International Student News Blog

New registration procedure

2012-01-26T18:17:00.002+01:00

As from this semester, students enrolled in a programme at the University of Borås must register themselves online for new courses. Click here for more information.

Skiing season kick-off at Ulricehamn

2012-01-25T15:08:00.000+01:00

On Friday 27 January 2012 at 6 pm the slopes at Ulricehamn will be opened for skiing and snowboarding!

Ulricehamn is one of South Sweden's biggest site for alpine skiing. People from Gothenburg, Helsingborg and even Danmark and Germany come here to do downhill or cross-country skiing. As of this year Ulricehamn's skiing centre has 7 lifts and 7 downhill slopes.

Opening hours

Weekdays: 9-16

Saturday and Sundays: 10-17

Open evenings on Wednesdays and Fridays: 18-21:30

Full-day lift tickets: 260 SEK; half-day tickets: 220 SEK

For other ticket options and information please check the webside.

http://www.uc-skidcenter.se/

STARKdagen – the annual labour market day at the University of Borås - 31 January

2012-01-24T17:08:00.005+01:00

The University of Borås and the Student Union arrange every year a labour market day called STARKdagen. This year it will take place on 31 January in Balder (main university building) at 10.00 - 15.00. Different organisations, companies, public authorities and other potential employers then exhibit themselves to attract future employees among the students. You can find a lot of information (only in Swedish unfortunately) at http://www.starkdagen.se/ If you click on ”Årets utställare” you can find a list of all the different potential employers that will be present this year. If you click on the name you can most likely find a description in English about the company or organisation.

Tips on how to successfully find an employer at a labour market day:

Check which exhibitors will be present. Which ones are interesting for you? Make a list and a plan of which ones you are going to talk to.

Prepare what you are going to say. What do you have to offer? Be professional.

If you are looking for a company for your thesis – present an idea to them, don’t expect them to present an idea to you.

Listen to what the needs of the potential employer are.

Take the contact details of the person you talked to so that you can contact him or her afterwards.

Don’t stay too long at one exhibitor – make sure you have time for everyone on your list.

Ask if you can give them your CV or if they want you to send it to them. Bring a few in case.

Don’t walk around and talk to the exhibitors in groups – they are looking for individuals.

Think about what your appearance (clothes etc) says about yourself – how do you want to be perceived? If you are concerned about styling, don’t worry! There will be hairdressers present giving free haircuts!

Public holidays in Sweden 2012

2012-01-24T16:54:00.002+01:00

New Year's Day Jan 1
Epiphany Eve Jan 5
Epiphany Day Jan 6
Good Friday April 6
Easter Sunday April 8
Easter Monday April 9
May Day May 1
Ascension Day May 17
Whit Sunday May 27
Sweden's National Day June 6
Midsummer's Day June 22
All Saints´day Nov 1
Christmas Eve Dec 24
Christmas Day Dec 25
Boxing Day Dec 26
New Year's Eve Dec 31

The impact of the tuition fees on UB's and Sweden's student population

2012-01-20T14:04:00.001+01:00

http://www.thelocal.se/38368/

http://www.hb.se/wps/portal/nyheter/artikel?name=hb_2012-01-20_studieavgift

New semester and a new colleague

2012-01-20T13:51:00.003+01:00

First of all a big welcome to all new exchange students who have started their exchange studies at the University of Borås this semester! Also a big welcome back to all of you who are starting your second, third or fourth semester!

I have a new colleague who will be covering for Friederike at least until the summer. Her name is Kristin Podssuweit and she will work Tuesday-Thursday even weeks and Tuesday-Wednesday odd weeks. Kristin is also German (!) and started her career in Sweden as an exchange student in Borlänge.

kristin.podssuweit@hb.se or internationalstudent@hb.se
+46 33 435 5909
J434

Indian Food Festival 2011

2011-12-14T13:09:00.001+01:00

Organised by Indian students at the University of Borås

No more airport buses Landvetter-Borås

2011-12-05T09:58:00.005+01:00

As of 1 January 2012 the airport buses will stop running between Landvetter airport and Borås (due to too few passengers).

There are a few direct buses going between Landvetter and Borås each day operated by the company Swebus. The only way to buy a ticket for the bus is in advance online on their website: http://www.swebus.se/ Click on the British flag in the upper right corner for English.

You can also take bus number 511 to Landvettermotet and switch to bus number 101 to Borås resecentrum. You might have to wait up to 30 minutes at Landvettermotet before bus number 101 arrives. See http://vasttrafik.se/

Another option is to take bus number 100 to Korsvägen in Göteborg and then take the airport bus (flygbussarna) to Landvetter airport from the same stop. The ride takes about 45 minutes from Borås resecentrum to Korsvägen and 20 minutes from Korsvägen to Landvetter.

For taxi fares see http://www.taxikurir.se/boras and http://www.taxiboras.se/priser/flygtaxi/

Christmas Goodbye Party

2011-11-25T14:03:00.004+01:00

The university would like to invite all international students leaving Borås this semester to a Christmas Goodbye Party (even if you are not leaving but would like to say goodbye to those who are, you are welcome).

There will be a Christmas buffet and Christmas drinks in the Green Cafeteria in the main university building on Wednesday 14 December between 5 pm and 7 pm.

There will also be a “secret santa gift exchange” which means that you will need to bring a wrapped gift (bought for 30-50 SEK) and put it on the “gift table”. The Christmas gifts will then be handed out during the evening.

No registration needed. First-come, first-served.

Meeting with Christian students at the University of Borås

2011-11-23T10:11:00.004+01:00

Jonathan Bergqvist from the Christian student fellowship and Yngve Glans, student priest, are inviting all students at the University of Borås to a meeting.

Thursday 1 December.
16.30 - 17.00
D 211 (close to the quiet room).

A good opportunity for you to meet Christians from all over the world!

CasaSwap - online roommate and housing services

2011-11-22T11:11:00.003+01:00

There is a new online roommate and housing service for students all over the world called CasaSwap.com. I encourage you to use it so that it will be a little bit easier for international students to find housing in Borås!

Lucia celebration

2011-11-18T13:50:00.004+01:00

13 December is the day of Saint Lucia, which is celebrated in a very special way in Sweden. On this day (or a day close to this date) people gather early in the morning to eat ginger bread cookies (pepparkakor) and saffron flavoured buns (lussekatter), while watching and listening to a procession headed by a “Lucia”. She wears a white gown with a red sash and a crown of candles on her head. Her handmaidens, also dressed in white, each hold a candle. They sing Christmas carols and songs about Lucia. It is also a form of annual beauty contest where each city appoints a Lucia. There is also a national Lucia competition. You can read more about the tradition and the history of it here.

International students are kindly invited to celebrate Saint Lucia (together with the staff of the university) and listen to the Lucia of Borås and her handmaidens on Monday 12 December between 7.30-8.30 am in the Green cafeteria (note the starting time). If you would like to attend this celebration, please register no later than 5 December at 3 pm with me in room J434, on the fourth floor in the library building. There will be a list on the door where you can put down your name.

I really recommend that you attend this celebration since it can be a very nice and very "Swedish" experience!

Survey: Study in Sweden - and then?

2011-11-15T17:44:00.002+01:00

A survey has been sent out to international degree students at UB. This survey is part of a research project across five European Union (EU) countries, carried out by the Expert Council of German Foundations on Integration and Migration (SVR) in Berlin and the Migration Policy Group (MPG) in Brussels. International students in five EU countries will be asked to participate in a survey about their experiences of studying abroad and their migration plans for after they graduate. With the results, we aim to better understand the experiences, needs and concerns of international students. Your opinions will help us to advise policymakers and university officials. The survey is intended for citizens of non-European countries who are enrolled at and expect to graduate from a university in an EU-member state. Students who have recently graduated are also eligible to take part.

Student representatives

2011-11-01T13:15:00.002+01:00

Student representatives have now been appointed. Check your inbox for a list with names.

They are your representatives. If there is something you think should be addressed and discussed in their meetings you should contact one of the representatives. This could be anything affecting international students. About your programme, your courses, your class, social environment, or something affecting international students in general. All suggestions of improvements (and preferably possible solutions) are welcome.

Updating your contact details

2011-10-28T13:04:00.003+02:00

If you have moved to another address since you first registered at University of Borås, you need to inform us about this. Please, log on to “My Account” and make sure that your contact details are up to date. The account is connected to the LADOK system, which means that address changes made there will automatically be sent to the LADOK database, from where the university staff can view the data.

