The Code of Conduct (CoC) was created with the primary aim of shaping the relationship between international students and higher educational institutions. It provides a set of guidelines and principles that aim to ensure that international students are treated fairly and with respect during their time in higher education in the Netherlands.
The establishment of the International Student Advisory Board is a significant stride in this direction as it furnishes a platform for international students to voice their concerns and offer recommendations, thereby ensuring that the Code of Conduct is implemented in a manner that benefits all parties. Moreover, the Board also works towards increasing awareness of the Code of Conduct among international students, ensuring that they understand their rights as members of the higher education community. Through these efforts, the Board helps to foster a more inclusive environment for international students in higher education.
For this purpose, this page is devoted to the International Student Advisory Board. The page will be used to inform international students of the work of the Board, provide updates on its activities, and encourage international students to engage with the Board and share their views and experiences. International students will also be able to learn about the Board’s role in shaping policy and advocating for the rights of international students. By working together, the Board, the National Commission, and international students can ensure that the Code of Conduct is implemented in a way that reflects the needs and perspectives of all members of the higher education community.
The foundation for an international student advisory board has been laid in the 2022 version of the Code of Conduct. You can read down below a bit about each of the members. The general e-mail address of the board is: info@internationalstudy.nl
Rauf Mahmud-Zada
Greetings everyone, my name is Rauf, I am from Azerbaijan, Baku. I study Communication Science at HAN university of applied sciences. The main reason that motivates me to be in the Student Advisory Board (SAB) is a desire to assist students with being comfortable and welcomed in the Dutch educational system. Likewise, I strive to raise and spread awareness about the rights that both Dutch and international students have while studying at the Netherlands. Last but not least, SAB strives to increase the quality of Dutch Higher Education System by influencing the regulations and policies regarding the Code of Conduct.
Parker Winkel
My name is Parker Winkel, and I’m a 21-year-old in my final year of a BSc Psychology program at Radboud University Nijmegen. I grew up in Richmond, Virginia, USA.
At age 16, I got an early opportunity to study abroad in Fuchū, Japan for one year. This experience gave me both the determination to pursue longer studies abroad and an enormous respect for migrant students.
I moved to the Netherlands in 2021 immediately after graduating high school. I used some unique strategies to build up a network, got engaged in various international communities, and eventually used these connections to conceptualize the international student party ISEC (the Inclusion & Social Equity Commission), of which I am the Founder & Chair. To better educate myself for this role, I also became involved with the Radboud University DEI Office, where I was eventually employed as a DEI Trainer for student organizations. My focus is giving workshops on social safety and intercultural communication.
In 2023, I was elected to the University Student Council as the party leader of ISEC, and eventually became Chair of Student Wellbeing & Inclusion at the RU. During my council year, my primary role was as the international student spokesperson within the joint assembly. The establishment of ISEC was a response to the abolishment of an appointed seat for international student organizations in our USC. Without ISEC, there would be no assurance of continued international student representation.
The challenges of life abroad are wide, but the opportunities to invoke change are narrow. Community, but not citizenry. Social – but never political – participants. We’re often at the mercy of systems beyond our comprehension or influence. With respect to natural alienation – and especially the recent Dutch political climate – international students deserve a vigorous defense now more than ever.
For this reason, I’m thrilled to have been chosen to serve on the SAB. I hope to ensure that the CoC is upheld with the truest interests of international students in mind, and I cannot wait to start working with others who care so deeply about our internationals.
If you’re interested in connecting, you can find my LinkedIn profile here.
Oksana Smalii
My name is Oksana. I’m an international student from Ukraine. As someone who’s experienced the ups and downs of student life myself, I believe in open conversations, shared experiences, and finding balance along the way. I like helping others grow, learn, and feel at home in their academic journey.
Miguel Hernández
I’m from the Canary Islands, but I currently live in the Netherlands and attend Saxion to study international business. In addition to my studies, I oversee external affairs at SV IManage, represent students on the Central Participation Council and in my academy council. I am passionate about empowering young people and fostering cross border cooperation. I can’t wait to contribute to the development of a more diverse, globally-minded higher education system by bringing the perspectives of international students to the SAB.
Marko Darabos
Hi all! My name is Marko Darabos, I’m from Croatia and currently in my third year of International Business Administration at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. I’m active in both the university and faculty student councils, and I’m especially passionate about improving the experience of international students and helping them feel at home. Always happy to support where I can! In my free time, I enjoy following football and keeping up with other sports.
Bianca Tudorache
Hello! My name is Bianca Elena Tudorache, and I’m a 22-year-old BA student in European Studies at The Hague University of Applied Sciences. Originally from Romania, I’ve always been passionate about international cooperation, civic engagement, and creating inclusive spaces where young people can access meaningful participation.
Since moving to the Netherlands, I’ve actively sought ways to contribute to both student life and policy. At first, I found the differences in the Dutch higher-education academic system quite unclear, but that’s precisely why I’m grateful to be part of a mission that brings clarity and support to other international students who might feel just as I once did.
