Practical information - Erasmus School of History, Culture and

A handbook for new students

2012-2013 editionWelcome to Erasmus University Rotterdam

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1 Pre-departure information 3A. Students under 18 3B. Immigration procedures 3C. Accommodation 4D. Insurance 5E. Finances 6F. Travelling from Schiphol Airport to Rotterdam 8G. Travelling from your home country to Rotterdam 8H. Checklists 9

2 First days at Erasmus UniversityRotterdam 10A. Working on tomorrow’s campus 10B. Immigration procedures 10C. Registration at City Hall 10D. Introduction activities 11E. Opening a Dutch bank account 12F. Erasmus Student Network Rotterdam 13G. Sigma Delta Phi 13H. Getting online 13I. Getting a mobile phone or SIM card 13

3 All you need to know aboutstudying at EUR 14A. Erasmus Student Service Centre 14B. Educational system in the Netherlands 14C. Binding Study Advice 15D. Student Information Network Online 15E. Libraries 16F. Language & Training Centre 16G. Student organisations 17H. Erasmus Pride 17I. Sports Centre 17J. Sustainability on campus 17K. Facilities on Woudestein campus 18L. Facilities on Erasmus MC campus 19M.Safety and security 20N. Advice and counselling 20O. Health 22P. Working in the Netherlands 23

4 Rotterdam and the Netherlands 24A. The Netherlands and the Dutch 24B. Language 25C. Climate 25D. Rotterdam 25E. Tourist information 26F. Getting around 26G. Postal services 27H. Water 27I. Shopping, supermarkets and markets 27J. Emergency 27K. Rotterdam pass: lots of discounts 27

5 Contact / Further information 28A. Faculty information 28B. Useful addresses and links 30C. Maps 34

A HANDBOOK FOR NEW STUDENTS 2012 2013

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Contents

ColophonJune 2012. Welcome to Erasmus University Rotterdam,a handbook for new international students, is a publication ofthe Department of Student Affairs of Erasmus UniversityRotterdam.Design: Studio Bauman BNO (Emmy van Harskamp), Vlaardingen(http://www.studiobauman.nl/)Editor: Marlous JanssenPhotography: Image bank Erasmus University Rotterdam(Eric Fecken, Michelle Muus).

Disclaimer: The information provided in this handbook wascorrect at the time of publishing, but may be subject tosubsequent change. Erasmus University Rotterdam reserves theright to make changes affecting policy, fees or any othermatter mentioned in this handbook without further notice.

Dear Student,

As Rector Magnificus of Erasmus University Rotterdam, it gives me much pleasure to welcome youto almost 100 years of academic excellence at Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR). Since itsestablishment, EUR has been at the centre of educational distinction, educating prominentpoliticians, business leaders, and academicians, and preparing students to become fine citizens.We cherish our roll in society and are proud to continue this tradition of excellence which we hopeto pass on to generations to come.

We see it as an honour that you have made us a partner in laying the foundation of your career.As foreign student, you have made one of the most exciting decisions in your life, choosing to studyat Erasmus University, living in Rotterdam, and experiencing the Netherlands.

In my opinion international students contribute considerably to the success story of ErasmusUniversity Rotterdam. Internationalisation is an important part of academic training. Globalisationhas changed the way we look at our surroundings and how we deal with people around us.Travelling abroad, spending time in a different country and interacting with people from differentbackgrounds enriches the lives of staff and students. International students who visit ErasmusUniversity add a new dimension to our academic community, further enhancing our internationalreputation. In the development of our curricula, we take the international nature of our studentpopulation into account.

Erasmus University has its roots in Rotterdam and is strongly linked to the city and region. Rotterdamis Europe’s main sea gateway and plays and important role in shipping and handling goods in theworld. With its 177 different nationalities, Rotterdam has an international flavour. About fiftypercent of the people living in this city has parents or grandparents who came from abroad. Thisdiversity is also reflected in our student population. We are proud to be part of this dynamic city.

In your strive to achieve academic excellence, it is not only important to work and study hard butalso to enjoy your stay in the Netherlands. Take the time to experience the Netherlands, visit its 17th-century cities and its countryside. The Netherlands has much to offer and you would be amazed bythe variety of this small country and its people.

To help you prepare for this journey, we have compiled information with regards to living andstudying in Rotterdam, as well as useful information about the Netherlands. In this handbook youwill find everything from pre-departure advice to introductory activities at the university and how tosettle yourself and get around Rotterdam once you have arrived.

Finally, I am looking forward to welcoming you at the Erasmus University Rotterdam. I wish you awarm stay at our university, Rotterdam and the Netherlands.

Best regards,Prof. dr. H.G. SchmidtRector Magnificus Erasmus University Rotterdam


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A Students under 18If you are still under 18 when you decide to study atErasmus University Rotterdam, there are a few extrapoints you need to bear in mind.

VisaIn some cases you will have to take a notarisedletter and a full birth certificate to the visaapplication interview if you need to apply for a visa.

Credit card and opening a bank accountIn most cases you are not allowed to apply for acredit card in the Netherlands if you are under 18.Ask the bank in your home country if they offer theoption of applying for a ‘partner credit card’, if oneof your parents holds a credit card.To open a bank account in the Netherlands if youare under 18, one of your parents must co-sign theagreement.

Medical release formIn the unfortunate event that a student under theage of 18 has a medical emergency, the consent ofthe parents or legal guardians is required beforeany medical treatment can be given. Please bring asigned medical release form with you. This formmust include the consent of your parents or legalguardians for medical treatment in case ofemergency, and their full contact details.

B Immigration proceduresMost international students from outside theEU/EEA studying in the Netherlands for more than90 days need to apply for an entry visa and/or Dutchresidence permit.

Check the Nuffic student visa wizard to find out ifyou need an entry visa and residence permit, or onlya residence permit.http://www.studyinholland.nl/practical-matters/visa-wizard.

If you need an entry visa and/or residence permit,Erasmus University Rotterdam will start up theapplication procedure on your behalf. You willreceive detailed information after you have beenadmitted to the programme of your choice. Anumber of supporting documents is required for theapplication:

Proof of unconditional admission to a studyprogramme at Erasmus University RotterdamProof of sufficient financial meansOriginal passport photo that meets the DutchcriteriaCopy of a valid passportStudents currently studying in another EU-country:copy of their residence permit or visaChinese students only: Nuffic certificate.

Detailed information regarding the immigrationprocedures for international students can be foundon our website www.eur.nl/welcome.


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Chapter 1

Pre-departure information

http://www.studyinholland.nl/practical-matters/visa-wizard


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C AccommodationFinding a place to stay while still in your homecountry can be quite difficult, so we advise you tostart your search for accommodation as soon aspossible. The list below gives the four main optionsfor finding accommodation in Rotterdam. Beforeaccepting an offer, read the rental conditions of thehousing provider carefully, so that you know yourrights and obligations!

Vestia Rotterdam StadswonenErasmus University Rotterdam has outsourced thetemporary housing to Vestia RotterdamStadswonen. The monthly rent for most rooms is€500 to €600, including gas, water, electricity, taxesand services, depending on availability and yourpersonal wishes. There’s more information, likephotos and videos, about the accommodation that’sspecially reserved for international students ofErasmus University Rotterdam on the followingwebsite: http://housing.eur.nl.In the Short Stay Reservation System (SRS) of theShort Stay Department of Stadswonen you canregister as seeking a room: http://www.shortstay.nl/.

FlexwonenFlexwonen is also a housing partner of ErasmusUniversity Rotterdam which helps internationalstudents to find and rent a room or apartment froma private owner. The website www.flexwonen.nloperates entirely on a landlord-to-tenant basis, anddoes not provide mediation. Advantages: freeregistration, no application fee.

HousingAnywhereHousingAnywhere is another housing partner ofErasmus University Rotterdam where internationalstudents coming to Rotterdam can rent a furnishedroom from Dutch students who are temporarilyleaving Rotterdam. HousingAnywhere operatesentirely on a student-to-student basis, and does notprovide mediation. Students who are going onexchange for a few months offer their room on thiswebsite, and international students can responddirectly to the advertisements:http://www.housinganywhere.com/.

Alternative housingAnother option for finding accommodation inRotterdam is private housing agencies. A list ofthese agencies is provided on http://housing.eur.nl/.On this website you can also find many otherwebsites where housing is offered.You could also keep an eye on Facebook, forinstance the group of Erasmus Student NetworkRotterdam (ESN-Rotterdam), where current(international) students sometimes offer their roomfor rent. The group is called ESN-RotterdamHousing.

In addition, Erasmus MC (University Medical Centre),the district of Delfshaven, two housing corporationsand the Medical Faculty Society Rotterdam havejoined forces to offer easy access to various kinds ofhigh-quality accommodation in this part ofRotterdam. Further information is available onhttp://www.erasmusmc.nl/internationaloffice.

Hostels in RotterdamIf, for any reason, you cannot move into youraccommodation immediately after you arrive inRotterdam, or if you haven’t arranged anyaccommodation in advance, you can easily book aroom in a hostel.We advise either Stayokay(http://www.stayokay.com/) or ROOM(http://www.roomrotterdam.nl/). Both are located inRotterdam city centre. Stayokay offers a specialprice for EUR students.


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D InsurancePlease ensure that you are properly insured duringyour time in the Netherlands. By law, it is mandatoryto have health insurance. We also recommendtaking out liability insurance. If you live in studentaccommodation it is also a good idea to have fireand furnishings insurance.

Health insuranceInternational students are not automatically insuredfor medical assistance in the Netherlands. Beforeyou come to the Netherlands, you need to makesure that you are properly insured against the costsof medical services. There are three health insurancepossibilities:

a) Dutch public health insuranceIn certain circumstances, for instance if you take apart-time job or do a paid internship, you areobliged to have Dutch public health insurance.Nuffic has produced a factsheet that will help you tofind out whether the Dutch public health insuranceapplies to you. You can find it at the followingwebsite: http://www.nuffic.nl/bestanden/documenten/toelating/verblijf/verblijf/verzekeringen/health-insurance-for-international-students-in.pdf/viewYou can take out your insurance with any Dutchpublic healthcare insurer. The prices, what is onoffer and the service can differ so it is worth to shoparound.AON offers the possibility to take out a publichealth insurance that can be swapped back to aprivate health insurance package at all times. Thismay be useful in case you only occasionally have apaid job next to your studies.

b) Insurance in your home country that covers yourstay in the NetherlandsThe Netherlands has health insurance treaties with anumber of countries, including most other Europeancountries. If you’re insured under the nationalhealth insurance scheme of one of those countries,your insurance company can provide you with eitheran international declaration form or a EuropeanHealth Insurance Card. Make sure that you bringthis with you to the Netherlands, as you will need itif you see a doctor here.

c) A new or special insurance policy for your stay inthe NetherlandsIf your insurance in your home country doesn’tcover your stay in the Netherlands, and you can’tmake use of an international treaty as describedbefore, you will have to take out private insurance.For non EU/EEA students it is always recommendedto take out a Dutch private health insurance.Erasmus University Rotterdam strongly recommendsan AON or IPS insurance. Both companies have along and excellent history in the field of healthinsurance for international students.Both companies also offer package deals, whichcover other things like liability insurance and legalassistance.AON: https://www.students-insurance.eu/index.jsp?language=enIPS: http://www.studentsinsured.com/ips/.