You can however not change identity numbers in My account. If you have received a Swedish personal identity number after starting your studies at UB you should exchange this number for your University Identification Numbers as this will for example make registering for exams easier. You should bring a personbevis from the Tax Agency (Skatteverket) or a copy of a Swedish ID card to the Student Centre, and they will inform LADOK.

Also make sure that the university library has your correct e-mail address so that they know where to send messages about overdue loans.

When applying for an extension of your residence permit at the Swedish Migration Board it is also very important that they have your correct contact details and personal details. Otherwise it will take much longer for you to receive their decision.

Apply for autumn semester 2012

2011-10-26T14:59:00.005+02:00

UB programmes for autumn 2012 are already open for application! Applications are made at universityadmissions.se - the new website for application to university studies in Sweden (formerly studera.nu)

The current selection of programmes at the University of Borås can be found here, as well as information on fees, tuition fee waivers and admission requirements.

Start your own business in Sweden

2011-10-21T10:42:00.004+02:00

Drivhuset is an entrepreneur foundation that help students to pursue and run projects, develop ideas and start a company during their time of study.

On Thursday 27 October at 5 pm - 7 pm they are offering an information session on the basics of starting and running a business in Sweden. The event is held in English and is free of charge!

Place: Drivhuset, Nybrogatan 9A, 3rd floor, Borås

These are some of the questions that will be discussed:
- What are the components of a business idea?
- How do I start a company and what steps do I need to take?
- What kind of support can I get in order to develop my business idea?

You sign up by clicking here!

Welcome to Drivhuset!
www.drivhuset.se

Insurance for exchange students from outside the EU

2011-10-21T10:34:00.006+02:00

Exchange students (students from our partner universities) coming from outside the EU/EEA are insured through "The Swedish State's Insurance for Foreign Students in Sweden". This insurance only covers emergency health care (including emergency dental care for a cost of maximum 3000 SEK). It does not cover property or losses from burglary, robbery, and other theft. So if you don't have a private insurance for this, it could be good to get one (for example a travel insurance from your home country) and make sure to be careful with your things!

The proposal about residence permit for jobseekers

2011-10-14T10:51:00.002+02:00

At the end of March 2011 a proposal about letting students with residence permits stay for six months in Sweden after their graduation to search for jobs was presented. There are some rumours going that this has already come into force. This is not the case. The rules have not yet changed. This is still only a proposal.

The only way now for students with residence permits to stay and search for jobs after they are finished with their studies is to apply for a residence permit "to visit". But if they are then offered a job they need to apply for the work permit from their home country. It cannot be done from Sweden.

Clarification about driving licenses

2011-10-13T16:35:00.002+02:00

If you come from outside the EU you need to apply for an exemption to continue using your foreign driving license after one year, even if you have an international driving license (which is only an interpretation of your national driving license).

Reminder to all students from EU countries

2011-10-12T17:46:00.002+02:00

You need to register your right of residence with the Swedish Migration Board. You can read more here.

Places left for the Swedish language courses starting in October

2011-10-12T17:38:00.002+02:00

There are still a few places left for the beginners course starting 21/10 and the continuation course starting 28/10.

Apply before 18/10.

More information can be found at www.hb.se/swedishforstudents

Cinnamon Bun Day

2011-10-04T16:43:00.002+02:00

Today is Kanelbullens dag! So make sure to have a cinnamon bun. I found a good article about it here.

Are you interested in becoming a student representative?

2011-10-03T17:19:00.001+02:00

I am looking for students who are willing to actively engage in dialogue with both students and staff at the university on issues affecting the education and life of international students in Borås.

What does a student representative do?
Being a student representative will entail a minimum of a few hours of work per month. There will be approximately three meetings per semester with me, where I will also invite people from the university and Borås, depending on the topic. As a student representative you will be a point of contact for students who have suggestions or problems, and communicate this at the meetings.

What do I get as a student representative?
In addition to making meaningful contributions to the improvement of the university and your department, being a student representative can give you important communication and leadership skills and build your CV. All student representatives will receive certificates of participation.

How are student representatives elected?
The student representatives should represent different departments and programmes, and should be both exchange students and degree students. If the interest is big, I will choose the representatives on a first come first served basis.

If you are interested, send an e-mail to internationalstudent@hb.se and state your name and studies and the starting and finishing dates of your studies at UB.

Student Fair at the University of Borås

2011-09-13T15:42:00.003+02:00

On Friday 16 September the Student Union organises a fair for all students at the University of Borås. The purpose of the fair is to show new students what the city of Borås has to offer students besides the university. Representatives of the different sections of the Student Union, organisations, employment agencies and trade unions, will be present.

Time: 09:00 - 15:00

Place: Main building, entrance floor and 3rd floor.

Information about Student Travels with Scanbalt Experience

2011-09-13T15:33:00.004+02:00

(Scanbalt Experience is a private travel agency and does not have any affiliation with the University of Borås. For questions about their travels, contact them directly)

Welcome to Scanbalt Experience

We hope you will have a great time in Scandinavia. To learn about the region is an essential part of the Erasmus experience and travelling is a great way to do that. Scanbalt trips are good, inexpensive and fun options. We are the experts on student travels and with us you experience things you don’t do on your own!!!

Russia Tours
Visa Free Russia is a great destination for students! The 7 Days Balalaika and Vodka tour including Stockholm, Tallinn, St Petersburg and Helsinki. You will travel with boat between the cities and spend 2 nights in St Petersburg.
Price: 288 Euro Write SUPERSTUDENT as campaign code to get that price
Depart September to November, first departure September 24
http://www.scanbaltexperience.com/The-Balalaika-and-Vodka-Tour

Lapland Tours
Experience unique nature and kick ass activities in Northern Scandinavia. Dog sledding, The Ice Hotel, Sauna with Arctic Swim, visit the Sami people and eat rein deer, Northern lights…. Most tours are 6 days long. You can find the Lapland tours as student’s special Lapland Express and the ordinary as Magic Lapland Tour on which you have discounts.
Season: November-March
http://www.scanbaltexperience.com/Lapland-Express

Scanbalt International Student Cruise
On October 24th there will be a ship going from Stockholm to Tallinn with 2000 international students. The cruise is organized by Scanbalt Experience and different student organizations. It will be one of the biggest parties of the year. The booking will open September 5th. http://www.scanbaltexperience.com/Student-Party-Cruises-2

Discounts
To get the student discount on tours you need to write STUDENT as campaign code already when booking. Note that students from universities which co-operate with Scanbalt get an extra discount on some tours if you use the campaign code SUPERSTUDENT. These discounts are on the ordinary tours and not the student specials.

Facebook
Join the group Scanbalt Student Travels to stay updated regarding tours and special offers. Do not forget to invite you friends!

Happy Travels
The Scanbalt Team
www.scanbaltexperience.com
info@scanbaltexperience.com

Would you like to take part in a fair about exchange studies?

2011-09-07T14:47:00.002+02:00

On 20 September the university is organising an event for domestic students who are interested in studying abroad, especially through the Erasmus exchange programme. We are now looking for international students who are interested in participating in a fair where they can present their country and answer questions from students. The presentation could consist of things you brought from home, or a flag so that the participants can identify which country you are from. You don't have to be an exchange student, although exchange studies is the main theme for the event.

Each country can get one table (and there is room for about three participants per country). There will be a buffet with food and drinks after the fair.

Time and place: Tuesday 20 September at 17.30 outside Sparbanksalen

If you are interested, please send an e-mail to emma.bergstedt@hb.se before 16 September.

Did you miss the introduction?

2011-09-07T14:37:00.003+02:00

There will be an extra introduction presentation tomorrow for international students who missed the introduction during the week before the start of the term.

Time: 15.00 - 17.00
Place: H302

Welcome!

Catalogue of Activities at Student Services

2011-09-01T15:51:00.004+02:00

You can find a new catalogue of courses, workshops and other activities at Student Services here. Remember that for most of the activities you need to register in advance at "Current Courses" on www.hb.se/blr

Courses in Borås

2011-08-31T17:48:00.002+02:00

To take a course outside the university (in for example photography, dancing or cooking) can be a good way to get to know other people and to practice your Swedish or English.

These are schools in Borås that offer courses like this:
http://www.folkuniversitetet.se/ (also offers Swedish language courses in Borås)
http://www.abf.se/ (offers Swedish language courses in Göteborg)
http://www.sv.se/
http://www.medborgarskolan.se/
http://www.sensus.se/
http://www.studieframjandet.se/

If you have a Swedish personal identity number you can study Swedish free of charge at SFI (Swedish for Immigrants). You can read more about SFI in Borås here.