In parallel, I served for two years as a student representative on the Degree Programme Advisory Committee for European Studies, advocating for more inclusive curriculum development. One of the most rewarding takeaways from this experience was learning how consistent student feedback can shape better outcomes, so happier students begin with better curricula. I’m proud to have contributed, even on a modest scale, to the programme’s upcoming revamp starting in 2026. A reminder that small changes can be life changing.
In a political climate where the needs of international students sometimes take a backseat, I’m honoured to join the Student Advisory Board, a team dedicated to protecting student rights, strengthening the Code of Conduct, and amplifying the fellow international voices.
After all, our success shouldn’t be measured in years, but rather in decades. Therefore, I hope the work we do together could lay a lasting foundation – improving clarity, fairness, and trust in institutions. A meaningfully improved experience for generations of international students to come.
If you’d like to connect, I’m happy to do so via LinkedIn.
Reihaneh Salehi Mourkani
Greetings everyone! My name is Reihaneh Salehi Mourkani, I am a 21-year-old Iranian studnt studying physiotherapy in international class at Saxion university in Enschede.
In addition to my studies, I currently serve as a student member of both the Central Participation Council (CMR) and the Academy Council (AR) at my institution. These roles have given me valuable insight into student representation, institutional decision-making, and the importance of clear communication between students and the university.
I applied to join the SAB because I believe deeply in improving the experience of international students in the Netherlands. The Code of Conduct is a crucial framework that promotes transparency, fairness, and trust—and I appreciate that it empowers students to have a direct impact on education policy. I’m excited to contribute my perspective, collaborate with other members, and support the Commission in strengthening international student engagement.
Nikita Golovanov
Hello everyone! My name is Nick, and I’m currently studying Information Technology and Management here in the Netherlands. Throughout my studies, I’ve been actively involved in university life. I’ve taken part in various councils such as the OC, AMR, and UPC — sometimes even stepping in as a team leader. Recently, I’ve joined the SAB, and I’m excited to contribute to spreading awareness about our code of conduct and student rights among fellow students across the netherlands.
Outside of my academic life, I’m an avid traveler — I’ve visited over 17 countries so far! I also enjoy staying active and love playing sports like tennis and volleyball.
Anna Michelle van der Spek
Hello everyone! My name is Anna Michelle, and I’m half Indian and half Dutch. I grew up in India, and lived there almost all of my life before temporarily moving to the Netherlands two years ago. I am currently pursuing a degree in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence in Leiden university.
Leaving your home to study in a different country is never easy. You’re not only navigating a new academic institution, but also a new culture, language, and a different set of expectations. Having experienced these challenges myself, I’ve become deeply committed to ensuring that international students feel genuinely at home here.
I have been a representative on the University Council of Leiden University as a part of the DSP-SC coalition and currently am the president of the DSP(Democratic Students Party), where I’ve worked to amplify the voices of international students. I wanted to join the Student Advisory Board because I firmly believe that the support systems in place for international students needs to be improved. I’m eager to see what we can achieve together with the other members of the SAB, especially in the context of the current political climate.
If there’s ever anything I can support you with or if you’d just like to connect, feel free to reach out via LinkedIn!
Eoghan McCarthy
Hi everyone! My name is Eoghan McCarthy, and I’m from Ireland. I’m currently pursuing an MSc in Sport Science at the University of Groningen, with a focus on biomechanics, physiology, and performance analysis. Before moving to the Netherlands, I completed my BSc in Sport and Exercise Sciences at the University of Limerick and interned at the Sport Ireland Institute, where I worked across several disciplines supporting elite athletes.
Alongside my studies, I’ve remained engaged in both applied sport science and academic communities — from working with elite athletes and teams to serving on my study association’s Masters Committee. These roles have shown me the importance of communication, structure, and support in helping people from diverse backgrounds thrive.
As someone who came to the Netherlands to pursue academic and professional opportunities, I understand the challenges of settling into a new environment — academically, socially, and culturally. I joined the SAB to support other international students navigating this transition and to ensure their rights, as outlined in the Code of Conduct, are understood, respected, and upheld. I’m excited to contribute to this mission and help create a more inclusive and supportive higher education environment for all.
Jess Jia
Hi, I’m Jess from China. Currently I’m doing Master of Environmental Sciences in Wageningen University& Research. Last academic year, I was a member of Student Council and actively involved in participation. During the participation year, I worked in Sustainability & Integration party and contributed myself in improving students’ life in WUR.
The main reason I want to join SAB is that it gives me the opportunity to further advocate for the rights and well-being of international students. I am committed to ensuring that every student feels supported, heard, and empowered to express their concerns.
Through collaboration with the National Commission and fellow Board members, I aim to contribute to strengthening the Code of Conduct (CoC), with a focus on improving the experience of international students—particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.
My goal is to help shape a more inclusive, transparent, and equitable educational environment. By joining the SAB, I hope to empower all international students to make informed decisions and have clear expectations about their journey as students in the Netherlands.