Introduction events
UniBE International organizes a series of introduction events for exchange students. The events are divided into modules that take place before the start of your exchange semester. The aim of the different events is to prepare you as best as possible for your stay in Switzerland. More information on the individual modules can be found below.
During the semester we cooperate with the Erasmus Student Network Bern, which organises a varied social and cultural programme for our exchange students.
Modules
Module 1: Getting ready for Bern!
This module "Getting ready for Bern!" is mandatory and takes place about 6 weeks before arrival. We meet online in a Zoom meeting (link will be sent out in advance). The information event consists of two parts:
- Information regarding your arrival in Bern and about studying at UniBE
- Introduction to the course registration systems (KSL/CTS and ILIAS).
During this event, you will thus receive important information for the preparation of your exchange so that you can come to Bern feeling confident and prepared. In addition, you will have the chance to get to know the other exchange students, so that you will already have some first contacts when your arrive in Bern.
Module 2: Introduction Week
The introduction week takes place on site in the week prior to the semester. The introduction week prepares you for your exchange and connects you with other students – it is the first possibility to make friendships that often last beyond the semester in Bern. Some of the events like the "Welcome & General Introduction" are mandatory for all exchange students. For others you will need to register yourself. To benefit from all the practical, cultural, and organisational information and the networking opportunities, we recommend that you attend all events.
The introduction week consists of various activities, such as:
- Welcome & General Introduction
- Information events (ESN, CTS/Ilias, libraries, university sports, etc.)
- University Tour
- Cross-Cultural Meet&Greet: An interactive event to get to know each and reflect about interculturality
- City tour of Bern
- "Znüni" and UniCard Pick-Up*
- German language workshops at all levels
You will receive the detailed program by email.
*Znüni = snack at 9 o'clock in the morning, the equivalent in the afternoon is the "Zvieri" at 4 o'clock.
Module 3: Welcome Reception
UniBE International welcomes all new exchange students with an “apéro”*. The welcome reception usually takes place a few weeks after the start of the semester. You will receive more information during the introduction week.
*The apéro is something you will encounter all the time in Switzerland, whether before or instead of dinner (the apéro riche), at a garden party, wedding, funeral or after a conference. You can never go wrong with an apéro. The classic Swiss apéro involves nibbles and drinks. The snacks can range from small pieces of cheese and crackers to salty nuts and some fancier finger food, such as mini quiches and small sandwiches. While you eat and drink, the idea is to chat and socialise.
Module 4: Connect with local students
In your application for an exchange semester at the University of Bern you can indicate whether you would like to meet Bernese students who will be doing an exchange semester at your home university the following semester.
If you choose this option, we will put you in touch with the students during the semester, provided we receive applications for your home university.