Welcome and Some Information about the Swedish Courses

2011-08-30T09:28:00.003+02:00

First of all, a warm welcome to all new students starting (and a welcome back for the ones who are continuing) this autumn term! I hope that you all had a safe arrival and that Borås and Sweden are treating you well. I also hope that you attended the introduction days last week and that you found them useful.

As you know, there were some problems with exchange students and registration. Exchange students cannot register themselves online for the Swedish language course. It will be done manually during the first day of the course (Ewa Rolling will take attendance and register the students present). More information about the Swedish courses can be found here: www.hb.se/swedishforstudents

New Information about Driver's Licenses

2011-08-17T17:05:00.003+02:00

Students with a driver's license from outside the EU

Students with a driver's license from a country outside the EU are allowed to drive in Sweden for a period of one year after the date you have officially registered (folkbokfört) at the Tax Office and received a Swedish personal identity number. Notice that the date is not from when you arrive in Sweden, but from when you receive your number. After this time you need to get a Swedish driver's license or apply for an exemption as an international student. Note that getting a Swedish driver's license is a complicated, fairly time consuming, and expensive process.

How to apply for an exemption:

Students with a license from outside the EU are allowed to apply to renew the length they can drive on an exemption that they will stay here for only a limited time. This only applies if you are not planning on staying in Sweden after your studies and does not grant any kind of permanent license. The application requires an application to the Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) and an non-refundable application fee of 600 SEK.

Send the following to Transportstyrelsen 701 97 Örebro:
- A letter explaining why you want an exemption. Include your contact details.
- A letter from the university stating the length of your admittance to the university and that you are a student
- A copy of your driver's license

They will send you an invoice for the fee of 600 SEK, as well as more information about your exemption.

For more information you can see the website of Transportstyrelsen as well as Körkortsportalen.

Summer holidays at the International Student Services

2011-07-07T18:04:00.002+02:00

The International Student Services will be on summer vacation for the next few weeks:

Emma Bergstedt: 9 July - 31 July
Friederike Schöne: 16 July - 7 August

You are welcome to visit us again in August!

Happy Midsummer!

2011-06-23T11:17:00.004+02:00

Tomorrow is Midsummer Eve, one of the main Swedish traditions, and personally my favourite! Here you can read about how it is usually celebrated. There will be (at least) two traditional Midsummer celebrations, with dancing around the maypole, in Borås. One in Ramnaparken and one in Almenäs, both starting at 1 pm. Tomorrow is not a public holiday but most people are off work, Midsummer's Day on Saturday however is a public holiday. Glad midsommar!

Ascension Day and Sweden's National Day

2011-06-01T17:02:00.001+02:00

Two public holidays in Sweden are coming up. Tomorrow is Ascension Day which is a Christian holiday celebrating Jesus’ ascension to heaven. It always occurs on the sixth Thursday after Easter Sunday. On Monday 6 June it is Sweden’s national day. You can read more about it here. In Borås there will be festivities at Seglora bygdegård at 2 pm and in Stadsparken at 3 pm. Friday is not a public holiday but a so called “klämdag” (a day between a holiday and a weekend – in Swedish “squeeze day”), which means that many people will be off work, giving them a long weekend.

Are you leaving Borås?

2011-05-20T15:20:00.002+02:00

The time to go home is fast approaching for many of you. While exams are likely to be on your minds I would like to remind all students of a few tasks that need to be done before you go home.

1. Give notice to your landlord. If you do not give notice in advance you risk having to pay more rent, in some cases a couple of months worth of rent (check with your landlord how long the time of notice is, for AB Bostäder it is one month). So please contact your landlord as soon as possible to inform them you are planning on moving out. Don't forget to return your keys as well.
2. Return your access tag. Please return your access tag. During opening hours you can leave it at the Student Centre.
3. Return your library books and your library card. Make sure to return any books you have borrowed and to return your library card. Speak to the personnel at the information desk of the library to return your card.
4. Transcript of records, confirmation of studies, other documents. Do you have any documents you need printed or signed before you leave?
5. Fill out the survey for international students. The survey is available at: http://tiny.cc/hqz5h
6. Go to the goodbye party and visit the zoo (see below)

I hope you have had a good time at the University of Borås and I wish you the best of luck in all your future endeavors!

Goodbye Party

2011-05-20T15:15:00.004+02:00

The University would like to invite all international students leaving Borås this semester to a Goodbye Party. There will be food and drinks and some entertainment!

When? Monday 30 May at 6 pm
Where? Red Cafeteria in the main University building

If you would like to attend, please send an e-mail to Claudio: s095540@student.hb.se

Visit to the Zoo - Goodbye Gift from UB and the ISC!

2011-05-20T15:08:00.011+02:00

The International Student Services and the International Student Committee would like to invite students leaving the University of Borås after this semester to a visit to the famous Borås Zoo!

When? On Sunday 29 May at 12.00
Where? Alidelundsgatan 11. Meeting outside the zoo entrance at 12.00 sharp.

If you would like to join the zoo excursion send an e-mail before Friday 27 May to Ubaid: ubaidurrehman2@yahoo.com Important to sign up and be on time in order to get in for free! NOTE: There is a limit to the amount of places! First-come first-served!

Website of the zoo: http://www.boraszoo.se/
Feeding times: http://www.boraszoo.se/matningstider/

Guide on How to Extend your Residence Permit

2011-05-20T15:06:00.000+02:00

A comprehensive guide on how to extend your residence permit as well as answers to many common questions can now be found on the UB website: http://tiny.cc/d77et (under Extension of residence permits)

Information on Extending your Residence Permit

2011-05-06T10:43:00.000+02:00

Do you want to know how to extend your residence permit? Or do you have other questions about residence permits? Then you should come to seminar room H503 on Friday 13 May at 12.15. I will give you information and answer your questions. If I don’t have the answer I will contact the Migration Board for you to provide you with the information.

Photos from the International Bazaar

2011-05-06T10:37:00.002+02:00

Check out the news on the UB website!

International Bazaar 4 May

2011-05-02T16:14:00.002+02:00

Happy Walpurgis!

2011-04-29T14:11:00.002+02:00

Tomorrow 30 April is Walpurgis night or Valborg in Swedish (short for valborgsmässoafton). Valborg is a pre-Christian tradition celebrating, among other things, spring. People go out and watch the local bonfire, listen to choral singing and maybe participate in games. Valborg is also known as a big partying night for teens. The name Walpurgis or Valborg comes from the Saint Walpurga who was canonised on 1 May (ca. 870). The night is followed by 1 May which is a public holiday in Sweden. May Day is synonymous with International Workers' Day, or Labour Day, a day of political demonstrations and celebrations. You can read more here.

There will be a traditional Walpurgis celebration at Stora Torget in Borås. I encourage you to go and listen to the music and then visit the local bonfire. You can usually find the locations of the bonfires in the local newspaper.

Happy Easter (a bit in advance)

2011-04-14T15:04:00.008+02:00

21-25 April is Easter weekend this year (Friday 22 April and Monday 25 April are public holidays). Easter in Sweden is usually celebrated at home with relatives, eating a traditional Easter lunch or dinner (for example, fish, eggs and potatoes). It is quite a secular holiday in Sweden compared to other countries where Easter is a Christian holiday (there is also the Jewish Easter: Passover) celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. There are however some Easter activities in churches in Sweden. Another Easter tradition is for children to dress up as Easter witches and go from house to house in the neighborhood and give out drawings in return for sweets (sort of a Swedish “trick or treat”). You can read more about Easter holiday in Sweden here. In Borås there will be an Easter parade on Saturday 23 April. Both Friederike and I will be on holiday as from tomorrow until next Monday (15-26 April). We’re back at the office on Tuesday 27 April!

New Colleague

2011-04-14T14:05:00.001+02:00

The International Student Services have expanded! Friederike Schöne started last week and will work part time as an international coordinator, mainly focusing on accommodation issues for incoming international students. We share an office (J434) and her office hours are: Tuesday-Thursday 7.30-14.15.

Friederike is German and has been living in Sweden for the last three years. She has been an exchange student both in Australia and in Sweden and has been working in the field of international higher education for several years. You are warmly welcome to contact her if you have questions about accommodation. She can also give you good tips if you’re planning on visiting Germany!

Friederike.schone@hb.se
+46 33 435 5909
J434

Last chance to sign up for the International Bazaar

2011-04-08T16:14:00.002+02:00

Students from the following countries have entered their participation: Vietnam, Nigeria, Pakistan, Estonia, Thailand, China, Sweden, Indonesia and Romania. Do you want to join your compatriots or do you feel like your country is missing? Then send an e-mail to me emma.bergstedt@hb.se before 13 April.

