Introduction activities for Semester in Amsterdam students

[No registration needed, free of charge]

The Practical Matters Day offers you the perfect opportunity to easily arrange practical matters in a short period of time:  arranging health/liability insurance, opening a bank account or ask your questions to someone from the International Office. You can also pick up your student card here. 

The Semester in Amsterdam team will be present with a booth during the Practical Matters Day 21 August. You are welcome to drop by to meet us and ask any questions you still have.

The Practical Matters Days are free of charge and registration is not necessary. You are welcome between 10:00am and 04:00pm (free walk-in) at the VU Sports Centre, Uilenstede 100 in Amstelveen.

[Registration needed, free of cost]

Location: VU main building (De Boelelaan 1105) - room 'Aula'

Studying at another university can be quite a transition, as the educational environment in the Netherlands is often perceived to be different to that in other countries. Although studying abroad encompasses many different experiences and allows for development on a personal, social and cultural level, we also want you to succeed academically. The aim of How 2 Make it at the VU is to equip you with the knowledge to swiftly adapt to a new cultural and educational environment.

10:00 – 12:00 How 2 Make it at the VU (Including Word of Welcome)

When planning to study in a different country, most students expect to experience culture shock in a social setting. Differences in the academic environment are seldomly considered, however, this can be an issue when starting your studies in the Netherlands. Factors like a different grading system, a high level of independence and interaction with both lecturers and students can play a role in how well you function in and adapt to the new learning environment. In this presentation, Sylvia Glabbeek (trainer in intercultural communication) and Ana Clara Cassanti (lecturer in sustainability and Mixed Classroom facilitator) will provide valuable insights in how to navigate a different learning environment. The presentation will be concluded with a student panel. 

13:00 – 14:00 Crash course Dutch

Koentact: there’s a reason this language school claims to teach Dutch the fun way. Bringing never-ending energy and a large dose of humor to the classroom, previous workshops left all attending students with a smile on their face. After attending the crash course, you will learn some of the basics of the Dutch language, allowing you to pronounce the infamous ‘ggg’ sound, order a drink, and potentially even flirt with a local.

14:30 – 15:20 Jellinek: Navigating alcohol and other drugs, and life as an international student

As an international student in the Netherlands, the city of Amsterdam offers a diverse and vibrant experience. Student life equals trying out new things. While discovering a new city and making new friends, you may become curious about alcohol and (other) drugs. The use of these substances can affect you in many ways. How do you handle social pressure surrounding alcohol? What happens when you take ecstasy while feeling low? Is hanxiety  real? Where can you find reliable information about alcohol and other drugs? And is it true that everyone in the Netherlands is stoned all day? (spoiler: it’s not). Facilitated by experts from Jellinek and Unity Amsterdam, these topics will be explored in a safe environment. Additionally, we will highlight the importance of understanding Dutch laws related to alcohol and other drugs.

15:20 - 15:30 Student wellbeing & Social safety

Join us for a presentation hosted by VU professionals in the field of student wellbeing and social safety. As a student, you may encounter challenging situations which can be heavy and/or require action. This session will cover all the resources and support that VU Amsterdam provides to students.

Information market (free walk-in 12:00 -16:00)

In the afternoon, you can pass by the information market. Here you can find several student associations and organisations (both on a faculty and university level), and also other services VU has to offer such as 3D, StartHub and the University Library.

Location: VU main building (De Boelelaan 1105) – Foyer

VU Tours (several time slots available)

In the afternoon you can sign up for a tour around campus. You will discover the campus in groups. The tours will be facilitated by students and employees.

[Registration needed, free of charge]

During the city day, you and your group will participate in one or two activities: a visit to a museum and/or a scavenger hunt and to conclude we meet-up to end the day together. You can sign up per activity, based on this groups will be made.  

Rijksmuseum (national museum) 

Step back in time and experience the captivating stories of ancient civilisations and majestic artworks in the Rijksmuseum. Wander through stunning galleries that house centuries-old masterpieces, and get inspired by renowned artists. 

The Rijksmuseum visit lasts a maximum of 2 hours in total. Your starting time and location will be mailed to you in the second half of August.  

Scavenger hunt  

Explore Amsterdam like never before! Get ready for an exhilarating quest through the enchanting canals, charming streets, and hidden gems of this vibrant city. Unleash your inner detective and embark on a thrilling journey as you solve riddles, follow clues, and uncover the city's best-kept secrets! 
 
