Around 200 new international students get to know the University of Latvia

During the event, students had the opportunity to get to know the UL, learn about the study process and the various e-systems in use, as well as explore student support services, library resources, and cultural and sports activities beyond their studies. The programme also included a practical workshop on time management and work organisation, led by R. Madani, a representative of the student organisation Erasmus Student Network (ESN Riga). 

“The University of Latvia offers a wide range of opportunities for international students — a creative and enriching academic environment, international cooperation and intercultural experiences, as well as support and a strong sense of community in a new country. The goal of Welcome Day is to introduce international students, at the very beginning of their journey at our university, to this broad range of opportunities. From the moment they arrive, UL becomes a home in Latvia for our international students,” says B. Pētersone, Director of the UL Department for International Cooperation. 

To encourage the exchange of experiences, senior international students A. Uzay Coltu and J. Fernandes shared their insights on studying at UL and living in Riga, together with representatives of student organisations — the UL Student Council (LUSP) and ESN Riga. 

UL psychologist J. Jansone offered advice on how new students can adapt more successfully to life at UL and in Latvia, as well as become familiar with Latvian culture. During the adaptation session, students noted that upon arriving at UL they hope to make new friends, gain new experiences and cultural impressions, become more independent while living away from home, and grow academically. 

“The UL Welcome Day truly surprised me with its warm atmosphere. In France, events like this are usually quite formal, but here we danced, enjoyed delicious food, and got to know each other. I want to develop not only academically, but also gain life experience away from home. I hope that studying at UL will give me that, especially at a time when many students in France are facing burnout and too little attention is paid to mental well-being,” shared M. Chambert (France). 

“The most impressive thing was how easy it was to connect with other people, because we are all sharing the same experience,” said K. Bressy (Italy), reflecting on the event. 

The social programme of Welcome Day was opened by UL Vice-Rector for Research, Associate Professor Guntars Kitenbergs, who wished students a successful semester and offered advice on how to make the most of their study time at UL. Later in the evening, students actively took part in Latvian dances and games led by the folklore group Dandari from the UL Culture Centre. 

Many students particularly highlighted the opportunity to gain their first impressions of Latvian culture. For example, M. Tabbers (Netherlands) noted: “The highlight of the day was the Latvian folk dances at the end. We learned about the local culture, which gave a really good impression of the country. Overall, the event was very informative, and I truly enjoyed it.” 

J. Witkowski (Germany) also shared her impressions: “The most memorable moment was the dancing, because I didn’t expect it. At first I was a little nervous, but it was a lot of fun since everyone participated.” 

The UL Department for International Cooperation extends its gratitude to all colleagues who supported the organisation of Welcome Day — the Student Service, the Culture Centre and folklore group Dandari, the Sports Club, the Library, as well as LUSP and ESN Riga.