Lots of people have addressed TIP with their concerns already. One of the big issues that has been highlighted is the lack of campus events and activities after classes and lectures which link Swedish and International students creating a connected community on campus.
The pubs, parties and film nights on campus mostly attract foreign students. This happens for two reasons; first, international students arrive with few social contacts in Stockholm. They are more open to finding a new ‘family’ at the university, made up of all the other International students. Second, Swedish students sometimes feel excluded as parties and events are often advertised for ‘International’ students on the posters at the walls of Södra Huset, or on Facebook. The international students also received a weekly newsletter full of activities, but the Swedish students do not.
TIP recognizes that without students’ participation there will never be activities on campus which to create connectivity between all students. But we also saw that without activity it is hard to get participation from students in the first place. Of course, this could be a vicious circle. This could mean the end of all improvement efforts considering the social network at SU. But with this in mind it could also lead to another conclusion: TIP wants to create a campus community which allows for equal information and participation of all students, Swedish and International.
If you too are interested in helping to make this first step, participate and support TIP’s attempt to build up an inclusive community where everyone is welcome. The reason why you should get involved is simple: without your help the student groups at SU will stay divided. If we just continue complaining about this situation, nothing will change, even if a change could be easily induced. Don’t wait for someone else to begin the movement. It is your university, too. This does not constitute a duty, but rather an opportunity for everyone to volunteer and gain experience.
Share your ideas and commitment to influence the social network at SU!
Christine Schwarz
I agree completely on this one.
ReplyDeleteTo create events for all students regardless of where they are from or how long they have been students at Stockholm University is a great idea. It will bridge the gap between the different sections of students but also increase and build up school spirit and a better atmosphere on campus.