Please note that if you take a job in the evenings orweekends, even if it’s for just one hour a week, youneed to have the basic Dutch public healthinsurance.

See the Nuffic website for the most up-to-dateinformation about health insurance:http://www.nuffic.nl/international-students/how-to-prepare/insurance.

NB: If you are obliged to take out a Dutch publichealth care insurance (in Dutch: zorgverzekering) itis likely that you are eligible for compensation foryour insurance costs. This compensation is calledhealth care allowance. If you do not participate inthe public health care insurance scheme (but youare insured via an independent policy with aninsurer such as AON or IPS) you will not be eligiblefor health care allowance.Please see the Nuffic website for more information:www.nuffic.nl > International students > How toprepare > Insurance > Health care allowance.

http://www.nuffic.nl/pdf/service/factsh/health-insurance.pdf

http://www.nuffic.nl/pdf/service/factsh/health-insurance-for-international-students-in-holland.pdf

http://www.nuffic.nl/international-students/how-to-prepare/insurance

http://www.nuffic.nl/bestanden/documenten/toelating-verblijf/verblijf/verzekeringen/health-insurance-for-international-students-in.pdf/view


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E FinancesCosts of living in the Netherlands

Experience has shown that students living andstudying in Rotterdam spend approximately €1,000a month. This amount is needed to cover dailyexpenses, meals, accommodation costs, insurance,study books etc. This estimate does not includetuition fees and unforeseen costs, and should beused as a general indication of the costs of living.How much money you will actually need dependson your life style. The costs for housing, forexample, may differ considerably. Also, if you planto travel during your stay, you will obviously needmore money.

An example of an overview of average livingexpenses per month:

Accommodation (furnished, including(shared or individual) utilities) € 500 - € 600Insurance € 55Books and study materials (may varyper study programme) € 100Daily expenses (food, drinks, clothes,going out, public transport, etc.) € 350

Other (non-recurrent) expenses:Visa and residence permit fees(for non-EU students) € 600Bicycle (second-hand) € 50 - € 100Unforeseen expenses (high medicalor telephone bill, etc.) € 300

A number of items with their average prices:Cup of tea or coffee in a café € 2.50Cheese sandwich € 4.00Big Mac € 4.00Meal in a typical student restaurant € 12.50Cinema ticket € 10.00

GrantsErasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) itself does notoffer any grants or scholarships to internationalstudents. However, there are several otherorganisations that offer grants and scholarships tostudents studying at EUR, and you could try toobtain financial support from your home institution,government agencies in your home country orinternational organisations (e.g. UN, World Banketc).

a) GrantfinderThe Netherlands Student Grantfinder(http://www.grantfinder.nl/) is an online searchengine for people who want to study in theNetherlands and are looking for financial assistance.The Grantfinder contains information on a range ofDutch scholarships for international students.

b) Scholarship PortalThe European Scholarship Portal(http://www.scholarshipportal.eu/) integrates thefunding opportunities for studying, working orperforming research in one of the Europeannations. The portal aims to encourage and assiststudents worldwide to find and select appropriatescholarships to study in Europe.

c) ‘Studiefinanciering’Dutch students and other European students mightbe entitled to a grant from the Dutch EducationExecutive Agency (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs,DUO). Check the DUO wizard to see if you’reeligible for a grant at the following website:http://www.ib-groep.nl/studiepunt/nationaliteitenschema/natschema.asp?taal=en.

Preparing to open a Dutch bank accountIf you’d like to open a Dutch bank account for yourstay at Erasmus University Rotterdam, you can dothis at several banks. The three most well-knownbanks are ABN AMRO, ING and Rabobank. ABNAMRO has a bank shop on both universitycampuses.

You can start preparing your application for an ABNAMRO bank account in your home country. This will

http://www.ib-groep.nl/studiepunt/nationaliteitenschema/natschema.asp?taal=en

make the process faster once you arrive in theNetherlands. The first step in the procedure foropening an account is to fill in the application formfor an International Student Account on theinternational students’ pages of the ABN AMRObank website:http://www.abnamro.nl/internationalstudents. Afterfilling in the form electronically you must print it,sign it and send it by regular mail to the followingaddress:

Erasmus Universiteit RotterdamDept of Student AffairsP.O. Box 17383000 DR Rotterdamthe NetherlandsIf you have already arrived in the Netherlands, youmay also drop your ABN-AMRO application form inthe mailbox at the ESSC in the E-building.

ABN AMRO bank will send you an email to make anappointment as soon as they receive your form, soyou must ensure that your email address is correct.

Please note that this might be a time-consumingprocedure. It could be quicker to open a bankaccount at a different bank once you arrive in theNetherlands. For instance, at ING bank or Rabobankit only takes a week to open a bank account. Seethe next chapter for more information.

Working in the NetherlandsDuring your stay in Rotterdam as a student atErasmus MC, we strongly advice against taking onan extra job, alongside your studies. You will needyour valuable time to study, prepare for classes,write reports, and perform your research projects inthe lab.

Other students at Erasmus University Rotterdam arenot adviced against taking a job. However, you needto keep in mind that it is hard to find a (part-time)job in the Netherlands, as most jobs require you tospeak Dutch (fluently).Plus, beware that once you take out a job alongsideyour studies, you need to have the Dutch healthinsurance as well and you will have to pay incometax.

The current rules for working alongside your studiesare described below:a) Students from EU/EEA countries, includingSwitzerlandStudents from most countries of the EuropeanUnion, and students from the European EconomicArea including Switzerland, are allowed to work inthe Netherlands without restrictions. Your employerdoes not need to apply for a work permit and youmay work as many hours as you wish. However, youmust pay income tax, so you will need a taxregistration number (Dutch: Burger Service Nummer,BSN).Exception: if you are a national of Romania orBulgaria, your employer will still need to apply for awork permit.b) Students from outside the EU/EEAStudents from outside the EU/EEA with a validresidence permit are allowed to work up to amaximum of 10 hours per week throughout theyear, or full-time during the months June, July andAugust. Your employer will need to apply for awork permit before hiring you.

For the most up-to-date information about workingwhile studying, please visit the Nuffic website:http://www.nuffic.nl/international-students/living-in-holland/working-while-studying.


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F Travelling from Schiphol Airport toRotterdamFrom Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam the mostconvenient way to travel to Rotterdam is by train.There are yellow ticket machines in the baggagecollection hall. After going through Customs justfollow the signs to the train station. There are alsoyellow ticket machines at the train station. Thetrains to Rotterdam CS (Central Station) leave every15 or 30 minutes (or every hour during the night),depending on the time and the day. The trainjourney takes about 50 minutes and a ticket costsabout €11.

Pick-up serviceErasmus University Rotterdam organises a free pick-up service at the beginning of every semester. InJanuary and August several buses leave fromSchiphol Airport on selected dates, taking newinternational students to Erasmus University,Woudestein campus. If you rent a room throughVestia Rotterdam Stadswonen, you can collect yourkey on the bus and be dropped off at youraccommodation, if arranged in advance. Moreinformation and the dates of the pick-up service willbe announced on the following website:http://www.eur.nl/english/essc/welcome/before_arrival/get_to_rotterdam/pickup/.

G Travelling from your home country toRotterdamRotterdam can be accessed in many different ways:by plane, boat, bus, car and train. There are regularflights from all major cities in the neighbouringcountries to Rotterdam Airport, and the city itselfhas an extensive network of buses, trams and metro.

By planeNearby airports in the Netherlands are RotterdamThe Hague (14 km), Amsterdam Schiphol (66 km),Eindhoven (110 km) and Maastricht (200 km). Otherinternational airports close to Rotterdam areAntwerp and Brussels, and even Dusseldorf andParis are just a quick, easy journey away.

By boatRotterdam is very easy to reach by boat fromEngland. You take the boat to Hoek van Hollandand from there, Rotterdam city centre is only 30minutes away by train or car.

By busRotterdam has a bus terminal, near the central trainstation. Eurolines coaches connect Rotterdam withover 500 towns and major cities across Europe andMorocco. See their website for more information:http://www.eurolines.nl/en/.

By carRotterdam is easy to access by car from Germany viathe A15 or A16, and from Belgium via the A16.

By trainYou can reach Rotterdam by train from manydirections, including Belgium, Czech Republic,Denmark, France, Germany, Luxembourg,Switzerland and the UK. See the Dutch internationalrailway company’s website for more information:http://www.nshispeed.nl/en.

http://www.eur.nl/english/essc/welcome/before_arrival/get_to_rotterdam/pickup/


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Things to do before departure

Essential:Make a financial plan

Make sure you have sufficient funds to supportyourself and to pay your tuition feesApply for grants and/or scholarshipsMake sure you have enough money in euros tocover your expenses for the first couple of daysin the Netherlands

Accept your offer (if applicable)Register for your study programmeRegister in StudieLink (if applicable)Pay your tuition fee (if applicable)Make sure your passport is valid for the time thatyou’ll be staying in the Netherlands and checkwith the authorities in your home country howmany months your passport still needs be validfor upon your return therePrepare the necessary documents for your visaand/or residence permit (if applicable), and if youneed a visa, obtain it before you travelArrange your health (and other) insuranceDecide how and when to get to Rotterdam

Book tickets (if applicable)Arrange accommodation in Rotterdam, at leastfor your first (couple of) night(s)

Optional:Start your bank account applicationSign up for the pick-up serviceRegister for a crash-course DutchRegister for the central introduction activitiesRegister for the faculty introduction activities.Please note: in some cases the facultyintroduction activities are compulsoryMake someone you trust your acting managerFor instance, for your bank account: if you loseyour bank card, it is good to have authorisedsomeone in your home country to arrange anew one for you if necessary

Things to pack before departure

Essential:Your passportIf you’re staying for more than 4 months:legalised birth certificate (necessary for yourregistration at City Hall), with a legalisedtranslation if it’s not in English, Dutch, French orGermanProof of your healthcare insuranceTickets and journey detailsCredit cardSome cash moneyClothing for temperatures between -5°C and 25°C(between 23°F and 77°F)Toiletries BagMedications (if applicable)Emergency phone numbers

Optional:Your (international) driver’s licensePassport photos (you will need a few during yourfirst days in the Netherlands)CameraMobile phoneLaptop / tabletTravel adapterMusic playerSportswearSwimwearExtra contact lenses or spare pair of glassesSunglassesUmbrella (it rains quite often in the Netherlands)TowelsBed linen (not necessary if you rentaccommodation from Stadswonen)Travel guideDictionaryInternational Student Identification CardFirst Aid kit

H ChecklistsWe’ve created two checklists for you: one with all the things you need to do before you leave your homecountry, and one with all the things you need to pack and bring with you. When you’ve ticked all the boxes ofboth checklists, you’re ready to leave for the Netherlands and are all set for a smooth start at ErasmusUniversity Rotterdam!