UB iPhone app

2011-04-06T14:54:00.001+02:00

Do you know about the University of Borås iPhone app? Check it out here.

News from Scanbalt Experience

2011-04-06T14:31:00.002+02:00

The Fjord Explorer - a trip from Gothenburg to Norway 15-20 May Read more here.

Places left

2011-03-17T16:17:00.004+01:00

There are still some places left for the beginner's course in Swedish starting end of this month! Informatics students studying the two year programme who have a "gap" this semester can also apply. Apply before Monday. www.studera.nu

If you have already started the course but did not finish it, you have the chance now! You don't need to apply, but should contact the course administrator.

www.hb.se/swedishforstudents

International Bazaar - Meeting Tomorrow!

2011-03-09T08:50:00.000+01:00

Tomorrow Thursday 10 March we will meet in H503 at 4 pm (16.00) to further discuss how we can organise the International Bazaar 4 May. Everyone who is interested in participating in the bazaar is welcome!

This Wednesday: Seminar on Personal Branding

2011-02-28T11:35:00.003+01:00

Your reputation is your brand which is your life – How well do you know your own personal brand and professional reputation?

Per Frykman, writer, speaker and expert on personal branding, offers international students at the University of Borås a presentation and discussion on the concept of personal branding and how you can use it in your career.

Time: Wednesday 2 March, 13.30 – 15.00
Place: J 2519

New Swedish Language Courses

2011-02-28T11:25:00.002+01:00

End of March and beginning of April two new Swedish language courses will start - one beginner's course and one continuation course. The application deadline is 21 March. For more information on the courses and how to apply see www.hb.se/swedishforstudents

Information from Scanbalt Experience

2011-02-28T11:17:00.007+01:00

Scanbalt Experience is the expert on budget tours for backpackers and students who want to explore Scandinavia and the Baltic Region. Many exchange students says that their Scanbalt trip was the highlight of their stay in Sweden.

Lapland Express Book now!!!
This is the perfect tour for those who have less than a week for travelling but want to see Lapland. The group spends two nights in Kiruna and one in Abisko National Park in Swedish Lapland. There are enough time for awesome adventure activities like dog sledding, visit the Ice Hotel, experience sami culture and loads of other fun stuff!!! March 15th

The Fjord Explorer
Join this trip and experience the stunning fjord region in Norway. You will have time to see beautiful fjords, glaciers, the capital Oslo and the Atlantic city Bergen. Departure May 15th

Student Cruise
On April 18th there will be a ship going from Stockholm to Riga which is for 1800 international students. The cruise is organized by Scanbalt Experience and different student organizations. It will be one of the biggest parties of the year. Info about booking will be sent out to you.

Go to Russia
From April we will offer Tours to the amazing former capital of Russia ST Petersburg. It will be a great trip for having good fun but also to explore one of the most interesting cities in Europe and learn about Tsars, the revolution and historical characters. The trips will be made by boat and your will have two nights in St Petersburg and a bonus stop in Tallinn. THE TRIP WILL BE VISA FREE!!! Departure May 8th, 15th and 29th but more departures will come.

Discounts
As Borås students you also get different DISCOUNTS on our ordinary tours!!!
If you like to travel with our ordinary tours where you also meet other young travelers than international students you get discounts. You get the discount automatically and note that you can’t claim the discount after booking.

Facebook
Join Scanbalt on Facebook and get important info first of all: Scanbalt Student Travels 2010-2011. There you also find events for the different tours.

Happy Travels

http://www.scanbaltexperience.com/

info@scanbaltexperience.com

Reminders

2011-02-17T10:54:00.002+01:00

EU citizens: Registration with the Swedish Migration Board

Swedish language learners: Practice your Swedish at Medspråk

Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T15:18:00.004+01:00

Today 14 February is Valentine's Day which is celebrated all over the world in honour of love and affection. In Swedish, Valentine's Day is called the Day of All Hearts (alla hjärtans dag) and you can read more on its history and how it is celebrated here.

Would you like to take part in an International Bazaar?

2011-02-14T15:09:00.002+01:00

Do you make handicrafts, clothes or other things you would like to sell? And/or would you like to present the country and culture you come from?

Then you should take part in an International Bazaar in May!

Last year International Student Services together with the ISC and international students organized a Cultural Day which was very much appreciated. The fair was organized by students from many different countries as a way to celebrate the cultural richness at University of Borås and to give students the opportunity to share their cultures and create a meeting platform. The participants offered food and performances (dance, Kung Fu, yoga) as well as music and henna tattoos. The Cultural Day was also visited by Rector Lena Nordholm, who held an inspiring speech and expressed her wish to make the Cultural Day a regular event.

So I would like to also this year take the initiative of organizing a Cultural Day, but this time combining it with a market! It has come to my attention that a lot of the international students at UB make their own handicrafts and clothes, and would like to have the opportunity to sell their merchandise. (But if you don’t have anything to sell you can just as well participate and present your country).

The preliminary date for the bazaar is 4 may, outside the University library.

If you would be interested in taking part in the international bazaar please email me, emma.bergstedt@hb.se and let me know if you would like to sell something and/or if you would like to promote you country and culture, and how. Each country will get funding for food and decorations but not for material to make things to sell. You will also receive a certificate of participation.

I will need your answer before 3 March. I will then call for a meeting where we can discuss further how to arrange the bazaar in the best way.

Student Trips and Other Social Activities

2011-02-09T10:11:00.003+01:00

The University does not organise student trips for international students but can help with funding and advertising of social activities organised by the International Student Committee. If you have an idea of a social event that you would like to arrange together with other international students you can contact Thomas, chairman of the ISC: tarens_173@hotmail.com

There are also several different travel companies and organisations that specialise in trips for international students:
http://www.scanbaltexperience.com/
http://www.abisko.net/
http://roadtrips.esnsweden.com/

Let me know if you have more tips!

Happy New Chinese Year!

2011-02-03T15:26:00.003+01:00

The Chinese New Year of the Rabbit starts today, 3 February 2011. Chinese New Year is also known as the Spring Festival which is one of the main Chinese celebrations of the year. Regional customs and traditions concerning the celebration of the Chinese new year vary widely, but it involves food, presents and decorations. Windows and doors are often decorated with red colour paper-cuts (I have one on my window that I received from Grace, the International Coordinator at the School of Business & Informatics).

If you would like to inform the students about celebrations in your part of the world, send me (Emma) an e-mail and I will post it on the blog.

Welcome

2011-02-02T15:18:00.003+01:00

We're already in February and some of the new international students have been in Borås more than three weeks. I hope that you've settled and are enjoying your studies and new life in Borås. To both new and old students: Welcome to a new semester! And to all student buddies: Thank you for all your hard work during the introduction!

(For more photos by Alvi and other Student Buddies check out the Facebook page)

Scholarships at UB

2011-01-26T15:27:00.006+01:00

As of next semester, all Swedish universities are required by law to charge tuition fees from students who are citizens of countries outside the European Union, the European Economic Area and Switzerland. There are, however, some exceptions to this general rule. Two exceptions are students who study within an exchange programme and students who started a degree programme before autumn 2011 (they will be allowed to finish their degree without having to pay fees). You can read more about the tuition fees here.

The University of Borås can offer half or full scholarships to highly qualified students required to pay tuition fees. The scholarships can only cover tuition fees and not costs of living (the scholarship will not be paid out in cash but reduce the tuition fee). You need to be admitted to the study programme for which there is a scholarship and to have paid the application fee. Note that the awarding of scholarships will be based on study records and qualifications.

The Swedish Institute also offers scholarships to highly qualified students from 12 developing countries with which Sweden conducts long-term development cooperation.

You can read more about the scholarships and the application process here.

Change of Rooms

2011-01-26T10:08:00.002+01:00

I have swapped rooms with study counsellor Susanne Sabel and I now sit in J434 on the same floor. Welcome!

Practice your Swedish at Medspråk

2011-01-17T17:35:00.006+01:00

Next week Medspråk will start its Swedish conversation groups again (on 25 & 26 January)! The conversation sessions will take place every Tuesday and Wednesday at 15.30-17.30 ("drop in", you can arrive later and leave earlier if you like to) in rooms J521 and J522 (in the library). You can attend either Tuesdays or Wednesdays or both days (and you do not have to choose one day and then stick to that).