Sharpen your mind and gather your team for a brain-teasing adventure. By deciphering cryptic clues, you will have to find your next destination. Reveal Amsterdam's rich history and culture as you explore its world-famous landmarks. 
 
The scavenger hunt lasts a maximum of 2 hours in total, and has several starting points. Your starting time and location will be mailed to you in the second half of August.  

Meet up  

You've had a long day filled with activities, and now it's time to treat yourself! What better way to end the day than by having a drink or a bite together with your group? We selected two locations in the city centre that we think you will love - Belushi's and Coco's. Here you will be able to meet other groups as well. 
 
Together with your group of the day you can go to the meet-up location assigned to your group. This location will be mailed to you in the second half of August. Drinks and food are not included.

[Registration needed, free of charge]

Sports programme  

In the afternoon various sports/workshops are offered by the VU Sports Centre. You do not need sign up for a specific sport/workshop as everything will be offered on a free walk-in basis. On the day you will find a schedule of everything offered that day, so you can pass by any class you like. 

Sports offered: 

• Kickboxing 
• Boxing 
• Yoga 
• Pole dance 
• Zumba 
• Soccer 
• Volleyball
• Basketball

Culture programme

Join the enriching Cultural Day experience hosted by Griffioen at the OZW building. You do not need to sign up for specific courses; all activities are available on a free walk-in basis. On the day a schedule with all offered classes will be available at the location.

Each course is available twice to accommodate as many as possible. If a course is full, feel free to join another or enjoy our arts and crafts table while you wait. Remember, spaces are first-come, first-served, and full classes mean you may need to try another activity.

You will have the chance to join courses in dance, arts, mindfulness and theatre.

Evening programme: Karaoke 

This night you get the opportunity to convince everyone that you are a star in the making, or just have blast while singing along your favorite song. Karaoke night will be held at Upper East at Uilenstede, the place where most prospective students will live. What a great way to get to know your neighbours’ voice before you hear them singing in the shower. So get your singing skills going at our Karaoke party! 

[Registration needed, 5 euros]

This day we close the international introduction week in style with an amazing party at Melkweg in the city centre of Amsterdam (Leidseplein). 

[No registration needed, this is mandatory for Semester in Amsterdam students]

Catch up on everything you need to know during our introductory presentation on campus. Join us to learn about important practical matters, academic expectations, and essential insights about studying at VU Amsterdam. Learn about all available resources, and get ready to dive into the vibrant experience of student life abroad.

🗓️ Date: Thusday, 29 August

🕒 Time: 10:00 - 11:00 AM (CET)

📍 Location: HG-02A00 (VU Campus, Main Building, Floor 02, Wing A)

Please note that the introduction overnight trip is free of charge and mandatory for all Semester in Amsterdam students. 

Each semester, we organize a special overnight introduction trip just for Semester in Amsterdam students. For the Fall 2024 semester, we will be going to the beautiful island of Texel! Texel (pronounced as 'Tessel') is the largest and most populated island of the Wadden islands, also known as the Frisian Islands, located in the north of the Netherlands. Texel is famous for its sandy dunes, unique mudflats, nature reserves, and the Eierland lighthouse located at the northern tip of the island, which offers sweeping views of Texel and the North Sea. During our overnight introduction trip to Texel, you will have a chance to get to know your fellow students as well as the rich and dynamic culture of a unique part of the Netherlands, the Wadden Islands. This trip is mandatory and free for Semester in Amsterdam students.

Further details about this trip and signing up for the activities you can do during the trip have been shared via email. 

What is the Semester in Amsterdam introduction?

The Semester in Amsterdam introduction is an introduction aimed at getting you familiar with the VU campus, the city of Amsterdam and your fellow students. By participating, you will already know a lot of people before your first lecture (not necessarily from your own programme)!  

Who is the Semester in Amsterdam introduction meant for?

The Semester in Amsterdam introduction is organised for Semester in Amsterdam students who will start their degree programme in the first semester of the academic year 2024-2025 and who have completed their previous education abroad. 

Note: During some activities, you may be grouped with international exchange students in addition to your fellow Semester in Amsterdam students. 

When will the Semester in Amsterdam introduction 2024 take place?

