Getting down to business

Justicia Shipena





People go to university for a variety of reasons. It might be for a degree or simply to take the next step in life.

Or maybe your parents expect it from you or you want to make the most out of life.

Whatever the reason, university experiences are different for everyone.

Natasha Bassingthwaighte is pursuing a bachelor's degree in international business and management studies at Saxion University of Applied Sciences in Deventer, Netherlands.

She enrolled at the university in 2016 and is now in her final semester - the thesis phase.

Speaking to The Zone, Bassingthwaighte said since secondary school she was keen on pursuing a degree within the business field, especially abroad.

Before enrolling at Saxion she did detailed research on a variety of universities that offer degree courses in the business field.

“What attracted me to Saxion University was that the course they offered had an international focus, which is increasingly valuable in this era of globalisation,” she said.

Additionally, she found the subjects interesting, as they had areas she wanted to gain knowledge in. The university also offers scholarships and is highly accredited.

Bassingthwaighte said the application process was quite simple.

Saxion's international office was very helpful in terms of making all the necessary arrangements with regard to applying for the course, as well as applying for a scholarship. Saxion only required her to have a high school diploma and proof of English language competency.

Many universities require one to take a language test when applying, but she did not have to take any language tests, because she had English as a first language.

The first thing she liked about Saxion was its multicultural environment. The student population consists of individuals from various countries across the globe.

“By always interacting with individuals from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds, I have been able to increase my knowledge on different cultures and my ability to work with different people, while overcoming cultural differences and barriers,” she said.

She said lecturers are always willing to help and assist in whichever manner they can.

Saxion focuses on shaping students and preparing them for their role as conscious businesspeople, while making them aware of global citizenship.

Bassingthwaighte explained that the course includes partnering with multinational firms to provide students with research projects.

They also have an opportunity to complete one semester at a partner university in another country and two internship semesters. There is a good balance between theoretical and practical education, she said.

She said the course has many practical aspects and opportunities to build and grow a professional network.

She was also surprised by the large amount of group work they do.

“My eyes have been opened to so many new things and all the experiences I have had during these past four years have impacted my life greatly. I do not regret this decision.

“Make sure you do your research about the country (you want to study in) and all other requirements prior to travelling abroad. This will help you to avoid finding yourself in any sticky situations,” she said.

Bassingthwaighte said one should choose a field of study you love and truly have an interest in.

“No one wants to be abroad, far away from your family, doing something you don't like or have no interest in. Save yourself the misery and choose something that will make waking up in the morning a little easier.”

When asked if there is anything she would do differently, she said if she could go back in time, she would make more of an effort to maintain a better balance between work and play, and make more time to do things she enjoys outside her studies.

“I put a lot of pressure on myself when it came to my studies, because I've always believed in giving your all or nothing. It is important to do your best, but don't push yourself to the point where you are at risk of being burnt out.”

After graduating, her next step is pursuing a master's degree and thereafter she would like to gain more work experience before moving back home and continuing the rest of her journey. Her main goal is to eventually start her own company.

Her favourite spots in the city is the market square called The Brink, which is in the heart of the city. Every Friday and Saturday, locals gather there to buy fresh produce like cheese, locally grown fruit and vegetables, fresh fish and local delicacies, etc. All stores and restaurants are also within walking distance from this area. There is also a park close to Deventer Central Station which is nice spot to go and hang out with friends, go for a walk or relax and read a book.

Did you know?

The roots of Saxion University can be traced back to the 1875. A merger of two educational institutions, the Hogeschool Enschede and Hogeschool IJselland, in 1998 paved the way for the university in its present form.

Bassingthwaighte facts

· She enjoys cooking and baking.

· She enjoys travelling and exploring new places.

· She recently developed a love for photography.

· She enjoys going on unplanned adventures.

· She loves reading self-help books and watching self-help seminars. She is an open-minded individual who enjoys learning.

· She loves laughing, so to relieve stress, she often watches stand-up comedy.