My list of challenges to study in Wageningen

Written by Mariana García

I was convinced that I wanted to pursue my studies with a graduate program. After a couple of months searching for a university and a program that convinced me, I happily found the MSc Development and Rural Innovation. A list of challenges came with my desire to study in Wageningen.

I couldn’t stop to navigate in WU web site. Food, environment, agriculture, development, and livable future were some of the words that appeared frequently in the web and helped me to decide to apply for this program. I realized that WU is ranked as one of the best universities in the world. I was very motivated, but also (I must confess) I was kind of scared and nervy about it, because I really wanted to be part of that.

When you choose to have big aspirations, obviously you are choosing challenges too.

Remember that we all go through that, and somehow we did it!

MY LIST OF CHALLENGES TO OVERCOME 

• APPLICATION

 I found all the requirements in the WU website, I followed step by step the instructions and I upload all(most) the documents in the Student Tracking Admission Registration System (STARS).

It was not difficult, however I wanted to write the best Statement of Motivation. In this step I strongly advise to the prospective students to write it with time, no hurries! And remember, Wageningen University is not looking for perfect students, because all of us we are going to improve in WU. So please, do not pretend (as I did) to write the best letter EVER. You should write convincing statements showing why you want to study your chosen program in Wageningen and what are you going to do later with that opportunity.

As well, I suggest to do the same with your Curriculum Vitae, do it simple and always say the truth.

• PROVING MY ENGLISH LEVEL

“I upload all(most) the documents in….” Yes. ALMOST! I was in a big problem. The English test I had wasn’t accepted by the Admission Committee. Which mean that I didn´t meet the standard level requirement and wouldn’t be admitted to the program.

So I wrote them, and I was given the opportunity to do a new test and send them as soon as possible the results. I felt comforted but also pressed about it. I passed the test with the mandatory scores and I waited.

• SEEK AND FIND A SCHOLARSHIP

Since the moment I saw the study expenses I realized that I couldn’t pay them. So, from the beginning I started looking for all scholarship programs in which I could fit. My Facebook and my Google searcher were used just for that. And I was surprised by the number of scholarships and funding opportunities that you can find.

I suggest to get in touch with Nuffic that is the Netherlands organization for international cooperation in higher education. I México there is an office and they work together with the in Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture & Science and the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs (consulates and embassies).

Also, I think is very important to foresee how are you going to pay your housing, living allowance, insurance and residence permit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my summarized tips are:

• Start early with your application in WU and in the scholarships
• Have all the requirements and documents ready
• Ask, ask and ask. No matter what, if you feel shame for it, think that maybe you are missing your opportunity of studying in Wageningen.

Remember that we all go through that, and somehow we did it! Stay positive, make your best and make it happen!