Student Handbook 2009-2010

Student Handbook 2009–2010School of Business and Economics

SBE

Student Handbook2009-2010

School of Business and Economics

(SBE)

Student Handbook • SBE

3

SBE • Student Handbook

Colophon

Student Handbook for (International) StudentsSchool of Business and EconomicsMaastricht University

Published, edited and coordinated by:

Academic Guide Josi Sautter – Student Advising, School of Business and Economics

Thijs Verhagen – Student Advising, School of Business and Economics

Lavanya Nanthapalan – Student Advising, School of Business and Economics

Lonneke van Merwijk – Student Advising, School of Business and Economics

Practical Guide Renée Rijnders – International Relations Office, School of Business and Economics

Ellen Nelissen – International Relations Office,


Photography: Photostock UM Communicatie- en Relatiebeheer Camiel de Hoen, Berg en Terblijt Menno Roosjen, Maastricht

Lay-out and design by: Océ Business Services, MaastrichtPrinted by: Océ Business Services, Maastricht

Every effort has been made to provide information that is current and accurate.However the International Relations Office, School of Business and Economics, Maastricht University, can not be held responsible for any errors, omissions, and/or misinterpretations.

© All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilised in anyform or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or byany information storage or retrieval system, without prior written permission from thecopyright owner, or, as the cases may be, the publishers, beyond the exceptions providedby the Copyright Law.

Table of contents

ACADEMIC GUIDE

Academic Calendar 2009-2010 A1

1 Maastricht University A5

2 Student Handbook A7

3 Certificate of enrolment and UM smartcard A9

4 eleUM A11

5 A few basics on Education A135.1 Daylight saving time A135.2 Registration for education A135.3 Education Schedules A145.4 Study materials A155.5 Attendance and participation A15

6 A few basics on Exams A176.1 Daylight saving time A176.2 Registration for exams A176.3 Exam schedules A17 6.3.1 Possible times for exams6.4 Method of examination A186.5 Exam requirements A186.6 Exam locations A186.7 Examination rules A186.8 Exam training A196.9 Grading system A196.10 Study abroad average grade A19 6.11 Binding Study Advice A20

7 Faculty related information A217.1 eleUM A217.2 SurfYourSelf, the Information & Service Site A217.3 Information Desk A217.4 Observant A227.5 My UM Portal A22 7.6 E-mail account A22

8 Student Advisors of the Maastricht University School of Business and Economics A25


4 5


9 Student Facilities A279.1 University Library A279.2 Computer access A279.3 Mensa Academica Maastricht (MAM) A289.4 ATM (Automatic Teller Machine) and Chipknip A289.5 Copy shop and copying A28

10 Study Associations and International Student Associations A3110.1 FAME Cooperation Maastricht A3110.2 AIESEC A3210.3 AEGEE-Maastricht A32

11 Presentation of your own views and ideas A3411.1 Student Council A34

A = Academic Guide P = Practical Guide

PRACTICAL GUIDE

1 The Netherlands and the City of Maastricht P11.1 The Netherlands P11.2 The History of South Limburg and Maastricht P31.3 Maastricht: an overview P4

2 Money matters P72.1 The euro P72.2 Changing money P72.3 Opening a Dutch bank account P7 2.3.1 Day-to-day finances P8 2.3.2 Banks in Maastricht P8 2.3.3 Bank opening hours P8 2.4 Paying for things P8 2.4.1 Cash and bank cards P8 2.4.2 Cash dispenser (or Automated Teller Machines, ATMs) P8 2.4.3 Credit cards and cheques P9 2.4.4 Bank transfers P9 2.4.5 Chipper & Chipknip P9 2.4.6 UM Card P9

3 Legal matters P113.1 Student Law Agency P11

4 Religion P13

5 Sports P155.1 University Sports Organization P15 5.1.1 UM Sports P15 5.1.2 MUSST P15 5.1.3 Student Sports Associations P16 5.2 Sports Programmes P16 5.2.1 University Sports and membership UM SPORT P16 5.2.2 Private Sports Club P17 5.2.3 Sports Facilities P17 5.3 Competitive Sports P19

6 Lifestyles P216.1 Finding groups and clubs P216.2 A few suggestions P21

7 Student Services P277.1 Student Services Centre (SSC) P277.2 Visitors’ Centre and student registration P277.3 UM Career Services P287.4 Student Guidance P297.5 Student Housing - Kamerburo P317.6 Studium Generale P31

Student Handbook

2 3

Student Handbook

Table of contents

PRACTICAL GUIDE

1 TheNetherlandsandtheCityofMaastricht P11.1 The Netherlands P11.2 The History of South Limburg and Maastricht P31.3 Maastricht: an overview P4

2 Moneymatters P72.1 The euro P72.2 Changing money P72.3 Opening a Dutch bank account P7 2.3.1 Day-to-day finances P8 2.3.2 Banks in Maastricht P8 2.3.3 Bank opening hours P8 2.4 Paying for things P8 2.4.1 Cash and bank cards P8 2.4.2 Cash dispenser (or Automated Teller Machines, ATMs) P8 2.4.3 Credit cards and cheques P9 2.4.4 Bank transfers P9 2.4.5 Chipper & Chipknip P9 2.4.6 UM Card P9

