From Chicago to the Olympics, here's what Wittenborg’s students and staff got up to

As summer comes to an end and a new academic block starts, Wittenborg students and staff have returned with a range of experiences to share. From family and city trips, to internships and personal adventures, these summer experiences will add a unique perspective as staff and students dive into the new academic block.

Odekunle Ibrahim Yemi, a student from Nigeria studying towards his IBA (International Business Administration) degree in Economics, spent his summer reconnecting with his family. "I have not seen my family in years; my main purpose was to spend more time with them," he shared. He enjoyed the local atmosphere and visited the beach. Although he also worked on his PDP (Personal Development Planning) assignments, he is now focused on passing his retake courses as the new academic block begins.

Associate Professor Vanessa de Oliveira Menezes enjoyed a leisurely summer exploring New York City and Chicago. Her main goal was "to have fun and rest my mind," and she particularly looked forward to trying Chicago’s famous pizza. Despite the European summer typically being her preference, she appreciated the relaxation of her American summer and is excited about meeting new students at Wittenborg.

Azat Bootaev, a Hospitality Management student from Kyrgyzstan, spent his summer travelling across Europe. His goal was "to find a part-time job and explore the Netherlands a bit." Although he faced the European heat and occasional lack of air conditioning, he enjoyed the adventure. Looking ahead, he’s eager to meet new friends and enjoy his time with faculty and peers in the new academic block.

Maryam Shahpasandzadeh, an MBA (Master of Business Administration) student from Iran, spent her summer interning at Wittenborg. She described her summer as a transition period, aiming to start working. "For me, summer is mostly barbecuing in the evening, going to the movies, and maybe visiting new places."

Raghav Verma, a student in Marketing and Communication from India, balanced a part-time job with travel, visiting Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Germany with family. His goals included "finding a part-time job and exploring new places," and he enjoyed the European weather and destinations. As the new academic block starts, he’s excited about meeting new friends and having a wonderful time with friends and faculty.

Kianoush Moghaddaszadeh, a Social and Digital Media student from Iran, had a low-key summer focused on finding an internship. As the new academic block begins, Kianoush is keen to secure an internship and advance his career.
Masoumeh Mahmoudi, an MBA student from Iran, spent her summer searching for a house and work while visiting her sister. She enjoyed exploring Dutch cities and travelling with her NS subscription. With the new academic block underway, she’s focused on finding a job and maybe relocating to a city other than Apeldoorn. 

Beatriz de Rosa Soares, an MBM (Master of Business Management) student in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from Brazil, moved to a new city, furnished her home, and attended the Olympics. She also worked on her thesis and enjoyed reconnecting with friends. Despite not enjoying the European summer heat or crowds, she appreciated the ease of travel and is now looking forward to finishing her thesis as the new academic block begins.

WUP 20/09/2024
by Erene Roux
©WUAS Press