UM-student Juraj Vitek woont in het moderne studentencomplex StuNest

29 October 2026

Under one roof

Student houses are more than just places to live. They form the backdrop to friendships, personal growth and memories that last a lifetime. In this series, members of the UM community share stories about special student houses. Their experiences show what makes 50 years of student life in Maastricht and beyond so unique.

“I enjoy cooking traditional Slovak food in the dining room.”

Two years ago, Juraj Vitek and his girlfriend watched a new building take shape across the road from where they lived. It was StuNest, the new student complex in Randwyck. At the last minute, he and his girlfriend each managed to secure a studio flat there. Two years on, Vitek, now a master’s student in International Business, has no regrets. He is particularly enthusiastic about his running club and the Slovak meals he cooks for fellow students.

From Slovakia to Maastricht

Vitek knew quickly that he wanted to study in Maastricht. “Problem-Based Learning really appealed to me. I like working in groups and gaining a better understanding by discussing topics together,” he says. “UM also has a good international reputation. I did look at study programmes in Denmark, but it didn’t take me long to decide on Maastricht.”

Initially, Vitek and his girlfriend lived in another building in Randwyck. But when it was earmarked for a different use, they had to find somewhere new to live. At the time, StuNest was being built directly opposite their old building. When the couple heard that there were still a few studios available, they jumped at the opportunity. They applied straight away and were delighted when they were both offered one.

These days, Vitek can often be found in StuNest’s onsite gym. “I also work out at the University Sports Centre, but the gym in our building is great for a quick workout or a bit of stretching.” He also makes frequent use of the laundry and the building’s co-working spaces. “I spend a lot of time in the co-working spaces, especially during exam periods. Fortunately, there’s always a quiet place to study.”

Bio

Juraj Vitek

Juraj Vitek recently completed his bachelor’s in Digital Society at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. He is now studying for a master’s in International Business at the School of Business and Economics. Originally from Slovakia, he has lived at StuNest, a student complex in Randwyck, for two years. His girlfriend also lived there for the first 18 months, until her studies took her to Prague.

Sharing a taste of Slovakia

Vitek’s favourite place at StuNest, however, is the dining room. All StuNest residents can book the space for birthdays and parties. “Every studio has a small kitchen, but the larger dining room is ideal when you’re cooking for a group. I once held a party there where I cooked traditional Slovak food for some of the other residents. The halušky—a type of potato dumpling served with a special soft cheese—went down really well.”

Still, he is pleased to have his own kitchen. “I really like cooking, and I wasn’t keen on the idea of housemates eating things I’d bought specially for a particular dish,” he says with a laugh. “This way, I can keep all my favourite ingredients in my own kitchen.”

Vitek also enjoys exploring the area around StuNest. “It’s close to a park, so there’s always somewhere I can go cycling or running or just spend some time in nature. It’s also great that the university and the UM gym are only two bus stops away.”

Running club

Although Vitek’s girlfriend moved to Prague this summer, he doesn’t feel lonely. “There’s always something going on at StuNest, and there’s a great sense of community,” he says. “For example, some of us have started a running club. We go running together twice a week. All the residents are in a group chat, too. We’re always happy to help each other out, whether someone needs to borrow an ingredient or accidentally left their washing in the laundry. And if someone fancies playing table tennis in the communal area or going out together, they’ll often post that in the group chat too. With so many fellow students around, there’s almost always someone up for doing something fun.”

Text: Romy Veul
Photography: Harry Heuts