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At the beginning of the winter term of the MSc in Global Health program, McMaster welcomed 9 exchange students from Maastricht University.

 

Marjolein van Rooijen is one of the Netherlands students who has chosen to spend her winter term in Canada. “I expect the exchange to be a great experience, she says, and I’m looking forward to working face-to-face with my Canadian peers.

 

Originally from Abcoude, a small village near Amsterdam, van Rooijen completed a Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences at the VU University Amsterdam. She also minored in Social Sciences, which took her to Stellenbosch, South Africa. “Living in South Africa, I became interested in a more global view of health, and all the various factors that influence our wellbeing.” After this experience abroad, she applied for the Master of Science in Global Health program at Maastricht, which she began last September.

 

Part of what drew van Rooijen to this particular program was an interest in the business side of global health, as the Global Health program brings together faculties of social sciences, health sciences, business and humanities to tackle emerging challenges in globalization and health. “I hope to learn more about the different perspectives economists have on global health issues,” she says.

 

So what has been her experience so far, upon arrival in Hamilton, Ontario? “The campus is very different from what I’m used to back in the Netherlands.” Van Rooijen observes. “McMaster is very big, and there are a lot more students compared to Maastricht University. Also, Maastricht is a much smaller town, and really cosy and intimate compared to Hamilton.” That said, she is quick to admit, “I really like the students and professors I’ve met on campus and in class. Everyone is very helpful and friendly!” Overall she expects to have a fulfilling experience – socially, academically, and globally.