Independent journalism about VU Amsterdam | Since 1953
22 December 2024
Magazine
Nederlands

Student Life & Society

Society 29 March 2023

A whole life in two rooms and a suitcase

The Ukrainian refugees in the living units near Uilenstede might be here for tragic reasons outside of their control, they’re also just living life. ‘I like watching the planes from my bed.’
Students 16 March 2023

VU gamers unite to compete in Dutch Student League

Universities all over the country are virtually duking it out in the games League of Legends and Rocket League. VU Amsterdam gamers have also entered the fray and are competing for the prize money of seven thousand euros, but do…
Society 7 March 2023

‘People get uncomfortable if you say you’re Jewish’

Professor of Jewish studies Jessica Roitman wants to show the diversity of Judaism. ‘People are surprised when they hear that there are Black and Asian Jews.’
Politics 23 February 2023

Politicians fear return of grant will attract more foreign students

The reinstatement of the basic student grant has met with a positive reception from all sides of the House of Representatives. But some parties have expressed concern: will this overhaul of student financing end up attracting even more international students…
Housing 14 February 2023

At least 338 international students lack housing

Of the 1363 international VU students who filled in a survey by the International Office, 338 of them do not have a stable housing situation. That is a quarter of them.
Society 2 February 2023

‘Minister hampers refugees’ right to education’

Education Minister Robbert Dijkgraaf makes refugee students pay many thousands of euros more in tuition fees than Dutch students. He is hampering their right to education, according to a national support centre for people without documents.
Opinion 26 January 2023

‘Warning international students is not enough’

‘Don’t come if you don’t have accommodation by the first of August’, warned VU Amsterdam. Student Leo Yilmazer – who quit their studies and moved back to Türkiye because they couldn’t find a room – thinks the university should be…
Europe 23 January 2023

This Greek island cherishes its refugees

The living circumstances for refugees in Greece vary widely, PhD-student Elena Bonanini found.
Society 23 January 2023

Why a Cultural Barometer is essential for diversity policy

Research universities and universities of applied sciences are doing their utmost to create diverse, inclusive environments. However, monitoring the perception and effectiveness of diversity and inclusion proves difficult in practice. Professor Jojanneke van der Toorn explains why it is essential…
Society 23 January 2023

Petition: universities must end ties with fossil fuel sector

In a week of climate protests, activists from Fossielvrij NL posted an online petition last Wednesday. They claim that the motives of companies in the fossil fuel sector run counter to the values of the academic community.  According to the…