Hi, I'm Nicole. I'm South African, and I'm studying the International and European Tax Law Master's at Maastricht University, specialising in International Supply Chain and Customs Taxation.
For me, choosing Maastricht was an easy decision. I had already completed my Bachelor's degree at Maastricht's European Law School and enjoyed the experience. During my Bachelor's, I took a course on taxation, which sparked my interest in the field. I was also aware of the high quality of the Master's programme, so it felt natural to stay on. Maastricht is a great place to live, and I appreciate the university's Problem-Based Learning (PBL) teaching style.
A Master's programme is demanding. You need to stay on top of your work, manage your time well, and stay organised. However, I still find plenty of free time to spend with friends. Maastricht is a beautiful city with lots of nature, making it perfect for study breaks and walks. With good planning each week, it's possible to manage the workload while still enjoying everything the city has to offer.
I’ve particularly enjoyed all the courses in my specialisation, but International Trade Law stands out as my favorite. It was fascinating to explore the crossroads between politics and law in an international context and to learn how countries trade with one another. It offered a fresh perspective, and I found it very engaging.
Since the start of my academic career, I've valued Maastricht's PBL teaching method. The small groups and interactive discussions make the learning experience much more engaging and allow you to truly connect with the material. It's not just about attending lectures; it's about applying what you learn. This approach was a key reason I decided to stay at Maastricht for my Master's.
If you're interested in this Master's programme, feel free to contact us or visit one of our Master's Open Days.
You’re really encouraged to think critically about what you've just read and put it into practice afterwards.