About Medspråk:
Are you learning Swedish? At Medspråk you can get help and support! You will get the opportunity to meet and talk to native Swedish speakers and to improve your spoken Swedish. There are no lessons, homework or tests. Just conversations where we will, in a relaxed and easy way, talk about everyday life. No fee. Everyone, irrespective of level in spoken Swedish can come and join us! Enter your participation by sending your name and e-mail address to easyswedish-boras@live.se
Welcome!
Medspråkarna
(Medspråk is organized by Medborgarskolan in Borås)

Second hand shops in Borås

2011-01-17T11:23:00.003+01:00

Are you in need of furniture and/or household utensils? There are several second hand shops in Borås which will offer you this for a low cost.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………

Emmaus (Clothes, books, household utensils and much more)

Directions: It is located at the shopping area “Knalleland” just next to the store “Ö&B” and the grocery store “Willys”. It takes no more than 10 minutes to walk there from the university. You can take bus 1 towards Sjöbo or bus 3 towards Ishallen, from Södra Torget (“the Bus square”), get off at the stop “Bergslena” (takes app. 5 min) and then walk in the direction of “Willys” and “Ö&B”. Look for a big yellow brick house.

Opening hours:
Monday-Friday: 10am-7pm
Saturday: 10am-5pm
Sunday: 11am-5pm

Address: Ålgårdsvägen 5-9. Phone: 033-12 48 60, homepage: http://www.emmausbjorka.se/varabutiker
…………………………………………………………………………………………………

Borås BiståndsCenter, BBC (Books, toys, lamps, clothes, furniture)

Directions: You can take bus 3 towards Ishallen, from Södra Torget (“the Bus square”), get off at the last stop (takes app. 8 min). Go straight ahead (Ålgårdsvägen), now turn to the left and walk straight ahead again for app. 700 m)

Opening hours:
Wednesday: 4pm-7pm
Saturday: 10 am – 2pm

Address:
Getängsv. 23, 50468 Borås, Phone: 033 - 12 13 99, homepage: http://www.borasbc.se/

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

Myrorna (Books, household utensils, clothes, furniture, kitchen china/porcelain)

Directions: It is located at the shopping area “Knalleland”, no more than 10 minutes walk from the university. You can take bus 1 towards Sjöbo or bus 3 towards Ishallen, from Södra Torget (“the Bus square”), get off at the stop “Bergslena” (takes app. 5 min). Go back approximately 10 m and cross the street.

Opening hours:
Monday-Friday: 10 am-6pm
Saturday: 10 am-4 pm

Note! They have 10 % student discount

Address: Skaraborgsvägen 35, 506 30 Borås, Phone: 033-153740, homepage: http://www.myrorna.se

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

Mötesplats Kupan (Swedish Red Cross) (Books, household utensils, clothes, furniture)

Directions: You can walk straight ahead from the main square, look for Handelsbanken, walk on the right side of the building, look for the pub O’Learys, and now walk straight ahead for another 10 m.

Opening hours: Monday-Friday: 10am-6pm

Address:
Mötesplats Kupan, Torgg. 9 – 11, 503 30 BORÅS

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

Borås Second Hand HB (Antiques, lamps, furniture, kitchen china/ porcelain, pictures/paintings)

Directions: You can take bus 1 towards Sjöbo or bus 3 towards Ishallen, from Södra Torget (“the Bus square”), get off at the stop "Bergslena" (takes app. 5 min). Go back approximately
10 m, turn to the right, go under the bridge, turn to the left, walk for approximately 50 m, and look for a low yellow brick house.

Address: Borås Second Hand HB, Evedalsg. 3, 503 38 BORÅS, Phone: 033 - 10 60 40

Opening hours:
Wednesday: 2pm-6pm
Saturday: 10am-1pm
…………………………………………………………………………………………………

Geting (clothes, books, household utensils)

Åsboholmsgatan 16

Tuesday and Thursday: 10am-5pm
Wednesdays: 10am-2:30pm

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

Other possibilities:

- Borås Tidning: Check the advertisement page in the local newspaper or their website, http://www.bt.se/sok_annonser/privatannonser/
Sometimes there are people who would like to sell their old furniture. If you are lucky you can get it for a very low cost and sometimes even for free.

- The University of Borås: Sometimes there are students who would like to sell their old furniture, computer, computer parts and books. Check the notice boards in the University to see what is available today.

New Facebook Page

2011-01-11T14:18:00.002+01:00

The University of Borås has now an official Facebook page in English!

www.facebook.com/UniversityofBoras

Make sure you 'like' the page and check out the information posted there!

Public Holidays in Sweden 2011

2011-01-07T10:02:00.003+01:00

Saturday, 1 January - New Years Day
Thursday, 6 January - Epiphany
Friday, 22 April - Good Friday
Monday, 25 April - Easter Monday
Sunday, 1 May - Labour Day
Thursday, 2 June - Ascension Day
Monday, 6 June - National Day
Saturday, 25 June - Midsummer Eve
Saturday, 5 November - All Saints Day
Sunday, 25 December - Christmas Day
Monday, 26 December - Second Day of Christmas

In Sweden public holidays are sometimes called "red days".

Holiday Greetings

2010-12-23T22:45:00.003+01:00

Tomorrow is Christmas Eve and in Sweden it is usually celebrated with your family, eating food and exchanging gifts. You can read more about Christmas celebrations in Sweden here. Among other things it says that "Sweden, as we have mentioned, is a large country, and those wishing to be reunited with their families often have to travel far. Train and air tickets need be booked at least two months in advance, and motorists are advised to start their journeys in good time." This is true for me, I had booked tickets several months ago and had to spend all day in a couple of trains to reach my family about 750 km up north. The public holidays in Sweden during Christmas are Christmas Day 25 December and Boxing Day 26 December as well as New Years Eve 31 December and New Years Day 1 January. Almost all of these days coincide with weekends this year.

I would like to, once again, say thank you to all students who have left or will leave Borås this semester. I hope you enjoyed your studies at the University of Borås. And don't forget to fill in the survey I sent you! And thanks to all of you who attended the Christmas party, I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
I will be back at the office on 3 January.

Nobel Prize Award Ceremony

2010-12-10T17:41:00.004+01:00

Today on 10 December the annual award ceremony of the Nobel prizes takes place in Stockholm (except for the Peace prize which is presented in Oslo, Norway). Check out the ceremony and get more information here.

Swedish Language Courses for Foreign Students

2010-12-09T09:59:00.002+01:00

New application procedure!

For more information on the courses and how to apply, click here.

Christmas Goodbye Party

2010-12-02T13:16:00.000+01:00

The University would like to invite all international students leaving Borås this semester to a Christmas Goodbye Party. There will be Christmas snacks and Christmas drinks in the Green Cafeteria in the main University building on 16 December between 5 pm and 7 pm. There will also be a “secret santa gift exchange” which means that you will need to bring a wrapped gift (bought for maximum 50 SEK) and put it on the “gift table”. The Christmas gifts will then be handed out during the evening.

If you would like to attend, please send an e-mail before 13 December to Jonas Andersson, jonas.andersson@hb.se and state your name and whether you are an Erasmus student or not (due to financial accounts).

Hope to see you there!

Message from the Chairman

2010-12-02T13:11:00.002+01:00

Hey! Well, what about a presentation of me? The new Chairman of ISC, which by the way actually is a really fun job! So, something about me, I'm just your average crazy Swedish guy who enjoys multicultural things and wants to have a lot of fun! I'm going to be here in Borås until around 2012 when my studies are finished (maybe I'll be here a lot longer, just for the fun of it... I think... so you won't get rid of me so easily). The thing I want to do with ISC is to turn it into a fun place, where the inter-cultural perspective is like a red thread going through everything. So, does it sound good? Yeah, I think so too...So hopefully there will be a lot of fun, and you will get a good introduction to Sweden and the studentlife of University of Borås. Which always means parties, dinners, and activities and other stuff... Well, this is enough of me, and if there is something you want to know, just send an em@il to me! So, have a good day, and have fun until I see you!
Yours sincerely,
Thomas Arens-Fredin, Chairman ISC
tarens_173@hotmail.com

New ISC Chairmen are Looking for New Members

2010-12-01T10:30:00.002+01:00

In the beginning of this semester Thomas Arens-Fredin and Ubaid ur Rehman succeeded Majid and Kiran as Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the International Student Committee. The University would like to thank Majid and Kiran for all their hard work and to welcome Thomas and Ubaid as the new chairmen. Your work is very important and appreciated.