A Working on tomorrow’s campusErasmus University Rotterdam has seven faculties orschools and a number of institutes. Six faculties arelocated on the university Woudestein campus,situated in the east of the city. The faculty ofMedicine and Health Sciences, located near the citycentre, is part of the Erasmus Medical Centre, one ofthe largest medical centres in Europe.

Erasmus University Rotterdam is the home base foraround 20,000 students, and every year the numbersare increasing. In order to prepare this campus forthe future, ambitious plans have been developed.By 2013 for Woudestein, and 2017 for Erasmus MC,some of these plans will already have been realised.This means that construction activities are currentlyunderway, and they will be taking place while studyand work on campus continue as normal. Clear,well-organised construction logistics will help tolimit any inconvenience. Find out more athttp://www.eur.nl/english/campus_facilities/construction_campus/.

B Immigration proceduresIf you need a residence permit for studying in theNetherlands, the application procedure has mostlikely already been started before your arrival in theNetherlands (please see the pre-departureinformation in Chapter 1).

When your residence permit card is ready you willbe informed by Erasmus University Rotterdam aboutwhen and where you can pick it up.

Depending on your nationality you might have totake a tuberculosis check upon your arrival in theNetherlands. The tuberculosis check is free of chargeand appointments in advance are not necessary. Youcan find more information athttp://www.ggdrotterdamrijnmond.nl/language/en.html.International students need to undergo atuberculosis check if they do not have one of thefollowing nationalities: EU/EEA countries, Australia,Canada, Israeli, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand,Surinam, Swiss, the United States and Vatican City.

C Registration at City HallIf you’ll be staying in the Netherlands for more than4 months you must register at City Hall of themunicipality where you’re living. After registeringyou’ll be given a Citizen Service Number (Dutch:Burger Service Nummer, BSN), which is required bysome banks, such as ABN AMRO, if you want toopen a bank account. You will also need a BSN-number if you take on a job or paid internship inthe Netherlands.

In order to register, you need to have the followingdocuments, so make sure that you take them allwith you to City Hall:Valid passport or identity cardLegalised birth certificate (authenticated or withapostil)A fully completed registration formA rental contract or a declaration by the mainoccupant, or a housing permit for those who do notlive in accommodation provided by StadswonenStudents from the Netherlands Antilles or Aruba:proof of your deregistration from the MunicipalPersonal Records Database there.Your Dutch student residence permit (if applicable)

You can download the registration form anddeclaration form athttp://www.eur.nl/english/essc/welcome/upon_arrival/cityhall/. At this website you can alsofind more information about the registrationprocess and contact details.

If you change your address later during the year,you must notify the Civil Affairs Department of theCity Hall where you are registered.


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Chapter 2

First days at Erasmus University Rotterdam

http://www.eur.nl/english/campus_facilities/construction_campus/

http://www.ggdrotterdamrijnmond.nl/language/en.html

http://www.eur.nl/english/essc/welcome/upon_arrival/cityhall/


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D Introduction activitiesErasmus University Rotterdam offers manyintroduction activities for new internationalstudents at the beginning of every semester.The introduction activities in each semester aremostly the same, but at the beginning of theacademic year in August the Eureka week is alsoheld. Most of these activities take place at theuniversity Woudestein campus, unless mentionedotherwise.

EurekaweekEureka week is the orientation week of ErasmusUniversity Rotterdam. EUREKA stands for ‘ErasmusUniversiteit Rotterdam Eerstejaars KennismakingsActiviteiten’, which is Dutch for ‘Erasmus UniversityRotterdam First-years’ Orientation Programme’. Theweek is organised by the Eurekaweek StudentCommittee, and its main purpose is to get youacquainted with the university, the city and thestudent life of Rotterdam, as well as with yourfellow students. During Eurekaweek two seniorstudents from your study programme will be yourguides, to help you make the most of your week.Participation is not mandatory. This August theEurekaweek will take place from 20 till 23 August.See http://www.eur.nl/english/eurekaweek/ for moreinformation and registration.

Faculty orientation programmesSee your faculty’s website for more information.Participation is mandatory in most cases.

Central orientation activitiesThe Department of Student Affairs organises a feworientation activities that are useful for allinternational students. Participation is notmandatory, but highly recommended. Registrationfor most activities and more information can befound at http://www.eur.nl/welcome/, unlessmentioned otherwise.• Crash course DutchAlthough most Dutch people speak Englishrelatively well, and you should be able tocommunicate with them without difficulty, a basicknowledge of the Dutch language will definitelycontribute to your knowledge and understanding ofthe country and its people.The Language & Training Centre of Erasmus

University Rotterdam offers crash courses Dutch inboth August and January. The crash courses aretaught during the day on weekdays for 2,5 or 3weeks. During that period, two course levels arecovered. If you take one of these courses and yourent a room at Vestia Rotterdam Stadswonen, youwill receive a once-only discount of €150 on onemonth’s rent.This August the crash course Dutch will be givenfrom 1 August till 17 August. For more informationand registration see http://www.eur.nl/ltc/.• Buddy programmeThe buddy programme, organised by ErasmusStudent Network Rotterdam (ESN-Rotterdam), aimsto help new students establish a social and academicnetwork from day one, and to contribute to makingthe start of your stay in the Netherlands anenjoyable and exciting experience.Your buddy’s job is to:Introduce you to the university and the ways ofstudent life.Encourage students to get to know each other.Take the buddy groups on a guided tour aroundcampus and participate in various activities withthem during the first few weeks of the semester.Help you with all the issues you might encounter atthe beginning of your stay in Rotterdam.Request a buddy through: http://www.esn-rotterdam.nl/content/request-buddy.• Practical information market/sessionsMost international students who have just arrived inthe Netherlands are faced with many practical issuesthey have to arrange: opening a bank account,taking out the right healthcare insurance andarranging transport within the city, to name a few.You can find information about all these issues andabout housing at the information market or duringthe information sessions.The practical information market will take placeTuesday 28 August from 13:00 hrs till 16:00 hrs andin January or February 2013.• Campus toursHow to find your way around the campus is one ofthe first things that new (international) studentsneed to learn. The campus tours are guided by ESNbuddies and they will tell you exactly where to gofor the best coffee, where to get a decent meal andwhich buildings you will have to go to during yourtime at EUR. Some faculties also offer campus tours.


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The campus tours will take place on a daily basisfrom 27 till 30 August, every day at 12:00 hrs. and inJanuary and February 2013.• ‘Getting to Know the Netherlands’ workshopThis workshop is designed especially forinternational students who have just arrived in theNetherlands, so they can gain an understanding ofwhat makes the Dutch Dutch. Issues like Dutchculture and the Dutch way of life are addressed.The workshops will be held on 29 and 30 August2012 and 14 September 2012 at 10:00 hrs and inJanuary or February 2013.• Weekly coffee hoursYou are invited to come to our weekly coffee hoursin the Erasmus Sport café in the Sports Centre on 9August 2012 and every Thursday afternoon afterthat up to and including 13 September 2012. Thecoffee hours start at 15:00 hrs and last till about16:30 hrs. This way you can get to know otherinternational students in an informal and relaxedsetting. The next round of coffee hours will takeplace in January and February 2013.• ESN introduction daysEvery semester, ESN Rotterdam organises greatlyappreciated introduction days for internationalstudents. Join them on what may be the mostimportant days of your stay in Rotterdam! They’llmake sure you get to know the best places in thecity, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet a lot ofthe other internationals coming to Rotterdam.The ESN introduction days will be from 26 August2012 till 28 August 2012 and in January 2013. Formore information and registration see http://esn-rotterdam.nl/• Official welcome ceremony for new internationalstudentsEvery semester new international students arecordially invited to attend the official welcomeceremony. The official welcome ceremony consistsof two parts: the formal part where the RectorMagnificus and a keynote speaker from one of thefaculties welcome all new international students toErasmus University Rotterdam; and the informalpart where you’ll have the chance to meet yourfellow international students and experience trueDutch cuisine.The official welcome ceremony concludes all theintroduction activities. The Official welcome will beheld on 11 September 2012 and in February 2013.

E Opening a Dutch bank accountInternational students who want to open a Dutchbank account can do so at several banks:

ABN AMROThe ABN AMRO bank has a bank shop on bothuniversity campuses. You don’t need a BSN to openan account, you will receive your bank card after 4working days and your account can be used after aweek. You can read more about the applicationprocedure and information on how to open anaccount on their website:http://www.abnamro.nl/internationalstudents.

INGAnother bank where you could open a Dutchaccount is ING bank. Although in our experienceinternational students are usually able to open anaccount at ING quickly, this bank does not have abank shop on the university's campus and theinformation on their website is only available inDutch. You don’t need a BSN to open an account,you will immediately receive a bank card and youraccount will be opened instantly as well.If you wish to open account at ING bank, we adviseyou to visit the ING office at Goudsesingel 97 inRotterdam. More information can be found at theING-bank website www.ing.nl (only in Dutch).

RabobankAnother bank where you could open a Dutchaccount is Rabobank. You don’t need a BSN to openan account, you will receive a bank card after 5working days, but your account will be openedimmediately. Rabobank also doesn't have a bankshop on campus. More information can be found atwww.rabobank.nl (only in Dutch).


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F Erasmus Student Network RotterdamErasmus Student Network Rotterdam (ESN-Rotterdam) works closely with the InternationalOffices of all faculties, the Director of StudentAffairs, Study and Student Associations, and otherrelevant bodies within Erasmus UniversityRotterdam to enhance the academic and socialexperience of international students in Rotterdam.In this framework and with this purpose, ESN-Rotterdam endeavours to foster friendships that willtranscend boundaries and will enlarge theprofessional and social networks of internationalstudents.

ESN-Rotterdam sees itself as an ambassador forErasmus University Rotterdam and for the city ofRotterdam, and in this way it hopes to enhance theexperience of each international student whenstudying and living in Rotterdam. In addition, ESN-Rotterdam aims to be a student organisation that isavailable to every international student. It organiseslots of activities, and you can contact the board ifyou have any questions.

ESN-Rotterdam is located on Woudestein campus inthe N-building, room N1-13. See its website foroffice hours: http://esn-rotterdam.nl/ and find ESNor one of their many groups on Facebook (ESN-Rotterdam).

