Balancing study and work: Insights from a Software Engineering student in the Netherlands

Finding the right job

‘I visited an internship fair in Deventer, where a lot of companies were present, including print.com. During the fair, I approached print.com among other potential options. I followed my usual routine of sending my CV and a motivational letter to different companies, hoping for a positive response. I received a phone call from print.com just two days after submitting my documents and was invited for an interview the same day! My work at the company aligns perfectly with my studies. During the Database Module, I learned a lot of theory which I immediately put into practice for print.com’

The work culture in the Netherlands

‘The Dutch work culture suits me perfectly and I know almost certainly that I want to stay here after my studies. One of the main reasons is the welcoming atmosphere of the people. It is hard to describe, but there is a collective understanding and respect for working hours and breaks. If a task becomes overwhelming, there is a shared understanding that no one expects more than what is realistically doable.

Working at print.com is great because of their strong international presence and positive work culture. The work culture focuses on independence, trust, and open communication. All documentation runs in English, which is a big advantage for me. Listening to my colleagues speak Dutch has also improved my language skills. They acknowledged that I understood the job and trusted me to work independently, while always providing me with support.’

Balancing study and work

‘I have always been diligent in strictly dividing my time, I follow a strict routine to ensure a work-life balance. For example, I established a rule for my part-time work, dedicating only two specific days each week for it. This allowed me to create a well-defined schedule where I could allocate time for classes, studying, and my part-time job. By following this rule, both my classmates and the company knew exactly when I was available to work or meet. This mutual understanding helped in managing expectations for my work tasks and helped me plan my assignments effectively, as I knew how much time I had available for them. Currently, I put my job on hold temporarily to concentrate on my specialisation. Because my employer and I discussed this upfront I will return to work once this semester ends.'

Overcoming challenges

‘There were some challenges for me when I first started working in a professional environment: Figuring out how everything works, understanding my daily tasks, learning about the organisation, etc. I learned that if you want help it’s important to ask. For example, when I had no understanding of how data moved from point A to point B, I scheduled a meeting with a system expert who provided me with a clear explanation.'

Advice for students

'There are a few important things to consider when considering part-time work while studying in the Netherlands. First, familiarise yourself with the insurance requirements. I personally encountered an unexpected situation regarding health insurance. So, it's essential to understand the regulations and make the necessary adjustments.

Secondly, gaining practical experience has great value. While certifications are valuable, companies also want to see your ability to apply knowledge in real-world scenarios. Practical skills such as setting up networks or programming are highly sought after.

When it comes to applying for jobs in the Netherlands, first impressions are crucial. It's important to create a CV that quickly captures the attention of potential employers. During interviews, presenting yourself professionally with clear goals and expectations demonstrates your competence and confidence. Employers appreciate candidates who show a solid understanding of their field and are prepared to handle challenges.

Also, it's wise to consider the benefits provided by the company, such as pension arrangements. In my case, I was lucky to have my employer contribute to my pension. However, I've learned that not all companies offer this benefit to their employees, making it necessary for individuals to arrange their own pensions. As an international student navigating a new legal environment in the Netherlands, where systems differ from my home country, having this level of support was invaluable.'

Developing as a software engineer student

'In conclusion, my journey as a software engineering student has been defined by two key elements: close attention to detail and a deep understanding of the importance of data integration. By prioritising clarity and accuracy in my work and constantly striving for reliable data processing, I developed the skills and mindset necessary for success in the field. These experiences have played a crucial role in shaping my growth as a software engineering student.'