'I was among the first students of this programme'

Navod Yatawara (23) is a fourth-year Electrical Engineering student at Hanze University of Applied Sciences in Groningen, specialising in Energy and Power Electronics. His choice of study began with a broad interest in engineering, automation and energy, and developed into a clear ambition to help shape a sustainable future.

‘’When I was exploring study options, I didn’t have a specific preference for Electrical Engineering, but rather a broad interest in engineering. My fascination with automation and programming certainly played a role, as did my curiosity about the energy sector. For example, I wondered why hydrogen plays such an important role in Europe and how wind turbines actually work. Questions like these drew me further into the field.

When I chose the Netherlands as my study destination, a few people recommended engineering in the north because of the growing sector and the better opportunities for internships and graduation projects. After some research, Hanze University of Applied Sciences emerged as the best choice. The engineering programmes at Hanze combine theory and practice, with projects at real companies and flexible study schedules. Groningen also seemed ideal for both personal and educational growth.

At the start of my studies, I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect, but through the combination of theory, practicals and projects, I have grown tremendously as an engineer. Now, in my fourth year, I can look back on three years full of new knowledge, discovered interests, enjoyable hobbies and inspiring goals that have greatly strengthened my motivation. This way of teaching was new to me compared to my previous schooling, and I had not yet gained practical experience to develop my professional skills. At Hanze, I started immediately with group projects, where I learned to collaborate, manage my time efficiently and give presentations.

At the moment, I am doing an internship with the government project SolarNL, at Entrance and Energy Academy. The programme has taught me how to work professionally with real clients and how to build my CV and LinkedIn profile. What I often tell people is that the programme prepares you for a career with real companies, real challenges and real goals.

Alongside my professional development, studying here has also greatly contributed to my personal growth. I have learned that I can do almost anything, no matter how challenging it seems at first. I discovered niche hobbies and interests that encourage me to try new things. As a Hanze ambassador, I gave presentations during open days, realised that I enjoy meeting new people, and became involved in the student association Amicus Civitas, where I am the chair of the events committee.

What makes these experiences particularly special is that my year was the first to follow this programme. This made it extra exciting, but that very experience helped shape the programme itself. Through my own experiences and feedback from other students, the programme has now become stronger and even more valuable. After almost four years, I am extremely grateful for all the knowledge and skills I have gained. I would recommend this programme to anyone looking to take a step towards a sustainable and technological future, with plenty of opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. My tip: watch a few videos on basic electricity and microcontrollers; it gives a great head start in the first months.’’