G Sigma Delta PhiSigma Delta Phi (SDP) was founded by 5 girls, afterrealising that a sorority was missing forinternational girls at Erasmus University Rotterdam.However, SDP aims to combine the features of botha student and a study association.Together with other girls they want to developlasting relationships while bringing theinternational students together. By forming a closegroup of talented female students they want tocreate a multicultural environment where girls canget the most out of themselves.Sigma Delta Phi will be there to enrich students’lives in both business and social ways. In short, theywant to make your student life as memorable aspossible. Their vision: Sigma Delta Phi will provide aplatform for students with an international mind-set. Female only, it will focus on two pillars: Business

and social. Maintaining close connections with EUR,they will provide girls with workshops, charitydinners, social drinks, cultural events, parties andcity trips.More information about their events and becominga member can be found at http://www.sigma-delta-phi.nl/index.html.

H Getting onlineTo make use of the computer facilities or thewireless network at either of the EUR campuses andto log on to the university websites from home orany other location, you are given an ErasmusRemote Network Access (ERNA) account. Youraccount name and password will be sent to you bymail after registration in StudieLink or providedduring the faculty introduction week meeting(StudieLink is not applicable to all programmes atEUR). More information on this account can befound at http://www.eur.nl/english/erna/.Both Woudestein and Erasmus MC have freehotspots on campus as well.

I Getting a mobile phone or SIM cardESN-Rotterdam has free SIM cards that you cancollect from its office (N1-13). The SIM card provideris Lebara, which has cheap rates for calling otherpeople with a Lebara SIM card.If you’d like to buy a mobile phone or get a SIMcard from a different provider, you can go to one ofthe other providers’ shops in the Rotterdam citycentre. The best-known Dutch providers are KPN, Hi,Vodafone, T-mobile, Telfort, Ben and Tele2.Of course you could also order a mobile phone orSIM card online, but as most websites are in Dutch,we advise you to ask ESN-Rotterdam to help youwith this.

A Erasmus Student Service CentreThe Erasmus Student Service Centre (ESSC) providesclear and up-to-date (online) information for newinternational students on student registration,finances, making appointments with counsellors andvarious other services. If you have any questions thatdo not relate to your study programme, you cancontact the ESSC. The ESSC is located in the hall ofthe E-building on Woudestein campus. See thewebsite for further informaton:http://www.eur.nl/english/essc/Erasmus MC students can also visit the InternationalOffice, which is located in the FD 3 corridor onErasmus MC campus.

B Educational system in the NetherlandsWhen you come to the Netherlands to study youwill probably expect that many things are not thesame as in your home country: climate, lifestyle,traffic, food, clothes and religion for example. Butyou may also find that the Dutch grading system issomewhat different from your own.To help set your expectations, we have listed someinformation on the Dutch educational system.

Dutch grading systemA student’s workload is measured in ECTS (EuropeanCredit Transfer System) credits. According to Dutchlaw, 1 credit represents 28 hours of work and 60credits represents one year of full-time study.The assessment system in the Netherlands consists ofmarks from 1 (very bad) to 10 (outstanding). Themarks 1 to 3, 9 and 10 are seldom given. A minimumscore of 6 is required to pass a course. For markswith one decimal point, 5.5 is the minimum passmark. For the programme as a whole, an averagemark of 8.25 or higher entitles the student to a passcum laude (with distinction).

Comparing your marksSeveral countries use grading systems that looksimilar to the one used in Holland. One example isthe 1-100 system. However, it would be inaccurateto compare a 90-100 grade in such a system with a10 in the Dutch system, or a 80-90 with a 9, and soon.An 80 in China, for example, is not considered agood grade since most grades in higher education inChina are between 80 and 100. In Holland, however,an 8 is a very good grade, since most grades arebetween 6 and 8; only excellent students achieve agrade higher than 8.

Dutch way of teachingRespect for each individual’s opinions andconvictions are a national virtue that gives strengthto the fabric of the Netherlands’ diverse and pluralsociety. This is the foundation of the teaching


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Chapter 3

All you need to know aboutstudying at EUR

method used at the Dutch educational institutions.The teaching style can be described as interactiveand student-centred, providing students with theattention and freedom they need to develop theirown opinions and creativity in applying their newlyacquired knowledge.

Problem-based learningThe Netherlands have received international acclaimfor its groundbreaking problem-based learningsystem, which trains students to analyse and solvepractical problems independently through emphasison self-study and self-discipline.A large portion of all study programmes isdedicated to writing papers, working in groups toanalyse and solve specific problems, acquiringpractical work experience through internships, andconducting experiments in laboratories.

Interaction in classInteraction in class is highly appreciated. Studentsare expected to think about the knowledge that ispresented to them and develop and express theirown opinion. They should not be passive, but askquestions instead and be critical of what lecturers orfellow students say.

Learning the languageWorking together in the international class roomshould go smoothly, as everyone speaks English.Nevertheless, it would be good to be able to minglein conversations in Dutch and contribute todiscussions in Dutch between local classmates. Thismay make working in groups even more interestingand meaningful.You could take several Dutch courses at theuniversity's Language & Training Centre. Seehttp://www.eur.nl/ltc/ for more information.

C Binding Study AdviceAt Erasmus University Rotterdam, as at other Dutchuniversities, new Bachelor’s students need to followthe binding study advice (this is not applicable forexchange students). This means that you need toobtain a minimum number of credits in your firstyear of registration to be able to continue yourstudies. One year of study adds up to 60 ECTScredits. 1 ECTS credit is about 28 hours of work.In the first year, you need to obtain a minimum of40 ECTS credits out of a possible 60. Every course inthe first year is equivalent to a set number ofcredits. The credits for the courses you have passedcan simply be added up in order to determine thetotal number of credits you have earned and howmany you still need to earn in order to fulfil therequirement. For more information, please visithttp://www.eur.nl/english/essc/advice_counselling/binding_study_advice/.

D Student Information Network OnlineStudents at EUR receive regular updates by emailand via the online student information channel SIN-Online (Student Information Network Online). Youcan log on to the site using your ERNA account atthe following websites: http://www.sin-online.nl/and http://emc.sin-online.nl/channel/ for Erasmus MCstudents. Interesting channels to subscribe to arethe Erasmus Student Service Centre and theInternational Student Information.


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E LibrariesEUR University Library

The EUR University Library collection includesaround one million books, over 10,000 periodicalsand access to more than 300 digital databases in allscientific areas that are taught and studied at EUR.You may borrow books from the library free ofcharge, but a student card or library card isrequired. Publications not available in the UniversityLibrary can be requested from another library for asmall charge. There are 450 study places in theUniversity Library. The University Library is locatedon Woudestein campus, in the B-building. Moreinformation can be found athttp://www.eur.nl/ub/english/.

Faculty and institutional librariesEMC, ESL, IHS, ISS and RSM also have their ownspecific libraries. More information about thefaculty and institutional libraries can be found onthe University Library websitehttp://www.eur.nl/ub/english/ under the ‘Librariesand collections’ section.

Rotterdam Central LibraryRotterdam Central Library in the city centre, nearthe metro station Blaak, has six floors and over onemillion books. The Central Library is a social andcultural information centre where you can read(international) newspapers and magazines, seeexhibitions and listen to music. You can borrowbooks, projection slide series, films and DVDs.Studying at and obtaining information from thelibrary is free of charge, but you will need amembership card if you want to borrow books orother items. More information can be found athttp://www.bibliotheek.rotterdam.nl/EN/Pages/Welcome.aspx.

F Language & Training CentreThe Language & Training Centre (LTC) offerslanguage courses in Chinese, Dutch, English, Italianand Spanish. All courses are classified according tothe Common European Framework of Reference(CEFR). In order to determine which level suits youbest, the LTC organises intakes in the variouslanguages four times a year.The courses take place on Woudestein campus(starting at 17:30 hrs) and usually start in October,January and April. Apart from these eveningcourses, you can participate in crash courses in themonth of January (Dutch) and August (Dutch,English and Spanish).For a limited number of international students theLTC has a very interesting offer: you can eitherparticipate for free in a Dutch crash course or payonly € 50 for a regular Dutch beginners course!Read about the conditions on their website.

For languages other than those mentioned above(such as German and French), the LTC cooperateswith other language institutes. See the websitehttp://www.eur.nl/ltc/ for more information aboutthe various options and schedules.

Other activities offered by the LTC are:Academic writing for Bachelor/Master students (thedo’s and don’ts of writing academic texts)ITP-TOEFL test (at least once a month)Courses in the area of study skills (e.g. EffectiveStudying).

For more information about language courses,intakes, study skills and other services of the LTC,go to www.eur.nl/ltc.


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G Student organisationsStudent fraternities

Erasmus University Rotterdam has several studentfraternities which are open to internationalstudents. For a summary of all the fraternities, seethe ‘student life’ section athttp://www.eur.nl/welcome/.

Study associationsEvery school has at least one study association. Somehave just one association for the whole school,while in other schools every programme has its ownassocation.Study associations try to bridge the gap betweentheory and practice, and organise activities for allstudents interested in that specific field of study.They often offer discounts on your study books,study-related trips (abroad) to interestingcompanies and social drinks. For a summary of allstudy associations, see the ‘student life’ section athttp://www.eur.nl/welcome/.

Cultural organisationsStudium Generale organises lectures, debates andworkshops on scientific, social and cultural issues.Erasmus Cultuur organises a wide range of culturalactivities and courses, such as dancing, photographyand playing the guitar. It also sells tickets forconcerts, theatre, comedy and dance productionswith student discounts.There are several student cultural societies to beactive in on Erasmus University. Together withErasmus Cultuur, these societies form the CulturalPlatform of the EUR. Whether you like acting,dancing or making music, in each field you'll find asociety.Visit http://www.eur.nl/english/sgec/ to find outmore about culture on the EUR campuses.

Other organisationsIn addition to the organisations listed above,Erasmus University Rotterdam has many otherorganisations for (international) students, such assports organisations, political organisations,international organisations and many, many more.For a summary of all student organisations, see the‘student life’ section at http://www.eur.nl/welcome/.

H Erasmus PrideErasmus Pride is a network for lesbian, gay, bisexualand transgender (LGBT) employees and students inErasmus University Rotterdam and the Erasmus MC.Erasmus Pride was inspired by the Company PridePlatform and has partially adopted its vision andobjectives.Erasmus Pride regularly organises social gatheringsfor employees and students. See their website forthe upcoming activities and contact information:http://www.eur.nl/english/erasmuspride/.

