The University of Amsterdam provides a good combination of ranking (compared to the other European universities) and tuition fees, especially for EU students. Also, living in the city of Amsterdam is a unique experience as it gracefully combines modern comforts with traditional and picturesque scenery.

Regarding the studying facilities, the Roeterseiland location is a modern building that provides all the necessary facilities for studying. The lecture halls have both blackboards and projection screens and Wi-Fi allow you to use your laptop during lectures as well. Near the lectures buildings there is the university restaurant (Agora) along with other restaurants and cafeterias.  What is more, the UvA has various libraries around the city where students can both find reading material and a quiet and comfortable place to study. Aside from the many desktops that are available, students are able to use their own laptops and log in almost everywhere. What is more, one should not miss the opportunity to visit the new public library next to the Central Station where the artistic design of the interior and the magnificent view of the city make studying a different experience.  Finally, the UvA does not have a single campus as the various faculties are scattered across the city. That is actually one of the benefits of the university as students get to know the city better through having lectures, studying and having exams in various locations. 

Regarding the Master, the content of the courses in general provides a balance of research/theory and practical applications. The teaching of IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) was one of the reasons for choosing the Master of Accountancy and Control in the first place, as it enables me to work as an accountant at the international level. Courses such as Management Control, Management Accounting and Corporate Finance provide a solid basis for a career in controlling. However, Sustainability, Accountability and Ethics was the course that intrigued me the most as it is a field unknown to most accountants even though  sustainability is a rapidly becoming more prominent.   The lecturers are highly qualified and experienced in their respective fields and their international background has broadened my views regarding the accountancy profession.  Finally, aside from the individual reading, there are group assignments that required co-operation and helped me develop my communication skills. Also, the fact that there might be students from different continents in one group makes the projects interesting and fun! 

In contrast to the finance sector, accounting and controlling have a quite active job market and the UvA provides its graduates with many opportunities. Students come in contact with prospective employers even during their studies through events organised by the UvA student community. After graduation they can choose to work in accounting, controlling, auditing and finance. My plan for the moment is to start a PhD in order to study sustainability more thoroughly and, perhaps, start a career as an academic. 

In conclusion, the MSc in Accountancy and Control at the UvA will be a life-changing experience as it will upgrade your career and broaden your horizons.