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Student associations in Groningen: your shortcut to friends?

Editorial Staff International in Groningen

Looking for friendship, fun and a future network in Groningen? Student associations might just be your best bet.

What’s the fastest way to feel at home as an international student in Groningen? According to Media Studies student Steli Simeonova, the answer is simple: join a student association. In this new episode of International in Groningen, host Sara chats with Steli about how joining both a study and a student association transformed her time in the Netherlands: from making new friends to travelling across Europe.

Steli, originally from Bulgaria and currently studying at the University of Groningen, shares how she dove headfirst into student life by signing up with AEGEE (don’t worry, we struggle with the pronunciation too). This European student association organises everything from hitchhiking trips to Brussels to boozy beer-table traditions like Cantus, complete with singing, punishments, and maybe a bit too much Barbie Girl.

Making more friends

But there’s more to student associations than just partying. Steli explains the difference between study associations, which are tied to your academic programme and help with summaries, guest lectures and career events, and student associations, which are more focused on hobbies, cultures and social bonding. There are also sports associations, for those who want to break a sweat instead of the ice.

One of the big takeaways from this episode? Student associations in Groningen aren’t just about having a good time, they’re a crucial way to build community, especially if you’re coming from abroad. Whether you’re into politics, photography, or just want to meet people who also enjoy hitchhiking across borders, there’s probably an association that fits you.

Steli reflects on the impact these groups had on her own student experience: ‘If I didn’t join an association, I would’ve only had one or two friends. Being in a committee really helped me connect and not just for now. These are people I’ll know even after I graduate.’

Hammered at Cantus

She also sheds light on what it means to do a board year—a full-time leadership position within an association that’s great for your CV but not for your free time—and gives advice for newcomers on how to explore the overwhelming amount of options during the intro weeks in Groningen.

Oh, and for those concerned about drinking culture: Steli reassures listeners that while alcohol is often around, student associations are generally safe and pressure-free spaces. ‘If you want to get hammered at Cantus, go for it. If you want water, you won’t be judged either.’

So if you’re an international student trying to find your place in Groningen, Steli’s message is clear: get involved. Whether you’re after travel, culture, friends or future job contacts, associations offer more than just a weekly social drink—they can change your whole student experience.