I Sports CentreThe university’s Sports Centre has two sports halls,five squash courts, a fitness gym and six open-airtennis courts. You can choose from a wide range ofsports, including basketball, boxing, aerobics,athletics and football, and also take lessons intennnis or squash. You can also learn to dive or playgolf at a reduced price. You can simply arrange toplay together, but are of course also welcome toparticipate in competition teams and to join thestudent sports clubs.To make use of the sports facilities, you can buy asports card at the reception desk of the S-buildingfor approximately €20 (1 month) or €45 (3 months).For fitness you will have to pay an extra €10 (1month) or €20 (3 months). For every new sportscard a deposit of €5 must be paid. Moreinformation can be found athttp://erasmussport.nl/index.php?&lang=en.Students at Erasmus MC are naturally also welcometo make use of these facilities.

J Sustainability on campusAs one of the leading universities EUR strives forexcellence in everything it does, includingsustainability. Student activists in collaboration withenthusiastic university representatives are workinghard to make the campus greener. EUR isdetermined to reduce its ecological footprint andyou can contribute your part by for example reusingyour water bottle, printing on double-sided recycledpaper and storing food in reusable containers.Together we can make the change!GreenEUR is one of several sustainable organisationspresent on campus, bringing together all partiesinterested in sustainability. Visit


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http://www.greeneur.nl/ or send an email [email protected] for more information.For information on recycling, waste streams,sustainability and campus contacts visithttp://greeningrsm.ning.com/ or email a campusrepresentative of Greening RSM [email protected].

K Facilities on Woudestein campusPC workstations

There will be at least one room with PCworkstations in your faculty building. Two places oncampus that can be used by all Erasmus Universitystudents, regardless of their discipline, are theUniversity Library and the G-building.There are 196 PC workstations in four readingrooms in the University Library. If all the PCworkstations in the library or your faculty buildingare taken, you can use the IT facilities in the G-building next to the University Library.The G-building has a large number of PCworkstations and group work areas, PCs withprinting facilities in PC rooms, meeting studios,Hotspots and plug-ins for your laptop. The G-building is open from 8:30 – 17:00. Reservations formeeting studios can be made at the desk in G1-39,by phone (010 408 24 84), or by email:[email protected].

Printing on campusOn Woudestein campus, Service Point is the serviceprovider for all your reprographic and printing jobs,as well as mailings. Their copy shops provide allfacilities for ‘do it yourself’ printing, photocopyingand binding.The service desk in the V-building delivers fullprinting service. It is open Monday to Friday,08:45 – 17:00.

Banking facilitiesABN AMRO Bank has a branch at Erasmus MC and atWoudestein. Both branches offer a full package offinancial services for both commercial and privatecustomers. As neither branch has cash facilities, it isnot possible to deposit or change money there.On Woudestein campus the bank is located betweenthe V-building and the L-building.

Cash dispensersThere are three cash dispensers on Woudesteincampus, where you can obtain cash using your bankcard. Two cash dispensers are located in the wall ofthe bike shed between the T- and the L-building.The third one is located at the bank shop betweenthe V- and L-building.

Studystore / BookstoreThe student bookshop Studystore is located in theV-Building in VB-40 on Woudestein campus. Thebookstore focuses mainly, but not exclusively, on theacademic community. It aims to have all books fromthe current university reading lists in stock. Inaddition to the prescribed literature, Studystore hasa lot of other recent academic literature in stock, aswell as general literature, postcards, office suppliesand gifts. Read more at their website:http://www.studystore.nl.

Erasmus ShopStichting Erasmus Shop produces and sells readersand syllabi as certified publisher for the variousfaculties of Erasmus University Rotterdam. TheErasmus Shop also offers students and staff licensedsoftware, office supplies, relations gifts and Erasmusmerchandise. The Erasmus Shop is located on the V-building on Woudestein campus. Read more at theirwebsite: http://www.erasmusshop.nl/.

Where to eat and drink on Woudestein?Woudestein campus offers a variety of places to eator to take a break. There are food plazas and coffeecorners in the H-, J-, L- and T-buildings.There is a grand café (Siena) in the H-building, aself-service restaurant in the H- and L-building, andthe student café (In de Smitse) in the T-building.

ReligionPastors from various churches work together in thestudent rectory. The student pastor makes timeavailable for discussing philosophy of life, ethicalquestions and personal questions about life; thesediscussions are strictly confidential. Moreover, healso tries to contribute to reflection on topics likephilosophy of life, anthropology and ethics withinvarious faculties, by organising discussions andmeetings at the university. Read more athttp://www.spr-vision.nl/en-index.htm.


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NSR is an open, Christian student society that offersstudents the possibility to think about the meaningof life and the Christian faith. Send them an emailat [email protected] for more information.

To enable Muslim students to fulfil their prayerobligations, the university provides prayer facilities.On Woudestein campus these are located in the N-building and can be visited from 08:00 to 18:00. TheMuslim prayer area is designated for prayer andcontemplation for Muslim students and staff. It isfor individual use. The prayer room is not used byother religions and is oriented towards the East. Inthe front section, ritual washing facilities areavailable. Prayer mats and a Koran are alsoavailable.

KASEUR is a collaboration of multicultural studentorganisations connected to Erasmus University ofRotterdam. For an overview of all organisations,please see their facebookpage:http://www.facebook.com/pages/KASEUR/373874732917.

HairdresserThere is a women’s and men’s hairdresser in the V-building. It charges a special rate for students andsenior citizens.

Baggage lockersIf you wish to store bags or personal items, you maydo so in the baggage lockers in the temporaryentrance to the University Library (building B). Useof the lockers is free of charge.

L Facilities on Erasmus MC campusPC workstations

PC workstations are available on Erasmus MCcampus in the Medical Library. The Medical Library islocated in the Ee-building, on the second floor.

Printing on campusStudents at Erasmus MC can go to the MedicalLibrary for copying and there are additional printingfacilities at the Océ shop, room FD-307. It is openMonday to Friday, 09:00 – 17:00.

Banking facilitiesABN AMRO Bank has a branch at Erasmus MC and atWoudestein. Both branches offer a full package offinancial services for both commercial and privatecustomers. As neither branch has cash facilities, it isnot possible to deposit or change money there.On Erasmus MC campus the bank is located in theFD corridor.

Cash dispensersOn Erasmus MC campus there is a cash dispensernext to the ABN AMRO bank in the FD corridor.

Where to eat and drink on Erasmus MC?There is a self-service restaurant on the second floorof the EC wing and an espresso bar on the thirdfloor of the EC wing near the security booth. This isalso the location of PillsPlaza, a bar run by theMedical Faculty Society Rotterdam, open everyMonday and Wednesday from 15:00 to 19:00. In theSophia Children’s Hospital there is a restaurant aswell on the second floor and a warm platerestaurant ‘Dijkers’ is located on the first floor Vwing.

ReligionEUR has a student chaplaincy. Student chaplains areavailable if you would like to speak to themconfidentially about anything: your experiences, lifeand death, relationships, faith, your aims and ideals.They also organise groups for sharing anddiscussion, and lectures on spirtuality, socialresponsibility and dialogue between differentreligions. Read more athttp://www.spr-vision.nl/en-index.htm.


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NSR is an open, Christian student society that offersstudents the possibility to think about the meaningof life and the Christian faith. Send them an emailat [email protected] for more information.

To enable Muslim students to fulfil their prayerobligations, the university provides prayer facilities.On Erasmus MC campus these facilities are locatedbetween lecture halls 3 and 4, in the EC wing and inSophia Children’s Hospital on the first floor, roomSK1-250. There is also a quiet room that you can usein the H-building (north wing), on the first floor.

KASEUR is a collaboration of multicultural studentorganisations connected to Erasmus University ofRotterdam. For an overview of all organisations,please see their facebookpage:http://www.facebook.com/pages/KASEUR/373874732917.

Baggage lockersThere are lockers in the Medical Library, in the Ee-building, on the second floor.

M Safety and securityBy international standards, the Netherlands is a safecountry with low levels of violence and street crime.However, Rotterdam is a large city. As in all largecities, it is important to watch your belongings, bothon and off campus.In case of an emergency where there is danger tolife or a crime is being committed, you can contactthe police, fire or ambulance services by dialling 112from any phone (free of charge).

Emergency?On Woudestein campus, dial 010 408 11 00On Erasmus MC campus, dial 010 703 40 04Off campus, dial 112, the national emergencynumberIf you are on Erasmus MC campus and you useinternal calls, dial*12 for cardiac massage*15 for emergency

Emergencies can occur anywhere and at any time.Erasmus University therefore has on-campus securityservices. The security organisation ensures that EURis able to deal with an emergency effectively. EUR’s

emergency teams only act in case of an emergency.Depending on the scale and type of emergency, theemergency team leaders decide which officials arein which teams. The security organisation is there toprotect visitors, students and employees.

N Advice and CounsellingStudy advisor

Every faculty has its own study advisor(s). Forcounselling or advice concerning the content ofyour study or faculty, you can schedule anappointment with a study advisor. A study advisorcan give you advice and guidance concerning thestudy programme, compensation regulations, studyplanning, study progress and study delay, theBinding Study Advice, individual arrangements incase of illness, personal circumstances and top-levelsport, writing a request to the examination boardand studying abroad etc. See your faculty’s websitefor the contact details of your faculty’s studyadvisor.

Student counsellorStudent counsellors offer students advice,counselling and information about study methods,choice of study programme, questions regardingtheir studies and being a student, and practicalsubjects as well as personal matters or problems.Student counsellors can assist students withquestions and problems relating to the studentpersonally as well as his or her studies. It is their jobto help you find answers to your questions andsolutions to your problems in personal andconfidential interviews. If another person orinstitution is better able to help you with yourproblem, the student counsellors can refer youaccordingly.Student counsellors are also responsible forhandling complaints about the conduct or actions ofemployees and organisational aspects of theuniversity in relation to students (ombudsmanfunction). For more information please visit:http://www.eur.nl/english/essc/advice_counselling/professional/counsellors/.

University psychologistIt is not uncommon for students to experienceproblems during their studies. This is sometimescaused, for example, by having to adjust to


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independent living, relationships that are not goingwell or events that are difficult to process. Often it isnot exactly clear whether study-related or personaldifficulties are the cause or the consequence of theproblem. One thing is clear: a vicious cycle has beencreated. The University psychologists can help tobreak this cycle.The goal of the university psychologists is to helpstudents resolve problems that prevent them fromfocusing on their studies. The aim of the initialorientation consultation is to help the psychologistgain a better understanding of the symptoms orproblem and to examine the connection betweenthe problem and the student’s course of study. Thisconsultation is sometimes enough to help getsomeone back on track, but more often furthercounselling is required. This takes the form ofparticipation in individual or group therapy. If theUniversity psychologists cannot provide the rightkind of help they can refer you to the appropriatesupport services. For more information please visit:http://www.eur.nl/english/essc/advice_counselling/professional/psychologists/.

