“My study life here in Groningen has not only broadened my horizons, knowing that sushi in Japan tastes different, Latin American loves hugging, kissing and dancing, Dutch people don’t drink beers all day”, says Jacky Wang, an alumni ambassador for the University of Groningen as part of UG’s “Common Ground” series.
“It has also allowed me to grow and become a better version of myself”, Yang said during the Summer Ceremony last year. “It has allowed me to sign up for the climbing association to conquer my fear of heights, it has encouraged me to join the student politics campaigns and the Honours College philosophy program to touch upon the topic of western democracy, last but not the least, it has motivated me to talk and to debate with full confidence.
My favorite place in Groningen is the Martini tower. Whenever I look from the top of the Martini tower, I can see a stunning view of the city and the people walking around the Grote Markt. I have a sense of pride, a sense of accomplishment. This is the city I call home.”
The Common Ground series, which was launched in the spring of 2017, shares stories from RUG alumni, whether they graduated months ago or decades ago. The series focuses on the student’s most vivid memories of their years in the lecture halls – and bars – of the city, and is curated by the Alumni Relations and Fundraising office of the university.