Mia | Groningen

I’m Mia from Germany and I’m sitting here taking a study break. Every now and then I sit here next to the canal. Just now I read an article about two musicians talking to each other about their differences and similarities.

Do you have more differences or similarities with your friends?

Both. But since I’m here in Groningen, I have more friends who are different than me. They are very international and have all kinds of backgrounds, perceptions of normality, and influences. For example, one of my roommates is from Thailand. However, there are never big differences, most people are very similar, it’s more the little things that stand out. I’ve been here for three years now and all the new influences have changed me, but not consciously. But I feel like studying abroad has a big impact on you in many ways that are hard to define.

Tell me more about your studies

I’m a psychology major, and I’m particularly interested in developmental psychology. It’s about how people grow up and how they are shaped. The general question of „nature vs. nurture,“ which means genetic and environmental influences. This connects back to your question about how living abroad changes a person.

What environmental influences have there been in your life?

Probably growing up in Berlin had a big influence on me. Berlin is so different from any other part of Germany and maybe influenced me to develop an open mind.

What was it like moving from Berlin to Groningen?

For me it was strange to get used to the small city. The Dutch culture is quite similar and the Dutch people are nice, although it is sometimes difficult to get closer with Dutch students.

Why are you studying psychology?

Honestly, I didn’t know what else to study. But I am happy with the decision. Later I don’t want to work with patients, but I don’t know yet what exactly I want to do. It’s more of a process of elimination.