Careers advisorThe transition from study to a career is not alwayseasy, so it is a good idea to prepare yourself for thisstep in good time. It is also wise to think carefullyabout your choice if you are contemplating aMaster's degree. You can do this by exploring thejob market and considering your opportunities onthe job market. If you feel you could use someadvice in this area you can make an appointmentwith the careers advisor of Erasmus UniversityRotterdam. During a consultation with the careersadvisor, your personal characteristics, talents, desiresand expectations are discussed, as well as such issuesas exploration of the job market, job application,networking, psychological test/assessment methods,career planning and salary negotiation.For more information please visit:http://www.eur.nl/english/essc/advice_counselling/professional/careers_advice/.

Studying with a disabilityIf you would like more information about facilitiesand accommodation for students with impairedmobility, or would like to discuss personal functionaldisablities – such as dyslexia, a physical handicap, a

chronic and/or psychological disorder which couldaffect your performance as a student – then pleasecontact an EUR staff member via the ESSC. Youmight be eligible for help. Read more athttp://www.eur.nl/swd/.

Confidential counsellorErasmus University Rotterdam places greatimportance on the students’ and staff’s ability towork in a pleasant and productive atmosphere. EURhas appointed two confidential counsellors, one forstudents, and one for employees. They serve as thecontact person for anyone who has been confrontedwith unwanted behaviour (such as sexualharassment, aggression and violence) or unequaltreatment in their study or work environment.

Scheduling appointmentsYou can schedule an appointment with a studentcounsellor or a university psychologist. An interviewwith a student counsellor or a universitypsychologist is strictly confidential. This can be doneby phone on 010 408 2323 or in person via theErasmus Student Service Centre, which is located inthe E-building on the ground floor.The contact details of study advisors and theconfidential counsellor can be found online atwww.eur.nl/english/essc under ‘Advice andcounselling’.An appointment with the careers advisor can bemade online.

Top-level sportMany people believe that studying and top-levelsport is a difficult and time-consuming combination.The Erasmus Topsport Bureau (ETB) offers supportto students who practise sport at top level. Thissupport may be in the study field but can alsoencompass a financial contribution from the ETB.More than fifty top-level sportspeople are currentlyregistered with the ETB. The ETB is located in the S-building in room SB-37 at the Sports Centre. Youcould contact the ETC at [email protected] find more information atwww.eur.nl/topsportbureau (only in Dutch).


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http://www.eur.nl/english/essc/advice_counselling/professional/psychologists/

http://www.eur.nl/english/essc/advice_counselling/professional/careers_advice/

O HealthGeneral practitioner

For medical assistance, it is usual in the Netherlandsto first consult a general practitioner (Dutch:huisarts), before visiting any specialist in thehospital.Erasmus University Rotterdam has madearrangements with the following generalpractitioners.

Students living in Rotterdam Zuid can go to:Gezondheidscentrum AfrikaanderwijkMaashaven Oostzijde 155Tel: 010 485 41 11Emergency : 010 485 68 59Entrance hours: appointment only

Students living in Kralingen can go to:Dr. C.H. Baar-Poort / Dr. F.E.E. van der DoesNoordeinde 97Tel: 010 412 24 30Entrance hours: 07:45 – 08:15

Dr. C.J. Jansen / Dr. C.G.M. Jansen van AmenOudedijk 60UTel: 010 452 78 78Emergency: 06 551 508 31Entrance hours: appointment onlyClosed on Wednesday

Gezondheidscentrum DWL de EschRijnwaterstraat 10Tel: 010 452 63 63Emergency: 010 452 54 83Entrance hours: appointment only

If you do not live near one of these doctors, youshould find a general practitioner in your areayourself.

If you need medical assistance after office hours orduring the weekend, you should contact the GP out-of-hours service (Dutch: huisartsenpost). There aretwo of these in Rotterdam:

Central districtHuisartsenpost SFGKleiweg 5003045 PM RotterdamTel: 010 466 95 73

South districtHuisartsenpost ZuidMaasstadweg 593079 DZ RotterdamTel: 010 290 98 88

DentistAppointments for the following recommendeddentists (Dutch: tandarts) should be made inadvance; cash payments only.

Tandartsenpraktijk StrevelswegStrevelsweg 121Tel: 010 485 92 06To make an appointment you can call between10:00 and 17:00

Mondzorgcentrum NoordereilandDe Ruyterstraat 4-6Tel: 010 414 12 00To make an appointment you can call between10:00 and 17:00

Tandartspraktijk Voorschoterlaan (Tandarts Uys)Voorschoterlaan 130ATel: 010 413 28 93To make an appointment you can call between10:00 and 17:00

Pharmacy and chemistMost medications are only available on prescription.You will be given the prescription by the generalpractitioner and can collect your medication(s) at apharmacy (Dutch: apotheek).The chemist (Dutch: drogist) sells medications thatdo not require a prescription, such as aspirin andcough medicine. There is always a pharmacy open,even in the weekend. Every pharmacy posts a noticein its window showing which pharmacy is open inthe evenings and weekends.


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HospitalsThe main hospital (Dutch: ziekenhuis) in Rotterdamis the Erasmus Medical Centre. It is located at ‘sGravendijkwal 230. Tel: 010 704 07 04.For other hospitals in Rotterdam and their contactdetails, see the last chapter of this handbook.

PhysiotherapistDimitri Motz is the physiotherapist (Dutch:fysiotherapeut) on Woudestein campus. His practiceis located in the Sports complex. You can contacthim to make an appointment for a consultation via010 408 18 74. More information can be found athttp://www.fysiotherapiewoudestein.nl/ (only inDutch).

P Working in the NetherlandsDuring your stay in Rotterdam as a student atErasmus MC, we strongly discourage taking an extrajob alongside your studies. You will need yourvaluable time to study, prepare for classes, writereports, and conduct your research projects in thelab.

Other students at Erasmus University Rotterdam arenot advised against taking a job, but you shouldbear in mind that it is hard to find a (part-time) jobin the Netherlands, as most jobs require you tospeak Dutch (fluently).Moreover you should be aware that as soon as youtake a job alongside your studies, you also need tohave Dutch public healthcare insurance and you willhave to pay income tax.

The current rules for working alongside your studiesare summarised below:

Students from EU/EEA countries, includingSwitzerlandStudents from most EU countries, and students fromthe EEA including Switzerland, are allowed to workin the Netherlands without restrictions. Youremployer does not need to apply for a work permitand you may work as many hours as you wish.However, you must pay income tax, so you will needa Citizen Service Number (Dutch: Burger ServiceNummer, BSN).Exception: if you are a national of Romania orBulgaria, your employer will need to apply for awork permit.

Students from outside the EU/EEAStudents from outside the EU/EEA with a validresidence permit are allowed to work up to amaximum of 10 hours per week throughout theyear, or full-time during the months June, July andAugust. Your employer will need to apply for awork permit before hiring you.

For the most up-to-date information about workingwhile studying, see the Nuffic websitehttp://www.nuffic.nl/international-students/living-in-holland/working-while-studying.


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Chapter 4

Rotterdam and the Netherlands

A The Netherlands and the DutchThe Netherlands is a country in north-westernEurope with a population of nearly 17 million. It is aparliamentary democracy and constitutionalmonarchy. The capital is Amsterdam and the seat ofGovernment is The Hague.The Netherlands is often called ‘Holland’, which istechnically incorrect as North and South Holland areactually only two of its 12 provinces. The word‘Dutch’ (or ‘Nederlands’ in Dutch) is used to refer tothe people, the language and anything pertainingto the Netherlands.

According to Lonely Planet: “There aren’t manycountries with so much land below sea level. Therearen’t many - if any - countries this flat. There aren’tmany countries with so much reclaimed land. Therearen’t many countries this densely populated, andyet so liberal. There aren’t many countries with somuch water and wind, or so many boats, sails, bikes,birds, dykes, polders, windmills, flowers, fish,bridges, cafés, cheese - and tall people. And therecertainly aren't many countries who can claim such avibrant colour (vivid orange in this case) as theirown. Simply put, there is no place like theNetherlands.” (Introducing the Netherlands, 2010).

The Netherlands has a culture of openness andtolerance towards the rest of the world and towardseach other. This attitude is reflected both in businessand in social life. Most people know the Dutch asdown-to-earth and direct in their communication.

National holidays and celebrations5 December 2012 Sinterklaas (not an official

holiday) Sinterklaas, theoriginal version of Santa Claus,is celebrated in Flanders andthe Netherlands. Loosely basedon Saint Nicholas, this fictionalcharacter arrives each year fromSpain to hand out presents andsweets to children

25 December 2012 Christmas Day26 December 2012 Second Christmas Day – Boxing

Day31 December 2012 New Year’s Eve (not an official

holiday)

1 January 2013 New Year’s Day29 March 2013 Good Friday (not an official

holiday)Religious holiday forChristians, commemoratingthe crucifixion of Jesus Christ

31 March 2013 EasterReligious holiday for Christians,commemorating theresurrection of Jesus Christ

1 April 2013 Easter Monday30 April 2013 Queen’s Day

Celebration of the birthday ofQueen Beatrix’s late motherJuliana, as a day of nationalunity. On this day the RoyalFamily visits one of the Dutchcities or villages, a lot of peoplewear orange clothes, wave flagsand drink beer. Others will holdor visit rummage sales in thestreets. A lot of festivities takeplace all over the country

4 May 2013 Memorial Day (not an officialholiday)The ‘Dodenherdenking’ is heldfor those who fought and diedduring World War II, or in latercombat or peacekeepingoperations. Throughout thecountry two minutes of silenceare observed at 20:00

5 May 2013 Liberation Day (not an officialholiday)Celebrated to mark the end ofthe occupation by NaziGermany during World War II

9 May 2013 Ascension DayReligious holiday for Christians,commemorating the ascensionof Jesus Christ into heaven

19 May 2013 Pentecost – Whit SundayReligious holiday for Christians,50 days after Easter, celebratingthe descent of the Holy Spiritupon Jesus Christ’s disciples

20 May 2013 Pentecost Monday – WhitMonday

B LanguageThe official language in the Netherlands is Dutch,which is spoken by the vast majority of theinhabitants. Another official language is Frisian,which is spoken in the northern province ofFriesland.English is understood and spoken at a fair level byalmost everyone in the Netherlands.

C ClimateThe Netherlands has a typical ‘marine climate’. Insummer, fine, hot weather may last for weeks, butthe weather can just as well be cool and unsettled.In winter, spells of cold weather lasting from a weekto two months or more may cause rivers and canalsto freeze, but in mild winters this may not occur atall. Rainfall is well distributed over the year. Averagedaily sunshine amounts range from 2 hours inJanuary to between 7 and 8 hours in June. Theaverage daily temperature in January is around 5°Cand in June around 20°C. To check the weatherforecast you could usehttp://www.theweathernetwork.com/ orhttp://www.meteovista.co.uk/.

