Which study fits me best? Sigh. Making a study choice is quite difficult. After all, it somewhat determines your future. And there is so much choice! Where should you start? And what should you pay attention to? What can you expect? Don't panic. In this blog we try to give you answers to the above questions.

But before we continue, one of us would like to give you the following: ‍

"Don't focus on making the perfect study choice. Because honestly, there is no such thing. And I can tell. I have been studying for 8 years now. And - as we speak - another 2 years on top of that. But even after all these years, I still don't know if I have chosen the right study. Am I happy with my choices? Yes, absolutely! Whether I am sure? No. After all, I like a lot of things."

Today's wise lesson? Interests simply cannot be captured in one field of study.

Who am I? What do I like?

Let's start with you. Who are you? And we're not talking about your first and last name, age and hometown. You are probably in your senior year of high school right now. And your final exams are getting closer and closer. But with that final exam in sight, a new adventure is also beginning. You will soon be going to college. Exciting!

But who are you really? What do you like? And what are you good at? Choosing your studies should start with where your interests and talents lie. It is important to do something you like and what you are good at. Write down what your strengths are, but also what you are less good at. In addition, what do you like to do in your free time? And what 3 things do you think are important when choosing a study? It doesn't have to be a report. Put it in your phone and keep it short and to the point. That way you always have it at hand and keep it organized. Handy for later!

Do you find it difficult? Ask your parents, family and friends for help. They often have some ideas. More than you sometimes think. What do they think suits you? And what does not suit you at all? Do not hesitate to talk to your mentor or dean. They know you personally and are the right people to support and advise you in your choice of study.

And what can I do?

What else can you do with your profile? An important question! But the answer to that question is not always pleasant. Because not every profile gives access to every study. And that's shit. That's why it's important to know which studies do and don't fit your profile.

Want to know more about your profile and which studies fit it or not? Then check out From Profile to Study! This handy tool shows you which profiles and additional subjects give access to which study.

Are you in vmbo? Then check out KiesMBO. This tool is specifically focused on the opportunities that the mbo offers. It shows you what courses you can choose from. And it gives you insight into internships, apprenticeships and business.

Will it be mbo, college or wo?

Perhaps the terms mbo, hbo and wo already seem somewhat familiar to you. The choice between MBO, HBO and WO depends largely on you. What are you good at? And what are you less good at? In what way do you like to learn? And where do you see yourself later? In a nutshell: MBO programs offer practical training for specific professions. Courses at hbo have more theoretical subjects, but are still quite practical. These programs are mainly aimed at preparing students for a specific professional field. WO programs, on the other hand, are academic in nature, with a strong focus on theory and research.

Open days, trial study and taster days

Okay. You now have - hopefully - a better picture of yourself. After this preparation, it's time for the most fun, but also the most important things: visiting open days, trial study and attending taster days. Rest assured. It's not a bad thing if you don't have an answer to everything yet. Choosing a college sometimes sounds tougher than it is. Remember that the perfect study choice does not exist. And that switching studies is always a possibility.

Want to find out about or get acquainted with more than one program? If so, it's best to start by visiting open days. Some find that exciting. And sometimes it is. Still, such an open day can make just the difference between "Hmm, maybe not..." and "Yes, this is the one!" You should actually think of such an open day as a sneak peek of your future student life. A sneak peek that gives you the opportunity to gather a lot of information and get a good taste of the atmosphere. Don't forget to ask questions to teachers and current students!

And then, the trial study and taster days. These are the pathways into the world of a real student. But just for one day. You sit in the lecture hall, experience classes and see what everything is like. It's your chance to check whether the material appeals to you and whether the teaching style suits you.

Your study, your choice

In short, making a study choice is a process in which you get to know yourself. You discover where your profile and interests fit. And, in addition, you explore your talents. Take your time and don't be afraid to explore different options. Remember: there is no perfect study choice, but there is bound to be one that best suits you. Be curious, go into the process open-minded and feel free to take a day trip. Are you struggling or would you like to spar with a student? We'll be happy to help.