"The social workers are there for international students at Radboud University. You can contact us if you are facing something; your student advisor is your first point of contact for any study-related questions, and we’ll think along with you about all sorts of other questions. I receive practical questions, for instance, about finding a GP as an international student or about insurance policies. But I can also help if you are having a tough time mentally, for instance if you are feeling lonely.
For international students, the social workers act as the uniting factor between the different student guidance staff at the university and external sources of help. Together with you, I’ll look at what you need: for instance, I can refer you to the study trainer or student psychologist, but we can also explore what the other options in Nijmegen are together. As an international student, you are probably less aware of these options, and so it is nice to have someone look or go with you.
In many of the things you face as an international student, you are really not alone. First and foremost, start by talking: share what you are dealing with and make sure you don’t keep it to yourself but tell others. That often already helps."
Ingrid Peters, social worker
Read more about the social workers
Read more about student support
This article is part of a new series in which student supporters talk about what they can do for you.