ISC is looking for new members
Would you be interested in joining the International Student Committee (ISC) and to introduce new international students to the University and to Borås during the “welcome period” this spring? Then come to the ISC meeting on 13 December to learn more!

What is the International Student Committee and what do they do?
The ISC is a student run group which plans and organises activities for new international students, mainly during the welcome period. The committee has a crucial role in helping new students feel welcome at the University, and in serving as a student buddy for students who are new in Borås and in Sweden. Among other things, the ISC plans activities like tours around the city, trips, welcome dinners, sporting events and ice skating. Basically any kind of activity that they think will be fun and that students will like.

Why join the ISC?
As a member of the committee you will get the chance to connect with people from different cultures, practice your English, and to meet new students. It also gives you valuable experience in planning projects, implementing events, and helps you develop social skills that can build your CV. Members of the ISC get a certificate of their participation, which can be of use for example when applying for a job or for studies abroad.

Who can join the ISC?
All students, international and Swedish students alike, are welcome to join the ISC. The committee is especially looking for students with a sense of responsibility who are interested in arranging activities for other students and who would like to support new students during their introductory time at University of Borås. Note that all participation is voluntary.

Want to know more?
If this sounds interesting, you are welcome to participate in the meeting on 13 December at 4.30 pm – 6.00 pm in J2519 in the library. All students are welcome to participate!

If you have any questions, you are welcome to contact Emma Bergstedt at emma.bergstedt@hb.se.

Saint Lucia Celebration at UB

2010-11-29T10:18:00.002+01:00

13 December is the day of Saint Lucia, which is celebrated in a very special way in Sweden. On this day (or a day close to this date) people gather early in the morning to eat ginger bread cookies (pepparkakor) and saffron flavoured buns (lussekatter), while watching and listening to a procession headed by a “Lucia”. She wears a white gown with a red sash and a crown of candles on her head. Her handmaidens, also dressed in white, each hold a candle. They sing Christmas carols and songs about Lucia. You can read more about the tradition and the history of it here.

International students are kindly invited by rector Lena Nordholm to celebrate Saint Lucia on Friday 10 December between 7.30-8.30 am in the Green cafeteria. If you would like to attend this celebration, please register no later than 3 December at 3 pm with Emma in room J414, on the fourth floor in the library building. There will be a list on the window where you can put down your name.

All Saints' Day

2010-11-04T13:55:00.002+01:00

Saturday 6 November is Alla helgons dag - All Saints’ Day, which is a public holiday in Sweden (not to be confused with allhelgonadagen which is the day after Halloween on 31 October). It is custom to light candles on graves in remembrance of deceased family members and friends. Many churches organise concerts to celebrate All Saints' Day. You can read more here.
The day before All Saints’ Day (tomorrow) is not a public holiday but a lot of the university staff (including me) will be off tomorrow.

Are you leaving Borås?

2010-11-01T16:21:00.000+01:00

If you are leaving the University of Borås after this semester and you rent a room or apartment from AB Bostäder you need to give notice at least one month in advance to end your lease. To give notice, please visit “Bobutiken” at Österlånggatan 17.

If you know already when you are leaving, please give notice as soon as possible as this will help new students who will start at the university next semester.

Do you want to improve your language skills?

2010-11-01T13:01:00.002+01:00

Conversation is a very good way to practice languages!

Language café in Rabalder
A couple of members of the International Student Committee have arranged “Language Café” in the Student Union premises on Wednesday evenings. They sit in groups and talk casually in the chosen language. If you would like to help arrange the language café you can contact Madeleine, s092652@student.hb.se

Language exchange
If you rather would like to meet another student and have a one-to-one language exchange, you can write an e-mail to emma.bergstedt@hb.se stating the language(s) you would like to practice and the language(s) you have to offer. When there is a match I will send the contact details to you so that you can meet up and practice your language skills.

Medspråk
Swedish conversation groups on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 4 pm to 5 pm in room J441 in the library.

Happy Cyrus Day روز کوروش شاد باد

2010-10-29T09:42:00.004+02:00

Fateme Saadatmand, Master's student in informatics, would like to greet you on Cyrus Day. If you would like to inform the students about celebrations in your part of the world, send me (Emma) an e-mail and I will post it on the blog.

October 29th has been designated as the international day of Cyrus the Great, king of Persia, who declared the first charter of human rights in the world, also known as the Cyrus Cylinder.
I am going to give you a brief explanation of him and his charter of human rights. I can imagine how boring the history class has been for many of us so I tried to make it as short as possible. I hope you find it useful.

Cyrus the Great (ca.600 - 529 BCE) was a towering figure in the history of mankind. As the "father of the Iranian nation", he was the first world leader to be referred to as "The Great". Cyrus founded the first world empire - and the second Iranian dynastic empire (the Achaemenids) - after defeating the Median dynasty and uniting the Medes with the other major Iranian tribe, the Persians. It was under his own rule that the empire embraced all previous civilized states of the ancient Near East, expanded vastly and eventually conquered most of Southwest Asia and much of Central Asia, parts of Europe and Caucasus. From the Mediterranean sea and the Hellespont in the west to the Indus River in the east, to create the largest empire the world had yet seen.

The Human Rights Charter of Cyrus, the Great ancient king of Iran was issued in 539 B. C. following the conquest of Babylonia . It was declared by Cyrus on the first day of spring when his coronation took place in Babylonia. After his coronation he went to Mardouk Temple of the great god and declared the Charter.

You can read the text of the Human Rights Charter of Cyrus here.

For more information (including books, videos, etc.) you can refer to:
http://www.cyrusthegreat.net/

I wish peace for whole the world.

Fateme

Photos of International Students at the University of Borås

2010-10-28T14:33:00.004+02:00

I am planning to set up a small photo exhibition in the glass cases in the library. Therefore I am looking for nice, good quality photographs of international students in Borås taken by international students in Borås. The photo should be taken during your time here in Borås. Please send me a photograph you would like to display together with a small description of the motive and the name of the photographer. I will print them and frame them. Send your photograph and your text to emma.bergstedt@hb.se before 12 November. If the file is too big to send by e-mail you can either compress it to reduce the size (zip file), or come by my office with it on a usb stick (J414 in the library).

Extension of residence permits

2010-10-28T13:19:00.003+02:00

For information about extensions of your residence permit see Extension - studying in Sweden at the website of the Swedish Migration Board.

Additional information:

You can get an extension of your residence permit to do re-exams or finish your thesis.

You can also get an extension to carry out an internship in Sweden, even if it is not part of your studies. You then need to apply for an extension of your permit “to visit”. If the internship is paid you also need a work permit. But the rules for the level of salary are not as strict as with a “regular” job. There are however different rules depending on the nature of the internship, each case is handled individually.

Remember to always apply for an extension before your current permit expires.

You cannot get an extension of your residence permit to look for a job. There have been discussions about giving students the possibility to stay in Sweden for six months to look for a job, but today it is not possible unfortunately. You need to have a job offer before your studies end in order to get a work visa.

Happening in Borås

2010-10-22T10:21:00.001+02:00

Borås Basketball
Next game: Borås Basket vs Uppsala Basket, 26 October, 7 pm in Boråshallen.

fashionDAYS
Three days of fashion events and outlet shopping, 28-30 October

Antique Fair
Åhaga, 29-31 October

Swedish Judo Open
With participants from all over Europe. Boråshallen, 30-31 October

Registration with the Swedish Migration Board and Personnummer for EU citizens

2010-10-01T16:09:00.003+02:00

This is a reminder to all students from EU/EEA countries to register their right of residence with the Swedish Migration Board. You can do it either online or by post to: Migrationsverket, Studerandeenheten, 601 70 Norrköping. Fill out the form no. 141011 Registration of right of residence and remember to enclose:
proof of admission to a course programme which is at least at upper secondary school level (a copy of your admission letter to the University of Borås)
assurance that you have sufficient funds for your support (a letter signed by yourself explaining how you support yourself is enough)
documented proof that you have comprehensive health insurance that is valid in Sweden (a copy of your European Health Insurance Card is enough)

Swedish Personal Identity Number for EU citizens
If you are an EU citizen and you would like to have a Swedish Personal Identity Number (personnummer) you need to register at the Migration Board (”right of residence”) and then visit your local tax office and register in the population register (folkbokföring). The officer handling your case will decide if you are granted a Swedish Personal Identity Number. You need to show that you intend to stay at least a year (e.g. admission letter, work contract) and that you can support yourself (e.g. bank statement, transaction receipt). Note that you do not need a Swedish Personal Identity Number to work and pay taxes, a co-ordination number (which you also apply for at the tax office) is enough.

