‘We like it when the students themselves add something to shape the space,’ says Rose Rorije of the Student Union, responsible for internationalization and the Global Lounge. ‘Being actively open to each other's cultures and actually organizing activities pertaining to that is the idea.’
All-round lounge
The Global Lounge provides space for that and wants to extend a 'warm welcome' to the international newcomers: ‘With a warm and friendly décor, the international student here can give some colour to his identity. Students can decorate the space themselves with the souvenirs they bring in. It is also always nice to tell others about your own country or your internship abroad.'
The lounge consists of three separate areas, each with its own purpose. Rorije: ‘In the lower area, workshops can be given. The middle space is a standing area to have meetings, work or give a presentation. The upper area is intended for relaxation. This could be, for example, gaming; there's a beamer connected to an Xbox with Kinect.'
LAN parties and salsa dancing
The Global Lounge also invites everyone who wants to contribute to a good international atmosphere: 'Clubs and associations can organize activities with an international objective. These could include, for example, evenings of games, LAN parties and salsa dancing. We also work closely with the TCP, the Language Coordination Centre. It's all about successful integration.’
The Global Lounge is opening on Tuesday, 6 October at 5:00 pm in the Bastille. A travel voucher worth € 250 will be raffled among the students who bring a souvenir to the opening.
