Updated Information:
Click here to read an EXTREMELY important and useful message from the Utrecht International Relations Office!
Sharon DiFino's Homepage
Program Director
Dr. Sharon Difino
difino@prodigy.net
difino@ufl.edu
Cell Phone: 06-25-302-328
Words (woorden)
From a University brochure
"Located in the heart of the Netherlands, Utrecht University is an established, classical university which in its 365-year history has developed into one of the European continent's large, foremost research and educational institutes. The university, founded in 1636 to replace the old medieval monastery school, is at home in nearly all scientific fields, has a strong international profile, and approaches contemporary social issues with an open mind."
"Utrecht is an attractive city with a rich history. It was founded by the Romans in 47 A.D. Charming streets, courtyards, parks, cloisters and unique pedestrian wharves along its canals set the scene in the city centre. Located in the heart of the Netherlands, the city of Utrecht is a junction where traffic, art, knowledge, services, and trade meet and mingle. Moreover, Utrecht is known as a city of festivals for music, dance, theatre and film. Utrecht University's many students have also helped shape the ambiance and vitality of the city's culture and night life."
What comes to your mind when you think of Utrecht?
Words from past UF/Utrecht students
- shopping!
- canals
- coffeeshops
- fun, friendly people
- patat frites met saus (French fries with mayonnaise)
- the Dom tower
- fresh, hot stroopwafels (syrup cookies)
- flower markets
- Saturday morning flea market
- ham and kaas broodjes (ham and cheese sandwiches)
- street musicians
Erin Costello, Utrecht 2000
"Studying abroad was a life changing and enhancing experience. I learned so much about myself and other cultures. I loved the chance to learn about and meet the Dutch people. My life was impacted by our Dutch teachers, the students from all across Europe, and especially the people from UF. The life long friends I made were the highlight of my summer in Utrecht. We are forever bonded by the experiences of a foreign land that no one else could ever understand."
Chrissy Pannier, Utrecht 2000
"Our wonderful place of residence, Parnassos, was a lot more than I expected it to be. It was nice to have our own rooms and the location was great - close to classes, the grocery store, the city center, etc. As long as one can get their hall mates to clean the kitchen every once in a while - alles goed (all is good)! I thought that the actual classes and lectures were really good. I liked how they brought in different lecturers and it was good that they were each native of the countries that they were talking about. I really learned a lot more than I thought I would. The scheduling of the program was good too..they gave us plenty of time to go off on the weekends and didn't make us get up all that early every morning.
When I think back over the summer, I think of meeting a ton of really cool people that go to the same school as me but who I never would have met otherwise. We got a chance to actually be a part of a whole different society and culture for a while and that was definitely an eye-opener. It made me appreciate home."
Lauren Correia, Utrecht 2000
"I had the best time of my life on this trip! If you are considering going and still wishy-washy about the decision, GO! It will be the best decision you have ever made.
The Dutch people are open to visitors and speak English. They are truly some of the nicest, most genuine people I have ever met. I learned so much about myself and how different and strange our country is in comparison with the world and I think that is something really worth learning about.
You might feel humbled and scared and maybe a little overwhelmed that you are going abroad but it is an experience you will never forget. You will discover a whole part of yourself you never knew existed, especially if you are thinking of going without knowing anyone else. It is such an adventure and you will meet the most wonderful people that are also going on the trip. You automatically have so many things in common and you will bond through this experience. I personally feel I have met some of the most special people in the world and I hope you will too! DO IT!!!!"
Emily Wolfarth, Utrecht 2000
"Choosing to study abroad in the Netherlands was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Not only is the Netherlands in the center of Europe (making for easy travel to other countries), but the people are generally very friendly and willing to help foreigners. I remember when I had just flown into Amsterdam, I had no idea where the train station was, or how to buy tickets. Everyone I asked for help was polite and spoke almost-perfect English. There are a few cultural differences you have to get used to, however, when you are in the Netherlands. People don't really apologize when they bump into you (you'll learn why in class!). And waiters won't pay you as much attention as the do in the States, but you aren't obligated to leave a large tip either. Oh, one more thing- the Super de Boer, the grocery store near Parnassos, has a bit of a different culture too. Be sure to weigh your own fruit, bring something to carry it all home in, and be prepared to bag everything yourself.
Studying abroad taught me so much about the Dutch and other European cultures, much more than I could have learned in a classroom. I know I will never forget anything about Utrecht: the canals, the Dom, the Pancake Bakery, Parnassos, and especially the great friends I made.
