Why you shouldn’t miss the Introduction Week

I totally get it, saying goodbye to your summer holidays can be tough. I was in the exact same position almost 2 years ago, wondering whether it was worth it to leave my country earlier just for the Introduction Week. But trust me it absolutely is, 100%!! In this blog I will share my own experience during Introduction Week and show you exactly why it’s one of the best decisions you can make as a new student at VU!

Leaving home and moving to a new country where you don’t know anyone is tough and honestly, a bit scary. Before Introduction Week started, I have to admit I was feeling nervous and alone, unsure of what this new chapter would really be like. But the moment I stepped into the VU campus, something changed. I immediately felt a sense of belonging like I was exactly where I was supposed to be. Everyone was so open and friendly, and you could tell that everyone genuinely wanted to meet new people. We played fun games to introduce ourselves to our teams, and by the end of the very first day, I had already made my first friends, friendships that I still have to this day. Later, we had some free time from our teams to socialize with students from other programs and explore the welcome market that VU had set up for us, full of fun activities, booths, and surprises. By the end of the day, I was no longer nervous,I was excited. I couldn’t wait to see what the next day would bring.

Introduction Market at VU Introduction Week

The next day kicked off with a trip to the local zoo, a beautiful and surprisingly peaceful spot right in the heart of the city. It was the perfect place to walk around, enjoy the fresh air, and have fun with our new friends in an exotic setting. After that, we visited La Fabrique des Lumières, a former factory that’s been transformed into a breathtaking immersive light show experience. We had the chance to see a show about Salvador Dali, and it was truly magical, like stepping into a living, moving painting. Getting to explore these local gems made the whole experience even more special. It wasn’t just about university anymore it was also about discovering the city and starting to feel at home in it.

Day three was Sports Day and it was a blast! We got the chance to meet people who shared similar sports interests, practice our favorite activities, and even explore the possibility of joining student sports teams. It was a great way to bond with others in a fun, energetic environment. One of my favorite parts of the day came afterward, when the Student Study Association of my faculty organized a BBQ gathering, where we had the time and ideal atmosphere to have some snacks and drinks with our fellow classmates. It was the perfect opportunity to grow our friend group, meet new people, and celebrate the beginning of this exciting new journey together.

Sports Day at VU Introduction Week

The final day couldn’t be other than the official introduction to our study program. We had the chance to hear valuable advice and tips from professors and older students, all designed to help us navigate the start of university life with more confidence. After the session, we were offered some snacks and had time to chat with our classmates. It was a great moment to share our thoughts, concerns, expectations, and to realize that many of us had the same questions and feelings. It helped create a sense of community and reassurance right before the academic year began.

Finally, the first day of university arrived and to my surprise, I wasn’t scared or nervous anymore. I was surrounded by friends I had met during Introduction Week, and together we felt ready to experience whatever was ahead. We weren’t just strangers starting a new chapter, we were a team! And as time went on, that team grew stronger, more supportive, and truly unforgettable!

I couldn’t be more grateful for Introduction Week. It gave me friendships, confidence, and a real sense of belonging at VU. It turned what could have been a stressful transition into an exciting and memorable beginning. Looking back, I would choose to attend Introduction Week again without hesitation. It genuinely shaped my student life and prepared me for everything that followed. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth it, it absolutely IS !! You won’t just find your way into this new chapter, you might just find your people!