3 Legalmatters P113.1 Student Law Agency P11

4 Religion P13

5 Sports P155.1 University Sports Organization P15 5.1.1 UM Sports P15 5.1.2 MUSST P15 5.1.3 Student Sports Associations P16 5.2 Sports Programmes P16 5.2.1 University Sports and membership UM SPORT P16 5.2.2 Private Sports Club P17 5.2.3 Sports Facilities P17 5.3 Competitive Sports P19

6 Lifestyles P216.1 Finding groups and clubs P216.2 A few suggestions P21

7 StudentServices P277.1 Student Services Centre (SSC) P277.2 Visitors’ Centre and student registration P277.3 UM Career Services P28

ColophonStudent Handbook - Practical Guide, Maastricht University

Published, edited Renée Rijnders – International Relations Office, and coordinated by: School of Business and Economics Ellen Nelissen – International Relations Office,


Photography: Photostock UM Communicatie- en Relatiebeheer Camiel de Hoen, Berg en Terblijt

Menno Roosjen, Maastricht

Lay-out and design by: Océ Business Services, MaastrichtPrinted by: Océ Business Services, Maastricht

Every effort has been made to provide information that is current and accurate.However the International Relations Office, School of Business and Economics, Maastricht University, can not be held responsible for any errors, omissions, and/or misinterpretations.

© All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilised in anyform or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or byany information storage or retrieval system, without prior written permission from thecopyright owner, or, as the cases may be, the publishers, beyond the exceptions providedby the Copyright Law.

Student Handbook

4 5

Student Handbook

7.4 Student Guidance P297.5 Student Housing - Kamerburo P317.6 Studium Generale P317.7 Sports P317.8 Tafelstraat - Broaden your view P32 7.9 Center for European Studies (CES) P32

8 Onthemove P358.1 The bicycle P35 8.1.1 Buying a second hand bicycle P35 8.1.2 Bicycle theft P358.2 Bicycle laws P368.3 Public Transportation P368.4 Driving your car P39

9 Healthcare P41 9.1 Family Doctor (huisarts) P41

9.2 Medication P429.3 Hospital P429.4 Dentist (tandarts) P439.5 Physiotherapist P439.6 Student Psychologists and Deans P439.7 Others P449.8 Confidential advisor P449.9 Studying with a disability, chronic illness or dyslexia P44

10 Drugs P4710.1 Drug policy P4710.2 Coffeeshops P47 10.3 Smoking ban P47

11 SocialEventsandImportantDates P4911.1 Carnaval P4911.2 The Queen’s Birthday - 30 April P4911.3 Dutch Memorial Day - 4 May P4911.4 Liberation Day - 5 May P4911.5 Preuvenemint P5011.6 Sinterklaas - 5 December P5011.7 Elfstedentocht P5011.8 Oktoberfest (Munich, Germany) P5011.9 Other events P50

12 WorkingintheNetherlands P5312.1 Who can work? P5312.2 Work Permits P5312.3 BSN P5612.4 Finding a Job P5612.5 Contact Information P56

13 StudentLife P5713.1 Relaxing P5713.2 Bars P5813.3 Restaurants P6113.4 Dance Till Dawn P6313.5 Anything else? P6313.6 Cinemas P6513.7 Theatre P6513.8 Museums P67

14 Shopping P6914.1 Supermarkets P6914.2 Ingredients P7014.3 Market day P70 14.4 Bookstores P71 14.4.1 Selexyz dominicanen P71 14.4.2 Books 4 Life P71 14.4.3 www.Eduboox.nl P7214.5 Department stores P7314.6 Shopping Centres P7414.7 Voltage Transformer P74

15 Communication P7515.1 Dutch Language P7515.2 Phones P7615.3 Pay phones P7615.4 Fax P7615.5 E-mail P7715.6 Post packages P7715.7 Important phone numbers P79

APPENDIX1 OfficialInstitutions P81

APPENDIX2 InformationSources P82

APPENDIX3SocialCalendar2009-2010 P83

Notes P86

MapofTheNetherlands Insidefrontcover

MapofMaastricht Insidebackcover

A = Academic Guide P = Practical Guide


8 9


Welcome to Maastricht

Dear student,

Welcome to the School of Business and Economics (SBE) of Maastricht University. We have developed a very strong international dimension in the past decade. Currently, we host around 500 exchange students annually and the share of international students in our regular teaching programmes is over 40%, spread over 66 different nationalities.

As an international educational institution we are keen on meeting international quality standards. In 2002 our school was accredited by the American Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). In May 2005 the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD) awarded us the EQUIS accreditation, which was re-awarded in 2008 for a period of five years. Last but not least: in April 2007 the International Accreditation Advisory Board of the Association of MBA’s (AMBA) approved the MBA programmes of Universiteit Maastricht Business School (part of SBE) for AMBA accreditation.

This means that the School of Business and Economics/Universiteit Maastricht Business School sports the so-called Triple Crown accreditation, which is awarded to only 1% of the business schools worldwide, placing SBE/Universiteit Maastricht Business School amongst a very select group of institutions. We hope that this will convince you that we are well prepared for an increasing number of international students.

The city of Maastricht is helping us to make your stay pleasant and agreeable, as well as challenging and filled with the acquisition of knowledge. Maastricht has played a crucial role in the further integration of the European Union. Moreover, it is an attractive location for many public and private organisations.

