Moving abroad to study is both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to finding the right programme and managing the realities of daily life. Ata from Turkey is now in his third year of International Business Management at Tio Business School. With previous academic experience in software development, he decided to change direction and pursue a more business-oriented degree. Here, he shares his story about his journey, the benefits of small-scale education, and navigating the cost of living as an international student in the Netherlands.
Finding the right fit
Ata began his studies in Turkey, where he pursued a degree in Information Management and Software. While the programme provided him with technical skills, he quickly realised his passion lay elsewhere. “While I was doing the development-focused bachelor’s degree, I noticed that I don’t really enjoy software development as a job or as a major because I consider it more like a pastime or a hobby,” he explains.
This turning point led him to explore alternatives, focusing on business-oriented programmes. Choosing Tio Business School and Amsterdam was a combination of academic preference and personal circumstances. “I wanted to live in Amsterdam, so I focused specifically on the schools there. Tio was at the top of my list because of its small-scale classes. Back in Turkey, classes were taught in large auditoriums, and I noticed that I couldn’t really focus or perform in those situations.”
The value of small-scale education
For Ata, the difference between the learning environments in Turkey and at Tio has been night and day. “In smaller classes of seven or eight people, it’s much easier to talk with the teacher, get their opinions and ask for clarification. Back home, I would have had to shout through 100 or more people, which just wasn’t comfortable.”
Beyond the teaching style, the curriculum at Tio Business School offers a sharper focus on practical applications compared to the more generalist approach Ata experienced before. “The most apparent difference is the tighter focus of subjects. For example, instead of just general mathematics, we learned management accounting — maths that actually applies to real-world business settings. That’s something I really appreciate.”
Looking ahead
Ata is already planning his future in the Netherlands after graduation. “I really want to stay here. I was lucky in finding a long-term internship at an accounting consultancy. During his internship, Ata supports clients by setting up information management websites and working closely with accountants and advisors. It is a role in which he sees great potential for growth. I feel like I fill an important and well-defined niche in the company, so I'd like to stay in this role and grow as much as I can. My plans after graduation would be finally getting my proper working visa and moving beyond the limitations of a student visa.”
Living costs and financial realities
“Amsterdam is not the cheapest city, especially for someone coming from a cheaper country like Turkey, and housing is not always readily available. When I first moved here, I benefited from Tio’s assistance for accommodation, which was a lifesaver.
After some adjusting, Ata has built a comfortable day-to-day student life for himself. His advice to future international students is practical: “Learn to budget your expenses. And learn to ride a bike in the rain,” he adds smiling. It was miserable at first, but it saves a lot of money and soon it’s just part of everyday Dutch life.”
A message to future students
Reflecting on his journey, Ata is confident he made the right choice with Tio Business School. “Yeah, I would actually choose Tio again, because the way of teaching is compatible with my way of learning. The quality of education and the experience make it worthwhile!”
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