Lapland Express - A Student Tour to Lapland

2010-10-01T12:01:00.002+02:00

The trips are organised by Scanbalt Experience

A perfect tour for those who like to see Lapland in less than a week. On this tour you have time to experience the best of what Kiruna and Abisko in Swedish Lapland has to offer. Dog sled, snow mobiling, sami culture, sauna with arctic swim and much more

This autumn there are two departures for Lapland from Göteborg, 26 November and 10 December

For more info, prices and booking (read this before booking)

When booking you need to pay a 20% deposit otherwise your booking will be deleted so have your Visa or MasterCard ready. If you are several persons and don’t have the attention to pay together its better you book separately.

Cheers
The Scanbalt Team
info@scanbaltexperience.com
http://www.scanbaltexperience.com/

Work Seminar for International Students

2010-09-30T09:47:00.002+02:00

Are you planning on working in Sweden or starting up your own business? Would you like to know how to navigate the Swedish labour market? Or find out what labour regulations apply to international students? Then you should sign up for the work seminar arranged by Drivhuset and the University of Borås!

Monday 11 oct
Time: 16:00 - 18:00
Venue: M506, University of Borås

For more information and to enter your participation click here.

Medspråk

2010-09-22T18:24:00.003+02:00

Mespråk will start their conversation sessions (see earlier blog post) on Wednesday 29 September in room J441 in the library at 4pm to 5pm. From next week onwards the sessions will take place every Wednesday and Thursday in the same room, at the same time. Every week you can attend either Wednesday or Thursday (you do not have to choose one day and then stick to that) or both days. No fees.

New International Students at the University of Borås

2010-09-21T14:06:00.018+02:00

Over 400 international students joined the University of Borås this semester. Many of them attended the introduction days where they learned more about Sweden, Borås and the University, and received a lot of information on practical matters and about studying at UB. The Student Union and the International Student Committee (student buddies) organised social activities during the first three weeks of the semester. Some of the activities were only for new international students, such as campus, city and bus tour and welcome dinner. Other activities were open to all new students at UB, such as parlor game night, poolparty, “buggkurs”, brännboll tournament, barbecue and a visit to Borås Zoo.

A big welcome to

all the new international

students and a big

thank you to all the student buddies who helped introducing

the new students to the city and to the university!!!

Scanbalt International Student Cruise to Tallinn 24-26 October

2010-09-14T16:50:00.003+02:00

Join Scanbalt Experience and several student organizations on a cruise from Stockholm to Tallinn. We call it Scanbalt ISC (International Student Cruise). This is the 5th Scanbalt ISC and we can guarantee it will be a hit again! Most info is summarized on the booking page of Tallink the cruise companywhere you find useful links.

4 persons in one cabin is the cheapest option so talk with some friends who can join you. Remember that you need name, date of birth, nationality of all passengers when making the booking. As you can see there are different ways to book, Tallink offices (small extra fee) or online but you need assistance of a Scandinavian speaking person. Remember that your booking is directly with Tallink the cruise company and they can answer you about payments, bookings etc. Scanbalt and the student organizations do the arrangements and events on the ship.

Here is the movie from the last cruise to Riga in April

About the terminal and how to get there

About the ship

Cheers
The Scanbalt Team
http://www.scanbaltexperience.com/
info@scanbaltexperience

Student Fair

2010-09-13T10:47:00.003+02:00

On Wednesday 15 September, 9.00-14.00, in the Balder building on the entrance floor, there will be a fair for students at the University of Borås. Representatives of the different sections of the Student Union, organizations, employment agencies and trade unions, will be present.

Practice your Swedish at Medspråk!

2010-09-02T10:08:00.002+02:00

Are you learning Swedish? At Medspråk you can get help and support!

You will get the opportunity to meet and talk to native Swedish speakers and to improve your spoken Swedish.

There are no lessons, homework or tests. Just conversations where we will, in a relaxed and easy way, talk about everyday life. No fee.

Everyone, irrespective of level in spoken Swedish can come and join us!

Further information about Medspråk will be given on 16 September, at 14:00 in room J441 in the library building.

Enter your participation by sending your name and e-mail address to easyswedish-boras@live.se

Welcome!
Medspråkarna

(Medspråk is organized by Medborgarskolan in Borås)

Apply for Swedish Language Courses on 23 August!

2010-08-20T16:54:00.000+02:00

This autumn semester the University of Borås offers more Swedish language courses for beginners than last semester. However, the number of seats is still limited and you need to apply before 31 August. To apply you need to be registered at another course or programme at the University of Borås. The application opens on Monday 23 August.

How to apply
Exchange students who applied (1st of May) before arriving in Sweden are prioritized the first period (no more application is needed). All other students need to apply for the autumn course by filling in a new application form which will be handed out at the StudentCentre between 23 and 31 August. No consideration will be given to past applications from previous semesters. Late applications will only be considered for the second period.

More information can be found on the website Swedish courses for foreign students.

New international coordinator at University of Borås

2010-08-20T16:40:00.007+02:00

The University of Borås would like to welcome Emma Bergstedt as the new international coordinator at Student Services! Emma Bergstedt started beginning of August and will take over after Linda Rydh who leaves for another job at the university on 1 September. Emma comes originally from the north of Sweden but has been living and studying in Gothenburg since 2004 (with a few intermissions). She has been studying, working and carrying out internships for a total of four years in three other countries expect for Sweden, and thus have a good idea of what it is like to be an international student and new in a country. Emma loves travelling and meeting people from all over the world, and is very happy she can continue doing that also when living in Sweden. You are warmly welcome to visit Emma in the library whenever you have questions concerning living and studying in Sweden in general and Borås in particular. For more information, please visit www.hb.se/intstudent

Emma Bergstedt

Preparation for moving home - Important tips

2010-06-10T11:29:00.003+02:00

The time to go home is fast approaching for everyone. While exams are likely to be on your minds I would like to remind all students of a few tasks that are a help to the university and students arriving next year.
1. Give notice you are leaving your student room. If you are leaving this term or your programme finishes this term you will need to move out. Giving notice in advance is very critical in helping newly arriving students who are looking for accommodation. Please contact your landlord as soon as possible to inform them you are planning on moving out. Don't forget to return your keys as well
2. Return your access tag. Please return your access tag. During opening hours you can leave it at the Student Centre.
3. Return your library books and your patron card. Make sure to return any books you have loaned and to return your patron card. Speak to the personnel at the information desk of the library to return your card.
4. Confirmation of studies letters, other documents. Do you have any documents you need signed? Try to get them signed in advance.
5. Fill out the survey for exchange students or for freemovers. The survey for exchange students is available at http://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=dGNpQjdzZ0NRWGRIX2JSay1FYmFYM2c6MQ . The survey for freemovers is available at http://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=dGhuelk1c1BXLVAwVVo0SGNHX2lJRVE6MQ

Hot and Sexy Farewell Picnic at Almenäs Next Week

2010-05-27T12:12:00.002+02:00

The exams are over, the summer holidays are approaching and many international students will be leaving Borås in June. Therefore we would like to get together one last time before we part! On Saturday June 5th students are welcome to join the Farewell picnic at Almenäs by the lake, to barbeque, play games (football, sack running and possibly swimming competitions, if the water is not too cold) and to have a good time!

Everyone should find something “Hot, sexy, sporty and crazy” to wear at the picnic! Please bring your own food and something to drink (also note, that in Sweden it is prohibited to drink alcohol outdoors in public places, such as parks).

Date: June 5th
Time: 12:00-16:00
Place: Almenäs, lake side
Dress code: “Hot, sexy, sporty and crazy”
Questions? Contact Charlotte Asiedu at charlotte_asiedu@yahoo.com

Most welcome!

Does Your Landlord Know that You are Leaving?

2010-05-27T12:08:00.000+02:00

Do not forget to leave notice to your landlord on May 30th at the latest, if you are planning your departure in June! This is especially important for you who are staying in rooms at Tunnlandsgatan or Distansgatan, as it helps arriving students who are looking for accommodation with AB Bostäder.

To give notice, please contact your landlord (AB Bostäder) by visiting “Bobutiken” at Österlånggatan 17, Borås.

Salsa Dancing on Saturday Night!

2010-05-27T11:27:00.002+02:00

If you missed the last salsa night, here is another chance to try this popular couple dance out! This time the course is arranged by a friend of mine. The evening begins with a crash course for beginners at 7 pm (be on time!) and then continues with social dancing until 10 pm. The entrance fee is around SEK20.