Having a successful and enjoyable time at a university in a foreign country requires knowledge of practical day-to-day issues, ranging from information regarding examinations to information on local events like the famous Maastricht Carnaval. Therefore, we are pleased to offer you this Student Handbook as a practical guide for studying and living in Maastricht. Foreign exchange students have used the guide in the past but the guide is now also available for all students in the regular educational programmes.

The handbook is deliberately not restricted to school matters. Studying abroad is not only aimed at formal education. Equally important is meeting fellow students from other countries and experiencing what it is like to live in a foreign country. Therefore, I sincerely hope and expect that your time here in Maastricht will be a successful and pleasant experience, both professionally and personally.

Professor Dr Jos Lemmink Dean School of Business and Economics


10 A1

SBE Academic Guide • Student Handbook

Academic Calendar 2009-2010

The academic year 2009/2010 is divided in four blocks of eight weeks and two blocks of two weeks. After each block the students have to take an examination.

Block 1: August 31st - October 23rd, 2009 Block 2: October 26th - December 18th, 2009Block 3: January 11th - January 22nd, 2010Block 4: February 1st - April 1st, 2010Block 5: April 12th - June 4th, 2010Block 6: June 14th - June 25th, 2010

Re-examinationsBlock Period I: January 4th - January 8th, 2010Block Period II: April 6th - April 9th, 2010Block Period IV: June 7th - June 11th, 2010Block Period V: July 5th - July 9th, 2010

HolidaysChristmas: December 25-26New Year: January 1 Carnival: February 15-19 Good Friday: April 2Easter: April 5Queen’s Birthday: April 30Liberation Day: May 5Ascension: May 13-14Whit Monday: May 24

Student Handbook • Academic Guide SBE

A2 A3


July6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2

Re-sits 4 Holidays Holidays Holidays

Augustus3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Holidays Holidays HolidaysFaculty

introduction

BLoCk PERIoD 1 September

31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

Education 1 Education 2 Education 3 Education 4

October28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Education 5 Education 6 Education 7 Exams

BLoCk PERIoD 2 November26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22


December23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Education 5 Education 6 Education 7 Exams

January21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

Christmas New Year Exams Block period 3

BLoCk PERIoD 3January18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Block period 3No generally

scheduled activities

BLoCk PERIoD 4February

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Education 1 Education 2 Carnival Education 3

March 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28


April29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Exams Easter Exams

BLoCk PERIoD 5April May

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Education 1 Education 2 Education 3 Educ. 4 Educ. 4

May June10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6

Education 5 Ascension Education 6 Education 7 Exams

BLoCk PERIoD 6June July

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4

Exams Block period 6 Block period 6No generally

scheduled activities

July5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Exams


A4 A5


1 Maastricht University

A warm welcome to Maastricht University. Maastricht University is the youngest university in the Netherlands (founded in 1976) and currently has about 13,100 students and 3,500 employees. The university has the following Faculties and Schools: Arts and Social Sciences; Maastricht University School of Business and Economics (SBE); Health, Medicine and Life sciences; Law; Psychology and Neuroscience; School of Health Professions Education; Universiteit Maastricht Business School; Maastricht Graduate School of Governance; Department of Knowledge Engineering; International Centre of Integrated Assessment & Sustainable Development; Humanities and Sciences and the University College Maastricht. In 2007, the School of Business and Economics was ranked number one in Choice/Keuzegids Hoger Onderwijs, the Netherlands guide to higher education. The educational programme offered at Maastricht University has two unique features:

1) This university was the first Dutch institution to adopt a problem-based learning approach to teaching in all of its educational programmes.

Maastricht University was founded initially because there was a growing need for an additional medical faculty in the Netherlands. However, the government was only going to support this new university under the condition that it would add something new to academic education itself. Maastricht University (or State University of Limburg as it was first called) decided to implement a different educational system, which was already in use in Canada: Problem Based Learning (PBL). This method has an interdisciplinary character, which means that the programme is not based on separate subjects but on integrated theoretical and practical problems. These problems are arranged around themes and studied in blocks. By working on problems and cases both in groups as well as individually, you discover those areas where your knowledge is lacking. Specialists, staff, and teaching material specially developed for the system, are at your disposal. You must, however, make an effort yourself: the Maastricht system is ‘student-centred’ rather than ‘teacher-centred’.

2) All educational programmes have a strong international perspective. Maastricht University has developed a strong international orientation in most of its education programmes. The development of the European Common Market, the changing relations between Western Europe and Central and Eastern Europe, the increasing interdependence between East and West and North and South, and the development of technology and communication have all contributed to the gradual transition of the world into ‘one global society’. Today’s students, the professionals of tomorrow, must therefore be prepared to function in a highly internationalised environment. They not only need a basic understanding of international developments in their field of study, but also an understanding of social and cultural differences. They must learn to speak one or two foreign languages and must gain some international experience during their university studies. Its location at the crossroads of the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and close to Luxembourg and France, offers Maastricht University an excellent opportunity to integrate this international dimension into its educational programme.

These two characteristics attract a lot of students; especially the latter makes Maastricht University a very interesting study environment for you!


A6 A7


2 Student Handbook

The student handbook is provided as hardcopy. It contains an extensive ‘practical guide’ offering you a lot of information on the basics of life in the Netherlands in general, and in Maastricht in particular. Additionally, the student handbook offers you an ‘academic guide’ as well, containing the basics on education and exams.

