Anyone who mixes with a student association knows that this is one place where there is very little sign of just how international student life has become. The associations are bastions of all that is Dutch, with old-fashioned traditions, rules and songs. Yet all the while, no fewer than 18 percent more international students have registered for the coming academic year. Are the associations open to having international members?

Certainly, says vice chairperson Ruben Puylaert of the National Chamber of Associations, to which 48 student associations are affiliated. The study reveals that 63% of the affiliated associations are currently running projects to foster internationalization. But that's no reason for English to become the second official language at societies, he says “That is not the solution; research indicates that many international students come here precisely because they want to become more familiar with the Dutch culture.”

Survey

Puylaert is referring to a recently published study by the LKvV itself about internationalization. Student associations seem to be doing badly where their accessibility for internationals is concerned. Three-quarters of the 82 foreign students interviewed were not even aware they could join a Dutch association, or thought they would not succeed if they tried.

That's sadly understandable: according to a survey of the boards of 41 student associations, 25 percent expects their members would not be happy to see an increase in the number of internationals at the ‘soc’. By contrast, another 25 percent thinks their members would welcome that, and 50 percent are neutral. Only 15 percent thinks it realistic to say that their association makes itself open to international students.

The low level of foreign participation in association life is due for a large part to the short amount of time the internationals have to complete their studies, believes Puylaert. “Many foreign students are in the Netherlands for only six months. That simply makes it difficult to enjoy full membership.” Most exchange students opt to join the Erasmus Student Network (ESN), where they meet like-minded people with whom they can party and socialize.

The conclusion drawn by the report is that associations could make a greater effort to be more attractive and accessible to foreigners. Many members are afraid that their culture will change, but according to LkvV that fear is unfounded. “With the right approach, very little need be adjusted in terms of the language and culture within the association.”