Date: Saturday, May 29th

Time: 19:00-22:00

Place: Grand Hotel, at Hallbergsplatsen 2, Borås

Questions? Contact Linda Rydh at linda.rydh@hb.se

Hope to see you all there! //Linda

Become a Student Buddy!

2010-05-21T17:56:00.000+02:00

We are presently looking for students who would like to engage as Student Buddies at the introduction in August; starting on August 23rd. Student Buddies welcome the new international students and introduce them to the city of Borås and to the university. They accompany the new students at social activities that are arranged by the Student Union or the ISC (International Student Committee), and help them to settle in the new environment. Does it sound interesting? Would you like to know more? Then you should join the Student Buddy meeting on Tuesday, May 25th at 17:00 in Rabalder (the student union, entrance floor).

Welcome!

It is time for another ISC meeting!

2010-05-21T17:22:00.000+02:00

The International Student Committee (ISC) who arrange activities for international students, have been inactive for some time. Now they feel that they are ready to start the planning for next semester’s introduction activities and other exciting events for international students! They will have a meeting on Monday, May 24th, at 16:00 to discuss the recruitment of new Student Buddies, a farewell “picknick” for the students who are leaving Sweden in June, and much more.

If you would like to engage in the planning of the farewell picknick, become a “student buddy” or if you are just curious of the ISC, you are most welcome to join!

Time: May 24th, 16:00
Place: “Snålfiket”, in the Balder building. Just outside the “Green Restaurant” at the entrance floor.
Any questions? Write to linda.rydh@hb.se or Julia Hallström at S072242@utb.hb.se

Report from the Cultural Day

2010-05-21T16:34:00.008+02:00

The Cultural Day Fair which was held on May 11th was very successful and undoubtedly appreciated amongst the many students and staff who came to visit. The fair was organized by students from Iran, India, Turkey, Pakistan, Indonesia, Sweden and China as a way to celebrate the cultural richness at University of Borås, to give students the opportunity to share their cultures and to create a meeting platform that would inspire students from different countries to get together, exchange views and learn from each other. The fair visitors not only had the privilege to taste food from seven different countries but also join in a lot of activities, watch yoga- Kung Fu- and dance performances, get henna tattoos, listen to music and much more.

The Cultural Day was also visited by Rector Lena Nordholm, who held an inspiring speech and expressed her wish to make the Cultural Day a regular event. She gave thanks to the students who organized the fair, and handed them certificates as a proof of her appreciation. In Lena’s blog at http://etjanst.hb.se/hb/lenasblogg/default.asp you can read her own thoughts on the day.

Students from Turkey, Iran and Pakistan presented both contemporary and traditional dances, and even let the International Coordinator – Linda Rydh – join in the dancing for a while. Sweden did their best to keep up with the other countries on the dance scene: They illustrated how Swedes celebrate midsummer, by inviting the audience to take part in a ring dance around the may pole. Although the ring dance was great fun, it was not nearly as eye-catching and graceful as the Indian dance performances: Indian students presented examples of the classical Bharatanatyam dance as well as the more modern “Bollywood” type of dancing. In addition they presented two different styles of yoga – Asanas and Pranayam yoga – and also performed traditional Indian songs.

Chinese students took the opportunity to draw the fair visitors’ attention to the earthquake in the county Yushu, on April 14th where more than 2000 people died. They let students and staff write short messages on a banner, to show their support and sympathy for the citizens of Yushu. Apart from this, Chinese students also gave a presentation of Kung Fu and a demonstration of how to serve tea in the traditional Chinese way. Students from Indonesia offered visitors to try on traditional Indonesian clothing, which was very popular, while Pakistani students, at the end of the fair, proudly performed the anthem of Pakistan.

Many thanks to the planning committee who spent several days of hard work, planning and preparing the event! Without the great efforts from Neni Fidya Santi, Indri Farry, Sheng Li, Charlotte Asiedu, M Sohaib Amir Khan, Mikael Wahl, Rajesh Ramadoss, Davood Zall, Can Özberk, Tanti Kostaman and many others, the Cultural Day would not have been this successful. A special thanks to Abdul Majid who ambitiously coordinated the whole event and motivated so many students to take part in it.

Note: The photos of Majid shaking hands with Lena Nordholm, and the crowd watching Pakistani dancers, are taken by Kristoffer Lidén.

Experience seven cultures in one day!

2010-05-06T14:10:00.004+02:00

Have you ever wondered how the food tastes in Turkey? Or would you like to find out how it looks like when Swedes are dancing around a maypole? Then you should make sure not to miss the Cultural Day on Tuesday, May 11th! At this fair, students from India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Sweden, Turkey, Iran and China will proudly present their cultures. Come to taste the food from seven different nations, watch documentary films and Indian dance performances, listen to music, learn to write in new languages and mingle with people from all over the world!

At 12.00 Rector Lena Nordholm and International Coordinator Linda Rydh will have a speech to welcome visitors to the fair. Short documentary films and presentations will be shown in room H302 during the day.

Welcome!

Date: May 11th, Tuesday.
Time: 10:00-16.00, speech by International Coordinator Linda Rydh and Rector Lena Nordholm at 12:00.
Place: Sandgärdet, outside the university library.

Walpurgis Eve Celebration on Friday

2010-04-28T12:32:00.003+02:00

On Friday April 30th is the holiday in Sweden known as Walpurgis Eve, or Valborgsmässoafton, in Swedish. It will be celebrated all over the country, as every year, and though the traditions may vary between different cities, it is common to have a big, public bonfire and choir-singing on this day. Above all, it is a day to celebrate the beginning of spring. Also, students of Chalmers in Gothenburg arrange a big parade called the Cortége every year on April 30th. The procession starts at 18.15 from Chalmers, in Gothenburg, and then parades through the city.

In Borås, Valborg will be celebrated with a speech at Stora Torget and a bonfire at Annelundsparken amongst other things. Here is the schedule for the day:

17.30 A parade will go from Knalletorget to Stora torget.
17.45 The band Borås Kulturskolas Ungdomsorkester will play at Stora Torget
18.00 Choir-singing by Borås Manskör and speech by Eva Stenbäcken, at Stora Torget
18.30 Bonfire, choir-singing and speech at Annelundsparken.

You can find out more about the celebration of Walpurgis and other Swedish holidays on the website http://www.sweden.se/.

Speak Easy Swedish continues

2010-04-28T12:12:00.001+02:00

The Swedish conversation groups (see previous blog post)which were introduced by Medborgarskolan last week, came out very successful and were appreciated amongst the students who participated. Therefore, the organizers have decided to keep up with the “Speak Easy Swedish” groups, in order to support students who would like to practice their Swedish.

The “Speak Easy Swedish” groups will continuously meet in the library (in room J432) every week this semester at the following weekdays:

Tuesdays at 15:00
Fridays at 11:00

Note that this week’s meeting, on Friday at 11.00, will be held in room J515. You should send an e-mail to easyswedish-boras@live.se if you would like to participate.

Welcome!

Would you like to go for an outing with Swedish youths and learn about the Swedes’ views of nature?

2010-04-20T14:18:00.002+02:00

John Bauergymnasiet, a high school in Borås, is inviting international students to a trip to the forest on May 4th, to discuss differences and similarities between different cultures’ view of nature. You will get the chance to meet Swedish high school students, learn about the Swedish way of preserving and caring for nature, find out about the Swedish right of public access (allemansrätten) amongst other things. Read the school’s invitation below for more details:

Hello

My name is Daniel Lekman I’m a teacher at John BauerGymnasiet (16-19years old) in Borås. I teach different courses within psychology and health including nature and wildlife. On Tuesday 4 of May (08:20-11:20), I like to invite international students of any nation to join me and my class to a class (in the forest). There we will cover the topic what you are allowed to do and what not to do in Sweden (according to public rights access, anyone have the right to travel the forest with some limitations), this will also be an occasion to train wildlife fire starting. The main purpose for my students is to discuss how different countries care about the access to nature. For you this is a good opportunity to meet some Swedish youth and exchange perspectives. I need your answer before Friday 30 of April. There is a limit for how many I can take with me so “first come first served”.

Send your answer or questions by email to Daniel.lekman@johnbauer.nu or call me at 0736251357 (office hours).

With kind regards
/Daniel Lekman

When: Tuesday, May 4th at 8.20
Where: John Bauergymnasiet school located at Älvsborgsgatan 4.
Map: View this link for a map.
How to attend: Send an e-mail to Daniel.lekman@johnbauer.nu. First come first service!