This handbook, though especially edited for new bachelor students, will also be handed out to master students. Information in the academic part of the handbook might not be applicable for master students. The practical part of the handbook, however, contains a lot of information that is interesting for both groups of students. On the schools website information about the specific programmes can be found. Other useful information is published on eleUM (for more information see chapter 4). Any questions you might have can be submitted on Surfyourself (SYS) which is also accessible via eleUM.


A8 A9


3 Certificate of enrolment and UM smartcard

As soon as you are registered at the University you will receive your Maastricht University smartcard (UM card) together with a certificate of enrolment. The UM card is only valid in combination with this certificate of enrolment.

You need your UM card + certificate of enrolment:• to identify yourself during exams;• to obtain your residence permit from the IND (Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst).

You need your UM card:• to enter the University Library; • to borrow books at the University Library;• to make copies and print outs at the University Library and the faculty building• to pay at the Mensa, the coffee corner and at the copyshop (Océ)

At the University Library you can also obtain a card for the Public Library, which can only be used in the scientific department of the Public Library. So as to obtain a card for the Public Library you have to show your UM card and your certificate of enrolment. (for more information about the University Library see chapter 9.1).

Have you lost your UM card?You can apply for a new UM card at the Service Desk ‘Facilitaire Dienst’, (located at the Minderbroedersberg 4-6 and UNS40 in Randwijck), or fill out the form at: http://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/web/servicecentra/FD/ProductenDienstenFacilitaireDienst/UMcard1.htm

Bring the form and € 11.00 (correct change) to the Service Desk ‘Facilitaire Dienst’. You do not need a new passport photo.

Have you lost your certificate of enrolment?Please visit or call the Student Service Centre in case you have lost your certificate of enrolment (for more information about the Student service Centre see the practical guide). They will need your name, address and ID number, so they can make you a new certificate of enrolment (cost: € 2.50).

Do you have problems with your UM card?Please report your problem to the service desk ‘Facilitaire Dienst’ (ground floor) of the Minderbroedersberg 4-6 or send an e-mail to [email protected]; you may also call: +31 (0)43 388 2002.

Furthermore, information can also be found on the UM card site:http://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/web/servicecentra/FD/ProductenDienstenFacilitaireDienst/UMcard1.htm


A10 A11


4 eleUM

eleUM, Maastricht University’s electronic learning environment, offers a collection of information and tools for students as well as for teaching and support staff. The information offered depends on the role of the person logging on. eleUM is available from all computers at Maastricht University, via the Internet: http://eleum. unimaas.nl

The following is available in eleUM:• the courses you attend;• education and examination schedules;• examination results;• announcements from the school (e.g. from your tutor or coordinator);• submission of your assignments;• all necessary materials regarding your courses (for example literature, cases, data,

sheets and old exams);• addresses of your tutors or coordinators;• entrance in a Community, especially designed for your tutorial group. You are able to

work on tasks and learning goals, cases you have to make with your group and you can discuss or mail with your group members.

• access to your personal disk space on the network (200 MB) via the “content” tab;• Surfyourself (SYS), the Information and Service Site of the School is also accessible via

eleUM; you can submit any question, the answer to which you will receive within two working days (for more information on SYS see chapter 7.2);

• registration for courses and exams (please check the instructions on eleUM);• your university e-mail account;• information on Student Advising, International Relations Office, Student Council, etc.

In order to make the best possible use of eleUM, it is important for students to attain a fast Internet connection. Adequate Internet facilities will allow students to fully benefit from the advantages of eleUM outside the School of Business and Economics too.

For more information and details concerning external access to the network of Maastricht University, please refer to the ICTS service desk website: http://www.icts.maastrichtuniversity.nl


A12 A13


5 A few basics on Education

5.1 Daylight saving time

During summer time in the Netherlands, and in several other countries, daylight saving time has been installed. This means for 2009 that on March 29th the clock has been put one hour forwards; daylight saving time ends October 25th when the clock will be put one hour backwards again. In 2010 daylight saving time will start on March 28th and end on October 31st.

5.2 Registration for education

You should register for education and/or written exams online during the registration periods (please check eleUM for registration instructions).• When you register for a course, you are automatically registered for the first chance

exam of that course as well. • Students can register for a maximum of two courses per block period and one training

per skills period, according to the exam requirements of the program in question.

Registration deadlines for education (registration for education includes automatically the 1st chance of the exam) for:Block period 1 last day of JuneBlock period 2 last day of the second week of education Block period 1Block period 3 last day of the second week of education Block period 2Block period 4 last day of the second week of education Block period 3Block period 5 last day of the second week of education Block period 4Block period 6 last day of the second week of education Block period 5

It is important that you do not miss the registration deadline for courses, skills or exams, because there may be no more places available after the deadline. If there are still places available, you can register up until the first day of the block period by visiting the Information Desk, but you will be charged € 35 for administration costs.

General registration information for first year bachelor studentsAs a first-year student, you are automatically registered for the first two block periods. You therefore start your registration from block period 3 onwards.

General registration information for Master studentsAs a master student, you are automatically registered for the compulsory courses in your first block period at the school. However, when a student’s program includes a specific track, specialization or elective, please inform the Education Office via SurfYourSelf. Master students have to register for courses themselves from block period 2 onwards.

Additionally, if you are a repeat student, meaning you want to follow a specific course for the second time, you must always register for these courses, including those in block periods 1 and 2. Registration means you must attend all tutorials. However, if you have already passed your tutorial participation, you can decide to register for the exams only,


A14 A15


but please check the course information what consequences this might have on your final grade (some courses do not include previous year’s grades for assignments, papers, projects etc.).

