Campus

International Neighbour Group Delft celebrates 50 years

Moving abroad to study or work can be challenging, and sometimes it’s even harder for the partners or spouses that come along. This month the International Neighbour Group at TU Delft celebrates 50 years of helping to make it easier for some of them.

According to volunteer Annelies Mooij, in the 1960s several Dutch women accompanied their professor husbands for some time at the University of Michigan. They were happy to find a special programme for partners there, so they introduced this idea in the Netherlands when they returned. There was a time when all universities had similar groups, but the one at TU Delft is the only one that remains active. The group is run by about twenty volunteers, many of whom have spouses or partners that either currently or previously worked at the university.

The Meeting Point, held every Wednesday morning during the academic year, is the most important event for the International Neighbour Group. Visitors receive a warm welcome, a cup of coffee and a chance to connect with other internationals in similar circumstances. And children are also welcome. “Sometimes people don’t speak English so well but they often find someone here who speaks the same language,” said volunteer Patty van Woerden. “People help each other a lot and give advice.” She explained that now newcomers have more information with the internet and what they get from TU Delft, but what they offers that is important is the personal contact.

In addition to the weekly meetings, the group offers both Dutch and English classes taught by volunteers. They host events like cooking clubs, handicrafts and local excursions in and around Delft to help people find their way. There are cultural festivities like Sinterklaas and holiday celebrations where participants share food and traditions from their own cultures and once a year there is a bigger outing.

Although many of the participants are visiting Delft for a short time, others like Priti Rao have been around for many years. “I found the International Neighbour Group when I first came here eight years ago and now I’m sort of an ambassador,” said the Indian native whose husband is an aerospace professor. “Many people come here and don’t know where to start. But once you are associated with this group you always stay connected.”

All internationals associated with TU Delft are welcome and membership is free. More information about events is available through the TU Delft intranet.

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