D RotterdamRotterdam is now the second largest city of theNetherlands, with over 600,000 citizens, and thepopulation of the greater Rotterdam region isaround 1.2 million. This all started with just buildinga dam in the river ‘Rotte’ in 1270. The city wasgranted a charter in 1340. In the 15th century,Rotterdam produced perhaps its most famous son:Desiderius Erasmus, one of the founders ofHumanism. Erasmus University Rotterdam is namedafter this philosopher.

Rotterdam is located on the River Maas and isfamous for its port, the largest in Europe andsecond largest in the world, earning it the name‘gateway to Europe’. Rotterdam is only a shortdistance from Europe’s most magnificent cities –London, Paris, Barcelona, Berlin, Brussels andAmsterdam.Cultural life in Rotterdam is vibrant. There is a wideselection of museums, including modern art,historical treasures, architecture, photography,historical ships and exotic animals. The skyscrapersadorning the skyline along the river are fineexamples of what modern architecture has to offer,while there is still a historic heart within the city. It isthose skyscrapers that have given Rotterdam thenickname of ‘Manhattan on the Maas’.

Rotterdam is famous for its many festivals andevents. It is also a true sports city and holds manysports events, such as its world famous marathon, aworld tennis tournament, the largest outdoorinternational equestrian event in the Netherlands,and many more. For up-to-date information aboutevents and festivals, checkhttp://en.rotterdam.info/visitors/,http://www.rotterdamfestivals.nl/public andhttp://weownrotterdam.nl/.


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E Tourist informationRotterdam has a lot to offer in many ways. If you’dlike to explore the city but have no idea what this‘Manhattan on the Maas’ has to offer, you can go tothe tourist information website or the touristinformation office in the city centre to get an initialimpression of Rotterdam and what you can see, doand experience in this vibrant city. The websitehttp://en.rotterdam.info/visitors/ also has an eventscalendar, which will tell you what’s going on today,this week or this month.

F Getting aroundBicycles

To get around quickly, easily and cheaply, buy abicycle (Dutch: fiets). However, make sure that youalways use a good quality bicycle lock.A second-hand bicycle in reasonable shape will costyou approximately €150. Second-hand bicycles canbe bought at most bicycly shops and at the bicycleshelter at Central Station.

At Erasmus MC there is a bicycle repair shop in thebasement of the He-building, open Monday,Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.

Public TransportTo plan your journey there is one website thatcombines all public transport through all of theNetherlands and which helps you plan your journeyfrom door to door: http://9292.nl/en.

The Rotterdam Transportation Authority (Dutch:Rotterdamse Electrische Tramwegmaatschappij, RET)provides mass transit services in the greaterRotterdam area by tram, bus, metro and ferry. Moreinformation can be found athttp://www.ret.nl/?sc_lang=en.To make us of the public transport in theNetherlands, you need a public transport chipcard(Dutch: Openbaar Vervoer chipkaart, OV-chipkaart).Personalised, anonymous, and/or disposable cardscan be purchased online, from RET ticket offices andfrom RET ticket machines at metro stations. Apersonalised or anonymous card that could be usedmultiple times costs €7.50. More information abouttraveling with the OV-chipcard can be found athttp://www.ov-chipkaart.nl/?taal=en.

Dutch rail services are widespread across thecountry, in most cases provided by Dutch Railways(Dutch: Nederlandse Spoorwegen, NS). Paper traintickets can still be bought directly from ticketmachines at the stations, but the OV-chipcard canalso be used. More information about the Dutchrailways, prices of tickets or travel information canbe found at http://www.ns.nl/en/travellers/home.

If you plan on travelling by train a lot, it might be agood idea to buy one of the six discount passes.Information is only available in Dutch unfortunately,but you could use Google Translate for thefollowing website with information about thediscount passes:http://www.ns.nl/reizigers/campagnes/nieuwe-abonnementen.

CarsWith such a good public transport infrastructure inthe city, we advise you not to bring your car into theRotterdam city centre, where parking or a parkingpermit is very expensive. However, you mightsometimes need or want to hire a car. WithStudentCar, you can rent a car by the hour and pickup the car from Woudestein campus. Moreinformation can be found at http://studentcar.nl/en/.

For an extensive overview of traffic rules and signsin the Netherlands, see the following website:http://english.verkeerenwaterstaat.nl/english/Images/IenM_RVV-brochure_2011_ENG_tcm249-303142.pdf.


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http://www.ns.nl/reizigers/campagnes/nieuwe-abonnementen

http://english.verkeerenwaterstaat.nl/english/Images/IenM_RVV-brochure_2011_ENG_tcm249-303142.pdf

G Postal servicesYou can buy stamps for letters and postcards, orsend larger packages, from post offices at variouslocations in Rotterdam. Mail can be posted at thesepost offices (bearing the sign Postkantoor and/orPostNL) or at any of the red or orange mailboxesyou find in the street. Some PostNL post officesoffer ING banking services. It is possible to pay billsat these post offices, even if you don’t have an INGaccount, but you may have to pay a small charge.PostNL post offices are open on weekdays, usuallyfrom 08:30 – 17:00 or 08:30 – 18:00. Most PostNLpost offices are closed on Saturdays and Sundays.For more information see their websitehttp://www.postnl.nl/ (only in Dutch).

H WaterClean drinking water is available straight from thetap throughout the country.

I Shopping, supermarkets and marketsShopping

Rotterdam is a fabulous shopping city any season ofthe year. Even on Sundays, when many shops in theNetherlands close their doors for a day off,shopaholics can indulge themselves in Rotterdam.From exclusive to popular, from megastore to smallboutique, situated in an arcade or a bustling street,Rotterdam has it all.

SupermarketsThe larger supermarkets in Rotterdam are open 7days a week. Most of them are open until 20:00every day except Sunday, when they mostly close at18:00. Albert Heijn supermarkets are considered thebest, ALDI and LIDL the cheapest. Besides groceries,most supermarkets sell stamps, toiletries and mobilephone prepaid credit.

MarketsWeekly open-air markets for affordable fresh food,flowers and clothing are held on Saturdays at theBinnenrotte square in the city centre, and in otherlocations, such as the Visserijplein in the west ofRotterdam and Afrikaanderplein in the south.

J EmergencyFirst Aid

If you need medical assistance, you should firstcontact your general practitioner. After office hoursand during the weekend, you should contact the GPout-of-hours service (Dutch: huisartsenpost). Thereare two of these in Rotterdam:

Central districtHuisartsenpost SFGKleiweg 5003045 PM RotterdamTel: 010 466 95 73

In case of a life-threatening emergency or ifimmediate medical assistance is needed, you can gethelp 24 hours a day at the EHBO (‘First Aid’) or SEH(‘Accident & Emergency’) department at anyhospital. See the last chapter of this handbook forthe contact details of hospitals in Rotterdam.

EmergencyIf you need the police, fire and/or ambulanceservices in a serious life-threatening situation, callthe (European) emergency telephone number: 112.

If you need the police in a non-emergency situation,call 0900-8844.

On-campus emergencyIn case of an accident, danger or emergency onWoudestein campus, call 010 408 11 00.On Erasmus MC campus, call 010 703 40 04.

K Rotterdam Pass: lots of discounts!There’s always plenty to do in Rotterdam and withthe Rotterdam Pass you can do many of these thingsfor less, or even for nothing! The price of thestandard Rotterdam Pass is €60, but as a studentyou can get it for just €12,50.You can buy the Pass at the Rotterdam Pass Shop inRotterdam Central Library or at the Study Store onWoudestein campus. You will need a passportphoto, your student ID card and a valid ID. Moreinformation about the deals you get with the passcan be found at http://www.rotterdampas.nl/ (onlyin Dutch).


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South districtHuisartsenpost ZuidMaasstadweg 593079 DZ RotterdamTel: 010 290 98 88


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The ESSC (Erasmus Student Service Centre) offersservices at the central university level for(international) students. If you have any questionsthat do not relate to your study programme, youcan contact the ESSC. The ESSC is located in theE-building on Woudestein campus.

ESSC also has an informative website for all newinternational students:http://www.eur.nl/welcome/. Besides the websitethere is also ASK Erasmus, an online database.International students can easily find answers tofrequently asked questions about different studentrelated matters. If you can’t find the answer in thedata base, use the online form and you will receivean answer within two working days.

If you have questions relating to your studyprogramme, please ask the International Office ofyour faculty, as most services are covered by yourfaculty staff members.Find your answer in ASK Erasmus viahttp://www.eur.nl/english/essc/ask/.

A Faculty information

Erasmus Medical Centre (EMC)Educational Support Centre – team Graduate SchoolRoom Ee302, Erasmus MC campusMs Q. KassriouiTel. +31 (0)10 - 703 82 73Tel. +31 (0)10 – 703 84 50Fax +31 (0)10 - 704 46 80Email: [email protected]://www.erasmusmc.nl/internationaloffice/?lang=en

International Office Erasmus MCRoom FD 3 corridor, Erasmus MC campusMs Katien Singels / Ms Evelien Ikking / Mr John vander VoortTel. +31 (0)10 - 703 88 00Email: [email protected]://www.erasmusmc.nl/internationaloffice/?lang=en

Erasmus School of Economics (ESE)Exchange programmes:Room H6-02, Woudestein campusTel. +31 (0)10 408 13 80Email: [email protected]

Master and Pre-Master programmes:Room H6-02, Woudestein campusTel. +31 (0)10 408 13 80Email Master programmes: [email protected] Pre-Master programmes: [email protected]

International Bachelor programmes:Room H6-02, Woudestein campusTel. +31 (0)10 408 13 80Email IBEB / Econometrics:[email protected]://www.eur.nl/ese/english/information_for/prospective_students/

Chapter 5

Contact / Further information

http://www.eur.nl/ese/english/information_for/prospective_students/

http://www.erasmusmc.nl/internationaloffice/?lang=en

http://www.erasmusmc.nl/internationaloffice/?lang=en

Erasmus School of History, Culture andCommunication (ESHCC)Exchange Programmes:http://www.eshcc.eur.nl/english/practicalinformation/http://www.eshcc.eur.nl/english/welcome

Ms S. DoodkorteInternational Officer History and Culture StudiesRoom L3-30, Woudestein campusTel. +31 (0)10 408 28 74Fax +31 (0)10 408 91 35Email: [email protected]

Ms. E. HamiltonInternational Programme Coordinator Media &CommunicationRoom L3-83, Woudestein campusTel. +31 (0)10 408 22 71Fax +31 (0)10 408 91 35Email: [email protected]

International Bachelor in Communication andMedia (IBCoM):Ms. B. GrashoffRecruitment & Admissions CoordinatorRoom L3-94, Woudestein campusTel. +31 (0)10 408 12 48Fax +31 (0)10 408 91 35Email: [email protected]

Erasmus School of Law (ESL)LL.M. Office, Mr. André van der Schee and MsMariska BoshovenRoom L5-069, Woudestein campusPhone number: +31 (0)10 408 9764Fax number: +31 (0)10 408 9175Email: [email protected]://www.esl.eur.nl/home/education/

International Office, Ms Annet WapenaarRoom L5-069, Woudestein campusTel. +31 (0)10 408 26 50Email: [email protected]://www.esl.eur.nl/english.