The Semester in Amsterdam introduction is scheduled on, 19, 21, 22, 23, 26 and 27 August. This includes the Practical Matters Days on Tuesday 20 August and Wednesday 21 August. On Monday 26 August there will be an evening programme in addition to a daytime programme. On Tuesday 27 August there will only be a night programme (closing party). 

What are the costs?

The programme/activities are free of charge. Only the tickets for the closing party will cost 5 euro.  

What additional costs can I expect? 

You have to take care of food/drinks yourself. Also do not forget about travel costs/expenses to get to campus or to travel in Amsterdam.

Do I have to attend the whole programme? What if I have other appointments?

Only the Semester in Amsterdam-specific activities are mandatory to attend for Semester in Amsterdam students, these are the Information Session on 19 August and the Overnight Introduction Trip to Texel on 30-31 August. Participation in the remaining activities is not mandatory. Moreover, you can sign up per activity. However, we do advise students to fully participate so you can have the best experience in the beginning of your studies. 

Is there somewhere I can stay overnight?

We do not arrange sleeping places, but we always make sure the programme ends in time to still be able to take public transport. With exception of the Closing party: when registering, please keep in mind that the closing party starts later, which might affect your travel times if you live outside of Amsterdam.

How will I get to know the Dutch culture?

Successful integration into Dutch culture and making our international students feel at home and connected are key values of VU Amsterdam.  In this regard, the Semester in Amsterdam introduction is designed to get you off to a good start. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you participate in the entire programme! 

Moving to Amsterdam to continue your academic career at a university abroad is both an exhilarating and perhaps slightly scary experience. After all, you will be alone in an unfamiliar place. We know it can be difficult to know where to go, what to do, how to organise, and what to prioritise. The Semester in Amsterdam introduction offered by VU Amsterdam plays a role in offering you a soft landing and preparing you for your new life in Amsterdam. 

Is it mandatory to participate in the Semester in Amsterdam introduction?

Only the Semester in Amsterdam-specific activities are mandatory to attend for Semester in Amsterdam students, these are the Information Session on 19 August and the Overnight Introduction Trip to Texel on 30-31 August. Participation in the remaining activities is not mandatory. However, we do advise students to fully participate so you can have the best experience in the beginning of your studies. 

For new international students, this introduction is a fun way to get to know your way around VU Amsterdam and the city better, and to make your first contacts with fellow students. 

How can I register?

Semester in Amsterdam students who will start their Semester in Amsterdam programme in the first semester of the academic year 2024-2025 will receive a newsletter with registration links via mail around 29 July. The registration via the links in this email will open on 1 August 2PM (CET).  

Did you not receive the newsletter?   

1. This could be because you have not yet completed your VU application procedure far enough. So do this as soon as possible! Is your registration at VU Amsterdam fully completed and do you think you belong to this category, but have not yet received an invitation? Then send an email to internationalintroduction@vu.nl  

Until when can I register?

Please note that for most activities there are limited spots available. So do not wait too long to register (first come, first served).  

I registered but want to cancel an activity. How do I arrange this?

Please do cancel your registration if you are no longer interested in an activity, so your spot becomes available for another student. In this case please cancel by sending an email to internationalintroduction@vu.nl.

There are no more spots avaiIable for the activity I wanted to attend, what can I do? 

This is very unfortunate, but we work with limited spots. We do advise you to check the registration links every once in a while as others might cancel and a new spot might become available. 

Religion and the Semester in Amsterdam introduction

VU Amsterdam has traditionally been a university where students from diverse cultures feel at home. We take all religions into account, also during the Semester in Amsterdam introduction. 

I have an allergy, illness or disability; can I participate?

We will do our best to make this introduction accessible to students with disabilities and/or (chronic) illnesses as well. If you want to be sure, please send an email to internationalintroduction@vu.nl and indicate what we need to take into account or what you need help with. We will be happy to help!

What are the house rules on the VU campus and during the introduction?

The VU Amsterdam Campus is smoke-free and we have some rules when it comes to dealing with alcohol on campus.

Furthermore, certain house rules apply during the Semester in Amsterdam introduction. Make sure you read the house rules carefully in advance, because if you do not adhere to them, you will be denied access to the activities during the introduction week. 

What is the privacy policy of the Semester in Amsterdam introduction?

The privacy policy can be found here.