For more information see eleUM

5.3 Education Schedules

The schedules and group listings are published online about two weeks before the beginning of a period.

Educational activities take place from Monday to Thursday from 8.30 hrs to 21.00 hrs and on Fridays from 8.30 till 18.00. However, it is possible to indicate that you are not available for education after 18.00 via Web Data collection. If you indicate that you are not available for evening education, you will never be scheduled after 18.00. Via Web Data Collection, it is also possible to indicate specific scheduling preferences. The scheduler’s office will try to take these preferences into account.

Changing tutorial groups after publication of the timetables is not allowed unless a double study program interferes with your classes at SBE. Requests for scheduling preferences because of two studies, including the evidence required, can be handed in directly at the SBE Information Desk, at the latest on the first day of the block period. You should indicate clearly that your request is due to a double study program (or language courses), which hours you prefer, and for which courses you need to change tutorials groups. It is, however, possible that the exams for two studies -or graduate options- are held at the same time. In such case, no special arrangements will be made.

5.4 Study materials Study materials can be bought at:

FAME BookstoreTongersestraat [email protected]

Selexyz DominicanenDominikanerkerkstraat 16211 cz maastrichtTelephone: +31 (0)43 321 08 25

Please note: membership of FAME offers you, among other things, a reduction on the prices of study books at the FAME Bookstore.

5.5 Attendance and participation Within the Problem Based Learning system attendance and participation in tutorial groups are considered to be essential for the learning process. This is why your attendance is obliged and why you are expected to participate actively. Both your attendance and your participation are part of the requirements in order to pass the course (for more information see chapter 6.5).

The introduction of each block book provides you with the exact requirements for the specific course: the number of tutorial groups you have to attend, your required grade for participation, as well as the composition of your final grade, etc. Read this carefully!


A16 A17


6 A few basics on Exams

6.1 Daylight saving time

During summer time in the Netherlands, and in several other countries, daylight saving time has been installed. This means for 2009 that on March 29th the clock has been put one hour forwards; daylight saving time ends October 25th when the clock will be put one hour backwards again. In 2010 daylight saving time will start on March 28th and end on October 31st.

6.2 Registration for exams

In accordance with the examination rules for 2009/2010 all students who are scheduled for a block are also registered for the 1st corresponding exam, i.e. the first opportunity in the current academic year. In all other cases students are obliged to register themselves for exams they want to take online. Some examples: • A student did not pass the first exam; • A student has attended the tutorial groups previously and only wants to take the

exam; • A student was scheduled for education but did not participate in the corresponding

exam and therefore has received a zero grade; • A student did register him/herself for the first attempt but did not take the exam and

therefore has received a zero grade;

Students can only register for written exams by computer during the registration periods online. This allows students to register at any location where the Internet is available. However, please remember that the deadlines are always stated according to the time in the Netherlands.

The deadlines for registration for exams in the academic year 2009/2010 can be found in the table below.

Registration for exams (other than the first chance exam) for:Exam period 1 In week 4 of block period 1Exam period 2 (+ resit exam period 1) In week 4 of block period 2Exam period 3 In week 4 of block period 2Exam period 4 (+ resit exam period 3) In week 4 of block period 3Exam period 5 (+ resit exam period 4) In week 4 of block period 4Exam period 6 (= resit exam period 5) From Tuesday until Thursday in the week before

exam period

6.3 Exam schedules

Exam schedules are published on eleUM. Please note: changes in the schedule will be mentioned in the announcements on eleUM.

6.3.1 Possible times for examsNormally exams are scheduled on Monday-Friday between 9.00 and 16.00 hrs. In special


A18 A19


occasions it might occur that an exam is scheduled in the evening – at the latest until 21.00 hrs.

6.4 Method of examination

The method of examination differs per course. Information regarding the method of examination can be found in the block book of each course specifically, and on eleUM. During many courses students are often required to write papers and/or give presentations as well, the grades of which will contribute to the final grade for the course.

6.5 Exam requirements

Every course has its own requirements that students need to fulfil so as to pass the course. These requirements are mentioned in the block book and on eleUM. An example of one of the block books:• Presentation(s) 25%• Participation 25%• Final Exam 50%

The requirement of each first-year course includes a block assignment. Exemption from the block assignment is obtained after attendance and participation in the tutorial group meetings is graded satisfactory.

6.6 Exam locations

Your exam will take place in large (sports) halls. The locations are:• De Heeg, Roserije 500; bus 1 or 6;• De Geusselt, Olympiaweg 81; bus 7;• MECC, Forum 100; bus 1, 4, 5, 53, or 57 • Meerssen, Molenveldweg 18 bus 5

For more information about the buses, see www.9292ov.nl.

6.7 Examination rules

All the requirements and regulations with regard to the exams are published on eleUM. Please read this carefully.

Please consider the following important information:• You have to be at the exam on time. If you are even 1 minute late, you will not be

allowed to take the examination;• It is not allowed to bring any food or beverage (except water) into the examination

room;• It is not allowed to have GSM/Mobile phones, Ipods or any other electronic devices

in possession during an exam. Mobile phones and any other communication devices should be switched off and placed in a bag stored next to or under the table;

• For examinations in which the use of a calculator is allowed, only non-programmable calculators may be used. If a non-approved type of calculator is found, the supervisor

is entitled to take possession of the examination form and to deny any further continuation of the examination;

• Sanctions on fraud and plagiarism are imposed by the Board of Examiners; for more information please refer to the study guide.

