BECOME A HOST STUDENT FOR International STUDENTS
Karlstad University collaborates with Karlstad Student Union on social activities for incoming international students as part of introducing them to studies in Karlstad and working for their inclusion in both student life and the wider community.
Why?
The main reason to become a host student for international students is that you get the chance to meet a lot of fun people from all over the world and make friends for life. The international students are here to experience Sweden and meet Swedes, which means they are very open and easy to get to know. If you also want to study abroad yourself, it is a great merit to have been a host student for international students here first.
What?
Being a host student for international students means that you, together with your host group, meet and help the students find their way when they first arrive in Sweden. This can involve everything from meeting them and showing them their accommodation, to organizing a dinner or coffee and socializing in a more relaxed and social setting. You also get to help and participate in the university’s and student union’s various activities for the students, which provides a great opportunity to get to know students outside your own host group.
When?
The international students arrive 1-2 weeks before each semester starts. It is during both or one of these weeks that there is the most to do. During the semester, you are expected to arrange a few activities for the international students together with your host group.
How?
Being a host student usually involves the following tasks:
- Contact all students in your group before they arrive to introduce yourself, get to know them, and see if they have any questions before they come here.
- Meet the students when they arrive at the university during the welcome days.
- In the days just after the students have arrived, it is good if you help them with practical things like bus cards, phone cards, etc.
- When everyone has arrived, and the introduction week organized by the university and the student union starts, your task is to continue to be available if they need help with anything, but also to help with the activities during the introduction. The more activities you can participate in, the better! Examples of activities are guided tours of the city and the university, as well as some social activity.
Above all, being a host student is about getting to know the students and having fun! The international students know how to have fun and make the most of Karlstad, so make sure to take advantage of that.