1. Don't forget to bring your own mug
First things first: the coffee machine, because you can't get through student life without coffee (or tea) of course! đ The machines don't dispense disposable cups, so don't forget to bring your own reusable cup! For the cheapest coffee and tea, head to your own study association, where you can fill your mug for free. Also good to know: the coffee machines provide free hot water and even ice-cold water. Super refreshing during a study session on a warm afternoon!
2. The MyUTÂ app is your personal guide
I remember my very first day on campus well. I started with a practical in the CarrĂ© building, which is quite a maze, especially if you've never been there before. Luckily, I met with a project mate to find the lab together, which we eventually did after some searching. If you are starting your studies this year, youâre lucky! The MyUT app now provides you with an interactive map of the entire campus, including all buildings, restaurants, sports clubs and other facilities. No more getting lost!Â
Still, some lecture halls remain hard to find the first time. Therefore, leave for your lectures on time at the beginning of the module, so you don't have to stress about finding your lecture room.
3. Your timetable is full of abbreviationsÂ
When you receive your timetable, chances are you still have no idea where your first lectures will be: OH, CR, TL... what? The abbreviations are everywhere. Don't panic, with this list of abbreviations, you will always know where to go. This is also how you find out that OH, CR and TL stand for Oosthorst, CarrĂ© and Technohal. And no, the Technohal is not a location for techno parties, but one of the buildings where you might have your lectures soon!Â
4. The lunch break is longÂ
The lunch break at UT lasts no less than one hour and fifteen minutes! This gives you plenty of time to recharge between lectures and grab a nice lunch. Also if you want to take a walk around the campus, study or even plan a project meeting, you can do so during the lunch break!Â
5. You can book your own study and sleeping spacesÂ
Did you know that at uni, you can reserve your own study spaces? This is especially useful when you want to work on group projects. Through Resource Booker, you can easily book a project room (up to twice a week for two hours) in various buildings at the university. Moreover, you can even book a nap pod in the university library for 20 minutes. Perfect for a short power nap between study sessions!Â
6. Sports at UT is done with the UnionCard
With no fewer than 38 sports clubs and 14 cultural associations, there is something for everyone at UT! It is important to know that you need a UnionCard to join these associations. With this card, you also get all kinds of extras. Are you in need of refreshment while studying, for example? With the UnionCard, you can take a free dip in the indoor or outdoor pool on campus! You can also borrow books from the library for free, play pool, use the tennis courts, squash rooms and pop studios, and more. Tip: get your UnionCard at a discount in September or early October!
7. For a tasty lunch, you never have to look far
It is also good to know that almost every campus building has its own restaurant. So, you never have to look far for a tasty lunch or snack! Whether you fancy a sandwich, a pokebowl, brownies or a pizza (from a real pizza machine!), you will find it all on campus. Wondering which restaurant is the best? Weâve tested it for you!Â
8. You will often work on projects
At UT, most studies require you to work on projects. Together with a group of fellow students, you will work on a project every module that is related to the courses you are taking at that moment. Sometimes you get to choose your own group mates, but not always. And yes, sometimes you end up with a group mate you wouldn't have chosen yourself⊠Nevertheless, these kinds of projects are often the perfect way to gain practical experience and learn to work together in various teams.Â
9. The Kick-In typhus is not a myth
During the Kick-In, you get to know the university, Enschede and student life during 9 days full of fun activities and parties. All the new people you meet, the activities, the parties and the lack of sleep make for an unforgettable experience... and probably a little cold afterwards: the so-called Kick-In typhus, which almost every student has to face in September.Â
10. Support is always nearby
Should you ever need help, know that there is always support available. For instance, you can always contact your study adviser, a student psychologist, a dean or a career counsellor. You can also turn to the UT Language Centre for support with academic writing, for example. And of course, your professors are always there to answer any academic questions, too!Â
With this knowledge in mind, you're all set to start your student life at the University of Twente. Good luck and above all: have a lot of fun!