Note: other guidelines may vary for each examination.

6.8 Exam training

Group trainings on different subjects are offered by EFM-Academy, the student organisation of the school for first year students. For details on their programme, please check their website: www.efmacademy.nl. Some students offer private tutorials to fellow students. For detailed information please refer to the Student Advisors via Surfyourself.

6.9 Grading system

The official Dutch grading scale as applied by Maastricht University is to be interpreted as follows:• 0 = unjustified absence • Grading is on a scale from 1 to 10• 1 to 5.4 constitutes a FAIL grade• 5.5 to 10 constitutes a PASS grade; whereby - 6 = sufficient - 7 = satisfactory - 8 = good - 9 = very good - 10 = excellent

A one year full-time study load amounts to 60 ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) per academic year.

The block book mentions what different parts have to be fulfilled to pass the course; you will be graded for these parts. If you fulfilled all the requirements of the course then you will receive 6.5 ECTS credits (or 4 ECTS credits for a skill).

6.10 Study abroad average grade

Either in your 5th or 6th semester at the School of Business and Economics you will study abroad for one semester in order to fulfill your study abroad requirement. An academic ranking will be made, which is based on the average grade of the first-sit first-year course grade (your lowest grade of the first-year will into be taken into consideration). Please keep this in mind when preparing for your exams during your first year! The student ranked the highest will have the first choice when deciding where to study abroad. Since for each university places are limited, the higher your average grade, the higher your chances to get accepted at the university of your preference. For more information the study abroad rules and requirements, please visit eleUM and the International Relations Office.


A20 A21


6.11 Binding Study Advice

The school applies the requirements of the Binding Study Advice (BSA) to first-year bachelor students. The BSA requires first-year bachelor students to obtain at least 34 ECTS (of which one course has to be a Quantitative Methods course) during their first year of study, so as to remain in the study programme. Additionally, the BSA requires first-year bachelor students to complete their first year of study, which means completing all the first year courses (60 ECTS), within the period of two years. For extensive information on the specific requirements of the Binding Study Advice, please check on eleUM.

Personal circumstancesWhen personal circumstances, like illness or other problems disrupting your study, occur during your study, inform the academic advisor as quickly as possible. Conversations with the academic advisor are held strictly confidential. For detailed information on the open office hours of the student advisors please see chapter 8 and/or check on eleUM.

7 Faculty related information

7.1 eleUM

eleUM is accessible via http://eleum.unimaas.nl. Via this portal you can find all the relevant information on schedules, regulations, registration deadlines, assignments, exam results, announcements from the school or the tutor of your tutorial group, etcetera. (for more information on eleUM see chapter 4).

7.2 SurfYourSelf, the Information & Service Site

Surfyourself, the Information & Service Site, is an advanced information system in which you can surf and search for answers to all your questions and/or requests concerning the organization of educational activities and examinations. Surfyourself is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week. If the answer to your question is not available in the system, you can submit your question immediately. All your questions will be answered within two working days by the appropriate person.

SurfYourSelf is accessible via http://eleum.unimaas.nl or www.surfyourself.nl.

7.3 Information Desk

For all other transactions and study-related questions, making appointments, handing in or collecting various types of forms, please consult the Information Desk at the entrance of Tongersestraat 53. ServicesThe information desk staff can:• Provide advice• Arrange an appointment for you with: - Student Advising - International Relations Office - Student Recruitment and Communications Office Furthermore at the Information Desk you can:• Hand in or collect study materials such as papers, block assignments, etc.• Ask for a print of official documents such as transcripts of your home university,

student exchange contracts, request for approval files, list of grades, diplomas, etc.• Get a copy of various brochures and flyers containing information on the programmes

offered at SBE.• Get a statement of registration/graduation. Generally, the staff at the Information Desk will be able to answer your question or handle your request. If not, they will refer you to the right office/person. Opening hours: Monday-Friday 09:00hrs – 16:00hrs.Telephone: +31 (0)43 388 3768


A22 A23


At the Information Desk a member of the International Relations Office is available every day from 10.00-11.30hrs and a member of the Board of Examiners is available every Thursday from 14.00-16.00hrs A list of dates on which the Information Desk is closed can be found on eleUM.

7.4 observant

Information concerning educational activities such as block openings, lectures, etcetera, or concerning the examinations, such as (change of) time and location will be published in the ‘Observant’, the weekly magazine of the Maastricht University. This information can be found in the ‘Mededelingen’ column (Announcements) in both English and Dutch, section ‘Economische Wetenschappen en Bedrijfskunde’. You are expected to consult this column regularly. The Observant appears weekly and is available in the school’s entrance hall and in the University Library.

7.5 My UM Portal

My UM Portal is the university’s information system for the school’s student administration. The school uses My UM Portal for the appropriate administration of courses, examinations and results.

As a student, you will have to use My UM Portal in the following 3 situations:• If you want to register for a course, check your registration or if you want to drop a

course you have to do this via My Um Portal. Please take into consideration that the deadlines always apply according to the time in The Netherlands!

• If you are registered for the education, you will be registered for the 1st sit of an exam. In all other cases, you are NOT automatically registered for the exams. You will have to do this yourself via My Um Portal.