Faculty of PhilosophyMs T. HeroldRoom H5-23, Woudestein campusTel. +31 (0)10 408 89 67Fax +31 (0)10 408 90 30Email: [email protected]://www.eur.nl/fw/english/exchange/

Faculty of Social Sciences (FSS)Ms R. Minnibajeva and Ms M. VreeswijkRoom M7-33, Woudestein campusTel. +31 (0)10 408 86 22Tel. +31 (0)10 408 20 41Fax +31 (0)10 408 90 98Email: [email protected]://www.eur.nl/fsw/english/international_office/

Institute of Health Policy and Management(iBMG)Ms I.M. van der HorstRoom J7-33, Woudestein campusTel. +31 (0)10 408 85 37Email: [email protected]://www.hepl.nl/newstudents

Rotterdam School of Management, ErasmusUniversity (RSM)Mrs L.C. de VriesRoom T05-24, Woudestein campusTel. +31 (0)10 408 19 84Fax +31 (0)10 408 90 24Email: [email protected]://www.rsm.nl/Welcome

International Business programmeBSc International Business Administration (IBA)IBA Office – Ms. Shirley AccordRoom T05-18, Woudestein campusTel. +31 (0) 408 95 91Fax. +31 (0) 408 95 72www.rsm.nl/bsciba


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B Useful addresses and links

Emergency telephone number: 112Local police, non-emergency: 0900-8844

Erasmus University Rotterdam

Erasmus University RotterdamWoudestein campusBurgemeester Oudlaan 503062 PA RotterdamTel: 010 408 1111www.eur.nl/english

Erasmus Medical CentreErasmus MC campusDr. Molewaterplein 503015 GE Rotterdamhttp://www.erasmusmc.nl/?lang=en

Rotterdam and Tourist Information

City Hall – StadhuisCoolsingel 403011 AD RotterdamTel: 14 010http://www.rotterdam.nl/home_english

Tourist Information – VVV RotterdamCoolsingel 195-197 (entrance Binnenwegplein)3012 AG RotterdamTel: 010 271 0120http://en.rotterdam.info/visitors/

Rotterdam Central LibraryHoogstraat 1103011 PV RotterdamTel: 010 281 6100http://www.bibliotheek.rotterdam.nl/(only in Dutch).

Netherlands Board of Tourismwww.holland.com

Lonely Planetwww.lonelyplanet.com

Tourist Office Rotterdamhttp://en.rotterdam.info/visitors/

Housing

Vestia Rotterdam StadswonenGoudsesingel 663011 KD RotterdamTel: 010 800 7200www.shortstay.nl

Hostel ROOMVan Vollenhovenstraat 623016 BK RotterdamTel: 010 282 7277www.roomrotterdam.nl

Stayokay Rotterdam HostelOverblaak 85-873011 MH RotterdamTel: 010 436 5763www.stayokay.com/rotterdam

NufficKortenaerkade 112518 AX Den HaagTel: 070 426 0260www.nuffic.nl

Other organisations

Centre for Work and Income (CWI)Schiekade 8303020 AL RotterdamTel: 010 850 2220www.werk.nl

Tax Office – Belastingdienst RotterdamLaan op Zuid 453072 DB RotterdamTel: 0800 0543www.belastingdienst.nl

Aon Students Insurancewww.students-insurance.eu

IPS Insurancehttp://www.studentsinsured.com/ips/

Dienst Uitvoering OnderwijsTel. 050 599 7755www.ocwduo.nl

Immigration and Naturalisation Office (IND)Tel: 0900 123 4561http://english.ind.nl/

Hospitals in Rotterdam

Centre DistrictErasmus MC‘s Gravendijkwal 2303015 CE RotterdamTel: 010 704 0704http://www.erasmusmc.nl/?lang=en

Havenziekenhuis (also Travel Clinic)Haringvliet 23011 TD RotterdamTel: 010 404 3300www.havenziekenhuis.nl

Centre/North DistrictSint Franciscus GasthuisKleiweg 5003045 PM RotterdamTel: 010 461 6161www.sfg.nl

East DistrictIJssellandziekenhuisPrins Constantijnweg 22906 ZC Capelle a/d IJsselTel: 010 258 5000www.ysl.nl

South DistrictMaasstad ZiekenhuisMaasstadweg 213079 DZ RotterdamTel: 010 291 1911http://www.maasstadziekenhuis.nl/en

Ikazia ZiekenhuisMontessoriweg 13083 AN RotterdamTel: 010 297 5000www.ikazia.nl


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Health

Emergency telephone number: 112Local police, non-emergency: 0900-8844

General practioner’s office after working hours andduring the weekend

Central districtHuisartsenpost SFGKleiweg 5003045 PM RotterdamTel: 010-466 95 73

South districtHuisartsenpost ZuidMaasstadweg 593079 DZ RotterdamTel: 010-290 98 88

All ‘Huisartsenposten’Huisartsenposten Rijnmond (SFG, IJsselland, R’damZuid, Ruwaard, Hellevoetsluis)http://huisartsenpostenrijnmond.nl/

Municipal Public Health Authority – GGDSchiedamsedijk 953011 EN RotterdamTel: 010 433 9966http://www.ggdrotterdamrijnmond.nl/

Transport

Dutch Railwayshttp://www.ns.nl/en/travellers/home

Public Transport plannerhttp://journeyplanner.9292.nl/

Public Transport Rotterdamhttp://www.ret.nl/?sc_lang=en

Schiphol airporthttp://www.schiphol.nl/index_en.html

Schiphol taxihttp://www.schipholtaxi.info/english/index.html

Route plannerhttp://routenet.nl/http://maps.google.nl


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General information

Undutchableshttp://www.undutchables.nl

How to survive in Hollandhttp://www.howtosurviveholland.nl/

NL Planethttp://www.nlplanet.com

Expaticahttp://www.expatica.com

Dutch culture (wikipedia)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_the_Netherlands

Holland Handbookhttp://www.xpat.nl

Dictionaries

Dictionary.comhttp://dictionary.reference.com/translate/text.html

Bing Translatorhttp://www.microsofttranslator.com/

LookWAYuphttp://lookwayup.com/free

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_the_Netherlands

C Maps


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2

4

3

1

BOUWTERREINCONSTRUCTION SITE

BOUWTERREINCONSTRUCTION

SITE

BOUWTERREINCONSTRUCTION SITE

BANK

Afgesloten routeClosed route

Erasmus Universiteit RotterdamCampus Woudestein

Bus stop

Cycle shed

Campus entrance

Building entrance

(Wheelchair) building entrance

Metro

Parking pay station

Parking area

ATM

Parking barrier

Tennis court

Tram stop

Footpath / cycle path

Wheelchair friendly route

A

B

C

E

F

G

H

J

L

M

N

P

S

T

V

W

Aula, Art Room, Crèche 'De Blauw Steur',

Cum Laude, Dept. of Corporate Planning

& Control, Dept. of Marketing &

Communications, Erasmus Gallery,

Examination Rooms, General

Management Directorate, Institutional

Development Office, Senate Hall,

University Ceremonies Office.

University Library.

Erasmus' Ambassadors Office, Erasmus

Shop, Reception, Service Point.

Dept. for Exam Administration, Erasmus

Magazine, Erasmus Student Service

Centre, SSC HR&F,

SSC OO&S, University Archive.

Student Housing.

PC rooms and student study areas.

Bank (ABN AMRO) / ATM, Central Goods

Delivery, De Etude (restaurant), Erasmus

School of Economics, Faculty Club

(restaurant), Faculty of Philosophy,

Post and Logistics, Siena (bar/restaurant),

SSC ICT, Tempo Team.

institute of Health Policy &

Management, Maria's Cantina

(restaurant), Rotterdam School of

Management, Erasmus University.

The Bakery (café), Corporate Auditing,

De Carrousel (restaurant), De Etage

(restaurant), Erasmus School

of History, Culture and Communication,

Erasmus School of Law, Service Point.

Erasmus Academy, Erasmus Expo and

Congress Centre, Faculty of Social

Sciences.

Student associations.

SSC EFB.

Erasmus Sports Center, Etappe Sports

Café, Physiotherapy.

DE-café, De Smitse (café), IHS, Institute of

Psychology, Rotterdam School of

Management, Erasmus University, The

Company (restaurant).

Hairdresser, Studystore.

Security.


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DROOGLEVERFORTUYNPLEIN

/

Erasmus MC

Bus stop

Cycle shed

Campus entrance

Building entrance

(Wheelchair) building entrance

Metro

Parking pay station

Parking area

ATM

Parking barrier

Tennis court

Tram stop

Footpath / cycle path

Wheelchair friendly route


36

Rotterdam


37

NederlandThe Netherlands


38

Public transportFrom Rotterdam Central Station to EUR

• with tram 21 in direction of De Esch.

Get off at stop Woudestein.

• with metro in direction of Spijkenisse / Slinge.

Change at station Beurs on metro in direction

of Capelle a/d IJssel, Ommoord or Nesselande.

Get off at stop Kralingse Zoom.

From station Rotterdam Alexander to EUR

Take the metro in direction of Schiedam

Centrum / Spijkenisse.

Get off at stop Kralingse Zoom.

By car to EUR WoudesteinOn the A16 highway take exit 25 'Centrum'. On the

roundabout continue to follow 'Centrum'. After

the roundabout at the traffic lights turn right onto

the road Burg. Oudlaan. Then turn right at the first

intersection onto Campus Woudestein.

From Rotterdam Central Station to ErasmusMC Faculty building• Bus 44/46 stop metro station Dijkzigt/Erasmus MC

• Tram 8 stop Erasmus MC

• Metro ABC line stop Dijkzigt

Metro

Schiedam Centrum <–> Binnenhof

Schiedam Centrum <–> Nesselande

De Akkers <–> De Terp

De Akkers <–> Rotterdam Centraal

Rotterdam Centraal <–> Den Haag Centraal

Tram

8 Erasmus MC

21 Woudestein

Bus

44 Erasmus MC

Overstapstation Transferstation metro en/of NS

Stop

Richting Direction

A

B

C

D

E

Public transport to EUR

DisclaimerParts of this text are taken from the Rotterdam School of Management handbook for newstudents. Used with kind permission of Recruitment & Admissions (BSc and MSc), RSM, ErasmusUniversity.

© 2012 Erasmus University RotterdamAll rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a computeriseddatabase or published in any other form, electronically, mechanically, by photocopying or byrecording in any other way, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Metro lines Rotterdam

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