was on Tuesday this past week, where I learned more about Problem Based Learning. Problem Based Learning centers more around student groups and less around professors teaching the subject matter. The professor gives us a subject to read about and it is up to the groups of students to study the subject, write down the main components of the subject, and do additional research that the subject may require. This is all new to me as I now have to rely more on my group mates rather than the professor for help on the subject. Later that same day, I went to a class that was about Dutch culture. There, I learned about the things that are most important to Ducth people, which included a variety of foods and alcohol (yes, alcohol is very important to the Dutch). I was also able to ask about what kinds of food I could try while in Maastricht, and I was given a list of restaurants to try while I am residing in Maastricht.

Wednesday orientation was about touring the UCM school at Maastricht. I got into this school via application because one of the classes I am taking this quarter is in this school so I was happy to get into it. There, I learned more ab0ut PBL and how it is applied at this school. After that session, we got a tour of the building and I was able to see where all of my classes were. Later in the day, I had my second PBL session and this time, we went through a practice PBL session where the students discussed an issue and proposed solutions to the issue based off of the information the text gave us. It was very helpful because I find that listening to other students helps me craft ideas of my own and this allows me to participate to the fullest extent.

My orientation was only two days this week so I spent the rest of the week doing my own thing. This involved going to the gym and going to my favorite bagel place, Bagels and Beans. The people that work there are starting to know me since I am a regular at that place. I enjoy the vibe at that place and the food is delicious so it is a place where I frequent. In addition, I also got my textbooks for my classes so I started reading. Right now, I am reading about the history of the EU and the departments within the EU and the history of international relations and realism. This is very interesting stuff and they serve as the basis for my classes. I am excited to learn more about the EU and international relations this semester as I hope to broaden my view and perspective on international relations and European politics.

The biggest takeaways from this week were learning about new things and adapting to a new style of learning. I have been used to learning more from my professors than my peers. Here, it is the complete opposite and I have to adjust to that. Luckily, I have a lot of friends already here in Maastricht and they have been helpful in PBL sessions so far. So I would say that I am off to a great start with PBL here in Maastricht.