• Furthermore, My Um Portal contains a module allowing you to view the list of your exam registrations and results whenever you wish. A detailed description of the system and instructions concerning its use can be found in the user manual, which is available through the help-function of eleUM. If you have a problem with your password, for example if you forget your password or if it has unintentionally become known by a third person, you have to go the ACO helpdesk, situated at Tongersestraat 53 (3rd floor, room B3.18) or you can mention your problem via Surfyourself.

7.6 E-mail account

The school will provide you with your own university e-mail account as soon as you are registered. You are expected to check your university e-mail account regularly, as the school will inform you on several important subjects via your personal e-mail account. You can check your e-mail via eleUM, or via http://webmail.maastrichtuniversity.nl.


A24 A25


8 Student Advisors of the Maastricht University School of Business and Economics

The school is very committed to the coaching and advising of its students. The student advisor is the first person to contact with respect to study and student related questions and/or problems. He or she can advice you, or, if necessary refer you to other specialists within and/ or outside the school.

Regardless of the problem or question you run into, like problems with the BSA, illness, or other personal circumstances, do not hesitate and contact the student advisors. The SBE has 5 student advisors:Mr. W. Bogaert, Mr. R. Pans, Mrs. D. Rietdijk, Mrs. J. Sautter, Mrs. P. Veenings.

You can contact one of them from Monday until Thursday:• Surfyourself • Telephone: +31 (0)43 388 3805 From 09:00 until 10:30 hrs• Open office hours: Rooms F2.07-F2.15 From 10:30 until 11:30 hrs• Personal appointment: can be made by telephone: +31 (0)43 388 3805 More information on the student advisors can be found on eleUM. Please note that all correspondence to, and conversations with, the student advisors are held strictly confidential.


A26 A27


9 Student Facilities

9.1 University Library

Maastricht University has two university libraries (UL’s) , the UL Randwyck and the UL Inner City. All resources in both locations and in the electronic library are available to all UM students. The Inner City Library contains the hardcopy collections for the School of Business and Economics students. In addition to an extensive media collection (both printed and electronic), these library locations provide over 1700 spacious and ergonomic study places, of which approximately 800 are equipped with the latest computer hardware. Both locations also offer a large number of laptop plug-ins, power sockets as well as wireless internet access.The implemented server based computer concept makes it possible for students to access various applications via the network not only from anywhere within the UL, but also from any location outside the UL via the Student Desktop Anywhere service. For more information, please visit http://anywhere.ub.unimaas.nl. Opening hours Library:• Monday until Thursday: 08:30 - 22:00 hrs (from 17:00 hrs; no loan facilities)• Friday: 08:30 - 18:00 hrs (from 17:00 hrs; no loan facilities)• Saturday: 11:00 - 18:00 hrs (from 14:00 hrs; no loan facilities)• Sunday: 11:00 - 18:00 hrs (no loan facilities) Besides these standard opening hours there are many weekends during the academic year in which the closing times are extended to 22:00. Saturdays and sundays preceeding the main exam weeks the library is available between 9:00 and 24:00. For precise opening hours see the notice boards or visit http://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/library

9.2 Computer access

The School of Business and Economics maintains two computer rooms (called Students Microcomputer Room or SMR) at Tongersestraat 53: rooms E0.01 and E0.03. In these computer rooms 50 personal computers are available. These computers are meant for training and skills purposes or short use only (less than 2 hours). For e-mail and eleUM, four additional computers are available in zone F0. Also the 24 computers near the main entrance of Tongersestraat 53 can be used.

The following rules apply to the computer rooms:• SMR is accessible only for students registered at the SBE;• smoking, eating, drinking, pc-chatting and playing of games is not allowed in the SMR,

under a one week disablement penalty of your account;• it is prohibited to move hardware;• please notify Acohelp when a computer, or part of it, is broken;• print outs have to be paid with your UM Card. • clean up your desk;• damage and costs resulting from irresponsible and forbidden use of computers as well

as rooms will have to be paid by the perpetrator;• Acohelp has the final word in unforeseen circumstances;• if you leave your computer for 10 minutes or more you will be logged off automatically.


A28 A29


The SMR rooms offer printing facilities as well. Prints can be collected in zone F0 or near the main entrance of the building. Please note that you have to pay for every page you print. Prints can be obtained only with your Student Identity card (UM card). A black print costs € 0,05 each. Please note that when you use your UM card to print you should press “STOP” at the machine when you are done printing; otherwise you will lose all the money loaded on your UM card.

The SMR rooms use an active video camera system. The SMR computers may only be used for educational purposes. Opening hours of the SMR rooms are Monday through Friday from 09:00 until 17:00 hrs, unless reserved. The SMR rooms are closed on holidays.

9.3 Mensa Academica Maastricht (MAM)

The Mensa offers a broad variety of dishes at student-friendly prices. In addition to all kinds of snacks, salads, drinks and cold meals one can choose between two hot dishes and a vegetarian dish everyday. Except on Fridays, there is also the possibility to have a hot meal in the evening. At the Mensa you can pay with your UM card. Paying in cash or Chipknip (for more information see chapter 2.4.5 of the practical guide) will be charged with an additional fee of 25%.

