By Ella Rutherford

My name is Ella and I am 21 years old. I am in my second year of a Bachelor of Social Science majoring in Psychology. I love travelling and exploring new places. On my gap year, I went solo travelling around Europe seeing 14 countries. I had the most amazing experience and saw so many cool places. My time in Europe made me want to go back and have the opportunity to live in such an incredible place. I loved Amsterdam and Harlem when I was in the Netherlands, the beautiful country and people really captivated me. Also, the Tulips are to die for! I chose the Netherlands because it is in the heart of Europe as well as being able to do my degree in English. Maastricht is on the border of Belgium and I am excited to bike over for a nice coffee!

I am hoping to get as much out of my exchange as possible. I’d love to really immerse myself in Dutch culture and learn as much about their way of living. I am excited to live somewhere so different to New Zealand and push myself out of my comfort zone. I’d love to travel more throughout Europe and experience all there is to offer. I can’t wait to meet so many new people and make some incredible memories.