Kingsley welcomes you to Breda
When thinking of Breda, one might think of the vibrant city centre, Valkenberg Park, the terraces or the summer festivals. But for many students, it's primarily the city where they get to know themselves. Kingsley (26) knows all about that. As a born and raised Bredanaar, he decided to return to his familiar city after a short detour to Tilburg. Now, he almost has completed his HBO Nursing degree at Avans University of Applied Sciences and experienced, as he himself says, “the wildest ride of his life”.
Gone away to back home
"I started studying in Tilburg, but I immediately missed Breda," says Kingsley. "I was born and raised here, and only when I left did I realised how great it actually is. Breda has that unique combination of atmosphere, accessibility, and creativity. Avans felt like a good match right away. It's a school that truly shapes you as a person. You don't just learn your subject, but you also learn a lot about yourself."
A city that shapes you
Kingsley describes his student years as intense, educational, and full of contrasts. “It was really a rollercoaster. You are constantly confronted with your strengths and weaknesses.”
What sticks with him the most? “The feeling that you still 'may' learn, fall, and get back up. This is the last period in which you can make mistakes without it having serious consequences. Soon you'll have to protect yourself, but now you can still live a little, discover, search.”
Favorites of Kingsley
Although Kingsley was fully focused on his studies, there was also plenty of room for relaxation. His favourite spot in the city? Valkenbergpark. “There's always a nice atmosphere there. Especially on Thursday, during the open-mic evenings at the T-huis. People with guitars, poetry, just a nice, creative vibe.”
Also, Koffie bij Teun holds a special place in his memories. “I worked for a long time at Albert Heijn, and the owner of Koffie bij Teun often came there. Quite amusingly, I didn't drink coffee back then, and he challenged me to try something. Now I am completely addicted to their chai latte.”
For lunch or dinner, Kingsley often went to Loetje or Ozkan, and anyone seeing him seriously studying would probably find him in the library or secretly upstairs in the Chassé Theatre. “That wasn't always allowed, haha, but it was so quiet there. There are official study areas in the Chassé, but I always secretly sat in the chill corner.”
Underrated Breda
According to Kingsley, Breda has many hidden gems. “The Foodhall for example. Perfect if you're out with friends and everyone can’t decide what to eat. Or the bubble tea spot at the station, you really should go there once.”
Events like Brand Parkies, King’s Day 538, the Jazz Festival, and evenings at de Haven are also part of the authentic Breda experience, in his opinion. His most beautiful memory? “Definitely the Jazz Festival, where my little sister got to perform with her band FUNK U. She even made the paper. That was truly a special moment.”
These tips you need to know
For students just starting out in Breda, Kingsley has a few tips:
1. Explore.
“On a summer day, cycle to the Galderse Meren. A little escape from the city, chilling with friends, some music, the ultimate feeling of freedom.”
2. Try new things.
“Even if you're not a coffee drinker, visit a nice coffee bar. Maybe you'll discover something new, just like I did with chai latte.”
3. Be social (even if that’s scary).
“Download the app Amigo’s. Especially if you don’t know anyone here yet, it’s a great way to meet other students and locals.”
“Breda is a city where you can be yourself AND become who you want to be. Where you make lifelong friends, maybe a few enemies, but most of all: memories that stay with you forever.”
They also welcome you
Curious about more student stories & tips? Read the stories of Lotte, Thomas, and Tara here. They will show you the way!
Are you also a student (were you) in Breda?
Are you a student (or have you been) in Breda like Kingsley and want to share your story? Let us know!
