Chloe Nguyen

My name is Phuong Nguyen, but I also go by Chloe. After finishing my Bachelor’s in Psychology and International Business in the United States, I decided to pursue further in the branch of Cognitive Psychology. I fell in love with the learning about how we perceive the world, how we form memory and (kind of) lose it. 

After spending more than four years in Chicago’s freezing weather, I wanted a change in the academic setting so I started looking for programs in other countries. I chose Rotterdam after considering all the aspects: program curriculum, school reputation, the city and the country. And I must say it was one of the best decisions I have made! 

Overall, the current curriculum has allowed me to practice self-discipline. Most of the time we’ll have to read at home and be prepared to contribute to the class’s discussion. The Problem-based learning approach has helped improve my ability to focus, listen, and answer in a fast-paced yet tolerant setting. The small-sized class is also a plus for we have more attention and time from our professors in both lectures and the group meetings.

I am planning to get a job here in the near future, either in academic or industry is fine with me because I think I can adapt quite well. At the same time, I am trying to learn Dutch to increase my chances of landing a job where it requires some knowledge of the language. Rotterdam and Holland in general is such a lively place that offers so many opportunities so I am sure there will always be something for you here. 

I honestly think that this program can offer you something as long as you have an interest in learning about the human mind and behaviours. It provides broad understanding of the current topics in Cognitive Psychology. At the same time, it allows you to use your own time to dig deeper into your topic of interest, whether it is more Neuroscience-based, Linguistic, or applied psychology in other fields such as education or business. The vast campus is a bonus where you can literally do everything onsite: study spaces, supermarket, food court, gym, and the dormitory (it’s limited in availability so you gotta be faster than others to get this one ;)). All in all, I am grateful to have the opportunity to be here and I hope you will also make a decision that you will be happy about later.