Nine students from the University of Zagreb Faculty of Organization and Informatics (UNIZG FOI) and two faculty members, Assoc. Prof. Zrinka Lacković Vincek and Asst. Prof. Suzana Keglević Kozjak participated in the Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program (BIP) “International Communication & AI” organized by Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Business and Economics.
The program gave students the opportunity to experience international collaboration, promote European citizenship and deepen cross-border understanding. During this particular week, the focus was placed on the Dutch cultural context. The program is run in partnership between Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Business and Economics from Netherlands, University of Zagreb Faculty of Organization and Informatics and FHDW Hannover from Germany. After successful complementation, students were awarded 3 ECTS points.
Throughout the week, students worked in diverse international groups on real-world marketing assignments for companies with global operations, including the World Wildlife Fund and Rituals. In addition to these intensive academic tasks, the program featured a rich social and cultural component that enabled students from UNIZG FOI, Germany and the Netherlands to build international networks and collaborate across borders.
The FOI students who participated in this BIP were Patrik Šantek, Sena Kučuković, Gabrijela Korpar, Iva Kostanjevec, Nino Kostel, Elena Pizek, Franka Ivas, Jan Ivančić, and Niki Hercigonja. We have gathered feedback from our students, which we present below, along with a photo gallery.
The week in Amsterdam went by very quickly; we barely unpacked, and we were already at the airport for the return. We had a great time; it was so much fun exploring the city, meeting different people and their cultures, and speaking English almost all the time. I recommend that everyone goes on at least one short Erasmus trip because it’s truly worth it.
Franka Ivas
I can say that the first step is always the hardest, but the experience was completely worth it. There was always some nervousness leading up to this Erasmus, yet once you begin, the whole experience unfolds right before your eyes. With constant collaboration, anything can be achieved and resolved. I was pleasantly surprised by the level of knowledge and skills we, the students from FOI, possess. I believe that the Erasmus experience in Amsterdam will remain a lasting memory.
Patrik Šantek
BIP International Communication & AI was my first Erasmus, but definitely not my last. During the mobility, I met many people who have similar goals as I do. This allowed me to make connections that could one day help me achieve my dream. In these few days, we experienced a new culture, explored the city, and had an unforgettable time. Through this, I broadened my thinking and would love to participate in another Erasmus program with an open mind. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the professors and the FOI International Relations Office for all their help and guidance!
Nino Kostel
The Erasmus experience is one of the dearest memories I’ll cherish for life. Besides the unforgettable fun, I had a wonderful opportunity to see a new city and meet new people and their cultures. It filled me with very positive energy. The entire trip was full of laughter and positivity. Moreover, I gained a new perspective on group work and a better understanding of how people from different places approach certain tasks. I hope I'll have another opportunity to go on a similar trip, just in a different location.
Sena Kučuković
The BIP Erasmus in Amsterdam was an unforgettable experience. Although I had visited Amsterdam before, I hadn’t had the chance to meet local people and truly experience what it’s like to be Dutch, and this experience definitely gave me that. We got to know their culture, education system, and met many interesting people, not only from the Netherlands but also from other countries. After this Erasmus, I feel more confident in my knowledge and have definitely expanded it. I also had the opportunity to connect with FOI colleagues I hadn’t met before, which made this experience even more enjoyable. My only regret is not going on an Erasmus sooner.
Elena Pizek
The Erasmus BIP is truly a unique and unforgettable experience that offers the opportunity to gain new knowledge and apply what we’ve already learned. I would recommend everyone to apply, broaden their horizons, meet new people, and work on very interesting projects!
Gabrijela Korpar
