What exactly will be happening at the Internationale Biermittag ('international beer afternoon')?
'The Biermittag is just a social event by and for a nice international group of students. There will be drinks and snacks and we will play some good music.'
Why is there a German theme as opposed to an outright one?
'To pay tribute to the great amount of German students that populate the UT. The snacks will therefore be German and there will be German music. But the party is meant for all students – including the non-Dutch and non-German ones! In fact, bringing international and Dutch students together is one of the aims of the event. That's why there is a special offer tomorrow afternoon whereby pairs consisting of an international and a Dutch student will get one free drink each. The goal of this ICOS activity is to enhance integration between the Dutch and non-Dutch students that way. By forming pairs the students will have a good excuse to meet each other.'
ICOS describes itself as a committee consisting of study associations with a large base in the international student community. What study associations are exactly involved?
'The participating associations are: Sirius, Stress, Astatine, Communique, Dimensie, Scintilla, Proto. Also, the happening is guided and financed by the Student Union and the OS.'
What makes ICOS think that more mingling and mixing between internationals and natives is something to be aspired?
'There is a large variety of nationalities among students. These bring different cultures which are all very interesting. Moreover, to develop students’ international competences it is important to stimulate acculturation processes and integration. Other than that, hanging out together can just be plain fun.'
Why should we all flock down to the beer festival at four this Thursday or as soon as we finished our work?
'Since it is fun, free of charge, drinks on offer for just 1 euro - unless you pair up with an international if you are Dutch and conversely of course - good snacks are provided as well as a nice multi-national environment. And... It is open to everyone! Students, employees, family and friends are all welcome.'
The Internationale Biermittag takes place at the O&O-square (in front of the Waaier building) and will start from 16:00 onwards. For further information contact ICOS or click here.
