On Monday, the introduction starts for the 160 new international students who will begin their studies at the University of Skövde this autumn. – We are very happy that so many have chosen to study here in Skövde despite the current situation in the world. Now we hope that we will provide them with a fantastic introduction, says Frida Lindgren, International Coordinator at the University of Skövde.
On Monday 23 August, the University's introduction for this autumn's new international students will begin. The purpose of the introduction is to make the new students feel welcome on campus, in Sweden, and in Skövde.
At present, 160 international students have signed up for this autumn's introduction, but Frida Lindgren estimates that more will join during the first week of September. This is more than both last year and what was common before the pandemic, when the number was around 150. Frida Lindgren has worked hard to plan an introduction that works during current restrictions.
– Many of the international students have had a tough situation during the pandemic and may have felt both lonely and isolated. Therefore, it feels extra important that we give them a proper welcome. We want their studies to go well and for them to thrive in Sweden, she says.
Digitally and on campus
During the introduction, the international students will get to know the University and its campus, know more about the University's student support, the Student Union and get to know, and learn how to get around in, Skövde better. They will receive help with course registration, schedules and access to computers on campus. A traditional Swedish “fika” with coffee and a cinnamon bun is also on the agenda.
The introduction will take place both digitally and on campus. The students will be divided into smaller groups, to avoid gathering too many people at once.
– We will use Zoom a lot and only the first day is on campus, but divided so that we are only 50 people in the lecture hall at the same time. We will also constantly remind everyone of the rules and restrictions that apply here, as all students have had different rules to abide by depending on where they come from. We want to make it as easy as possible for students to get into their new student life in Skövde. But we must do it in an adapted and infection-proof way, says Frida Lindgren.
Time to be in quarantine
As usual, there are buddies to support the new students. Even during the social activities that the buddies arrange, the students will be divided into groups to reduce the risk of spread of infection.
– We have also extended our pickup days, where we pick up the students when they arrive in Skövde. Those who come from countries where quarantine is required can therefore arrive earlier, so that they have time to quarantine before 23 August when the introduction starts. It also provides an opportunity for those who want to quarantine to do so, even if they do not have to, says Frida Lindgren.
– I long for this every year and the absolute best part is to see and meet those who have chosen Skövde and Sweden as their study destination. We should be proud that so many choose the University of Skövde and it will be so much fun to meet the students soon!
