Webster Groves Students Visit Webster Leiden Over Spring Break

Spring break is a time for discovery — and for a group of students from Webster's Gleich Honors College, it became a week filled with cultural immersion, academic enrichment and meaningful connection. 

Led by professor Dr. Kim Kleinman, eight students, many from the Gleich Honors College, traveled from Webster Groves to the Webster Leiden campus as part of ISTL 2550 - Topics in Global Studies: Exploring Culture and History in Leiden. The students engaged in a week of learning, exploration and eye-opening experiences across the Netherlands. 

Exploring History, Art and Dutch Culture 

From visiting the Mauritshuis and the Anne Frank House to exploring many other cultural landmarks, the students discovered the rich history, vibrant culture and unique beauty that the Netherlands has to offer. 

The group arrived on March 8 and began their visit with a walk through the market in Leiden. That evening, the group gathered for a welcome dinner at the popular P_D Deli Pies and Coffee, where they enjoyed authentic Greek cuisine. 

The following day, students visited the Wereldmuseum in Leiden, where they examined the historical and cultural impact of Europe on the world. Afterward, the group shared lunch and explored some of Leiden’s hidden gems on foot. 

Additional highlights of the trip included a tour of Amsterdam, a visit to the Anne Frank House, and time spent learning about the historical context of the red-light district. Many students found the experience moving, and the information they encountered deeply impactful. 

Later in the week, the group visited the Mauritshuis in The Hague, where they viewed iconic works of art. Students also participated in an engaging lecture on Dutch culture led by Webster Leiden faculty member Bob Zevering. During the session, they compared Dutch and American cultures, gaining valuable insights into the differences between the two. 

One of the most memorable aspects of the trip for many students was exploring the city of Leiden itself. Its hidden beauty and cultural diversity left a lasting impression on the group. 

Overall, it was a week filled with meaningful exploration, learning and reflection for everyone involved. 

Reflections on Life in Leiden 

Throughout the week, students expressed how the experience changed their perspectives.  

“Leiden was beautiful, and spending the week there felt like a dream," said Gleich Honors College student Fran Vagaras Soddano. "The way of life fascinated me, and it seems like it would be a great place to study and live!”  

“I loved the difference in culture and architecture here," shared Kyndal Chapman. "It felt like every culture was appreciated.” The charm of Leiden left a lasting impression on many students, who expressed interest in returning for a semester abroad or full transfer. 

Another student, Lillie Roever, reflected, “My time in Leiden felt like a big step up in my education – actual immersion in the culture opened up my eyes…I can’t recommend it enough!”  

Students were especially struck by the accessibility of transportation and how travel in the Netherlands is very easy to manage, making exploration seamless and liberating. 

Strengthening Webster's Global Community

The success of this program was made possible by the support of Webster Leiden faculty and staff, including Sheetal Shah, Christine Benninger, Lisa Foss and many others who contributed to a welcoming and educational visit. 

Webster Leiden is located in the diverse, beautiful and enchanting Netherlands. The campus offers many opportunities for students from all cultural backgrounds. Its diverse and connected nature allows students to grow into global citizens. 

This week of study abroad, which welcomed students from the Webster Groves campus, was both enjoyable and informative for everyone involved. 

Webster University's global network makes opportunities such as this short-term study abroad trip possible. With campuses in the Netherlands, the United States, Switzerland, Austria, Greece, Georgia and more, exploring the world becomes an exciting and accessible prospect for students. The caring and supportive faculty across Webster’s global campuses help create an environment that fosters extraordinary possibilities for students of all majors.