It is important that all new students are well received, feel safe, and quickly settle in at the university. This is especially true for international students, who may be unfamiliar with Norway, Oslo, and the university itself. This is where the Buddies come in. Around 1,300 current students volunteer to be Buddies, serving as guides and role models for new students, and helping to create a safe and supportive environment at the start of the academic year.
One of the first things the Buddies and new students do together is attend the welcome ceremony at University Square in the city centre. Rector Ragnhild Hennum, Minister of Health and Care Services Jan Christian Vestre, and the Mayor of Oslo, Anne Lindboe, were among those who welcomed the new international students last week.
Take a look below for a taste of the welcome ceremony.
Making new friends
Across campus, various activities are taking place where students can meet, get to know each other, explore Norwegian culture and language, and receive support as they begin their studies.
The International Student Ambassadors hosted a dedicated event for new Master's students, among other things. 'Speed friending' and 'Friend bingo' were also popular events where international students had the chance to connect.
First impressions
The first week of the new semester has been hectic and fun. Campus has been filled with energy, laughter, and big smiles – and the weather has been nice. But what do the new international students say?
Circle U. on campus
No, we haven't forgotten about Circle U. With so many new students coming to campus, it would be a missed opportunity not to let them know about our alliance. Students and staff took turns running the booth on campus during the orientation week. Successfully completing the Circle U. quiz was rewarded with a t-shirt. Flyers, coffee and chocolate was for everyone.
