How Nyenrode Business University Opens Global Doors

Samuel Hernandez always had a plan. Originally from Mexico, he had always wanted to study abroad, gain global experience, and eventually bring that knowledge back home. Today, he is a sales manager at Adyen, one of the world’s leading fintech companies, back in his hometown. His master’s degree journey brought him to Nyenrode Business University in the Netherlands, where he completed the Full-time MSc in Management. But his graduation was just the start of the story. Equipped with a Nyenrode master’s degree, he went on to build a truly global career. Let’s take a closer look at his inspiring Nyenrode master success story.

A Dream With a Clear Purpose

From the start, Samuel’s ambition was straightforward. He wanted to gain international experience, grow in a global environment, and eventually return to Mexico with the right skills and know-how to make a positive impact back home.

He first heard about Nyenrode Business University during his bachelor’s program, while working on a business case from the school. Thoroughly impressed, he remembers thinking: “This is the Harvard of the Netherlands.” (01:03) From that moment, he knew he wanted to further pursue his education at Nyenrode Business University. 

The Full-time MSc in Management stood out to him for its strong focus on business and leadership, tailored career support, and connected community. Additionally, he was an Orange Tulip Scholarship Winner. The school awards it to Latin students who have showcased academic excellence.

Beyond that, the program allows students to choose whether to study in the green oasis of Breukelen or bustling Amsterdam. Nyenrode, a private business school, has two campuses located centrally in the Netherlands. Regardless of which campus you choose, you are close to major cities that are home to many international companies.

Samuel was confident that his time at Nyenrode would open up new opportunities for both personal and career development in the Netherlands, and his path turned out to be exactly what he’d hoped for.

Building a Global Perspective While Studying Abroad

The decision to pursue his master’s degree program abroad at Nyenrode helped Samuel broaden his horizons and gain new perspectives. His cohort included both local Dutch students and international students of different backgrounds. This ensured that he had a multicultural and interdisciplinary student experience.

Moreover, Samuel made the most of campus life. The Nyenrode United Committee, the university’s international student committee, elected him as Chairman. He shares, “I was in charge of welcoming people from all over the world. That definitely broadened the perspective for me.” (01:38) 

His time at Nyenrode sharpened his cross-cultural communication skills, his ability to build trust quickly, and to lead confidently despite differences. 

He reflects, “Studying abroad, working abroad, or having an international experience as a whole, shapes you as a different person… it showed me a lot about myself and about how to develop my own independence.” (01:52)

These are the precise qualities that global employers seek, and they are crucial to building a cross-border career. 

A Career Built on International Experience

After graduating, Samuel joined Backbase, a Dutch company based in Amsterdam, working in the digital banking sector. While working in Amsterdam, he grew professionally and built deep industry expertise. Through the company, he was also able to relocate back to Mexico.

That move was the full-circle moment that he had envisioned since his student days. He was returning home, this time with the skills, experience, and professional network he had spent years building abroad.

A Full Circle Moment at Adyen

Back in Mexico City, Samuel discovered another career opportunity. Adyen, a Dutch-founded global tech company, was growing its regional presence. Samuel’s background in Dutch fintech and his understanding of both European and Latin American business environments made him a natural fit for the company.

He shares, “Of course, Adyen being one of the big tech giants in the Netherlands, I couldn’t miss that opportunity. So I immediately grabbed it.” (00:50)

More than two years later, Samuel continues to thrive as a sales manager at Adyen in Mexico City. The role draws on everything he learned over the past few years, especially the cultural fluency he developed working across two different countries.

What Studying Abroad Really Gives You

Samuel’s unique and impressive career trajectory speaks for itself. But when he reflects on his time at Nyenrode, what stands out is not a job title or city. Rather, it is the study abroad experience itself and how it shaped him.

He shares, “I went away with a dream. I learned a lot. I grew [in] myself. And now that same independence brought me back to the place where I belong. I will always be grateful for my Nyenrode experience.” (02:10)

For international students considering studying abroad, Samuel’s story makes for a compelling case. An international master’s program goes beyond a certain curriculum or campus location. Studying abroad is about developing yourself into an adaptable, independent, and confident professional.

Is the Nyenrode MSc in Management Right for You?

Samuel’s journey illustrates what becomes possible when drive and the right educational opportunity come together. His study experience at Nyenrode was only the beginning of a great career adventure.

Ultimately, Nyenrode Business University has designed the Full-time MSc in Management program for students who are ready to step up. It challenges you academically, helps you to grow personally, and connects you to a lifelong network. For international students in particular, the program serves as a bridge, helping students to reach the professional opportunities of their dreams in the Netherlands and beyond. 

Apply to Nyenrode Business University and take your first step towards writing your own success story.

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