The Mensa opening hours are:• Monday until Thursday: 11:00 - 14:00 hrs and 16:30 - 19:00 hrs• Friday: 11:00 - 14:00 hrs;• Hot dishes are served from: 11:30 - 14:00 hrs and 16:30 - 19:00 hrs (not on Fridays);• The coffee corner is open daily: 08:00 - 19:00 hrs, Friday 08:15 - 16:00 hrs.

9.4 ATM (Automatic Teller Machine) and Chipknip

After entering the school building through the main gate, on your left hand, in the hallway to the Lecture hall you will find an ATM. Dispensers will accept almost every kind of card nowadays. You must find a match between the payment symbols on the dispenser and on your card. If you have a bank card of a Dutch bank, you can withdraw money from all ATMs in the Netherlands (so not only from the dispensers of your bank). Please note that you can only get money at a dispenser from another bank than your own once a day.

9.5 Copy shop and copying

As mentioned before, copying at the University and at the University Library can only be done with your UM card. If you do not have a UM card yet, you cannot print or make copies. You can go to The DocShop for special copying services such as copying onto A3 format, making colour prints, binding theses and reports etc. You can also buy your stationary (pens, notepads, markers, ordners) at The DocShop.

Randwijck UNS 40-50 on the bridge between the mensa and the libraryPhone: +31 43 388 11 48Opening hours: Monday - Friday 8:30h - 17:00 hrs E-mail: [email protected]

University Library Grote Looiersstraat 17 Phone: +31 43 388 47 94Opening hours: Monday - Friday 8:30h - 18:00 hrs E-mail: [email protected]

SBE/ UMBS Tongersestraat 53Phone: +31 43 388 37 07Opening hours: Monday - Friday 8:30h - 17:00 hrs E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.thedocshop.eu

At the copy shop you can only pay by UM card or Dutch bank card. Please note that when you use your UM card to copy, you should press “STOP” at the machine when you are done copying; otherwise you will lose all the money loaded on your UM card.

You can go to The DocShop for special copying services such as copying onto A3 format, making colour prints, binding theses and reports etc. You can also buy your stationary (pens, notepads, markers, ordners) at The DocShop.

University Library Grote Looiersstraat 17 Phone: +31 43 388 47 94 Opening hours: Monday - Friday 8:30h - 18:00 hrs E-mail: [email protected]

FEBA/ UMBS Tongersestraat 53 Phone: +31 43 388 37 07 Opening hours: Monday - Friday 8:30h - 17:00 hrs E-mail: [email protected]

Website: ww.thedocshop.eu

http://www.ces.unimaas.nl


A30 A31


10 Study Associations and International Student Associations

10.1 FAME Cooperation Maastricht

At the beginning of your study at the SBE you can become a member of FAME, the cooperation between the different faculty associations. Via FAME you can get discounts on books, activities and parties; you can develop additional social and communication skills, develop team and organizational skills, and get in contact with companies.FAME consists of five specialized study associations that organize activities for different fields of study. After your subscription at FAME you benefit from the offerings of all five, which means you can participate in and even actively organize all or several of these activities. Your choice of participation or organization of activities will mainly depend on your field of study. You can find more information under: www.famecooperation.com

• EFM Academy is the study association that focuses on students at the beginning of their studies. For more information: www.efmacademy.nl

• FS FoCUS is the study association for students interested in accountancy, controlling & finance. For more information: www.fsfocus.nl

• 3MA is the study association for students interested in marketing, management and organization. For more information: www.3ma.nl

• Vectum is the study association that focuses on students studying Econometrics. For more information: www.vectum.nl

• IES Network is the study association that focuses on students studying IES or Infonomics. For more information: www.ies-net.org

What activities does FAME offer?The FAME associations offer a wide range of activities. On the social side there are parties, different foreign trips, and company drinks. Study related activities offered are extra tutorials, exam trainings, lectures and workshops. Furthermore FAME offers skills trainings, company visits, recruitment dinners and corporate drinks, congresses, and recruitment events such as: the Maastricht Business Days. As a member of FAME you will also receive considerable discounts on the study books that you buy at the “FAME Bookstore” in the school building and on all organized activities.

Becoming active member within FAMEDo you want to develop entrepreneurial and organizational skills? And also want to get more involved with our organization? Do you want to take the challenge of organizing diverse activities in a team for your fellow students? Then become an active member of one of the FAME associations. As an active member you can take actively part in organizing many activities from the very beginning to the perfect end for your fellow students. This is of course a lot of fun, but also a great learning experience for your further career!

Contact FAME CooperationIf you want to become a member or if you have questions about FAME memberships, please feel free to contact us. Visit our website (also for online subscription) www.famecooperation.com or talk with us at the EFM Academy info-stand during the INKOM and the Faculty Introduction Days. You can also visit us at our weekly drink every Tuesday in the Preuverij (Kakeberg 6) and see how we combine professionalism and fun!!


A32 A33


10.2 AIESEC

AIESEC is the world’s largest student-run organization, which offers management and development internships all over the world. Active in over 1700 universities across more than 107 countries and territories, our international platform enables young people to explore and develop their leadership potential for them to have a positive impact on society. An AIESEC experience includes being a part of a global learning environment, leadership opportunities and international internships. In partnership with business and higher education, AIESEC has over 60 years of experience in developing high-potential students into globally minded responsible leaders.

What does AIESEC offer you?• A unique international experience: - Exchange Program: internship all over the world for 3rd year and master students

from Maastricht University - Ambassadors Program: this program gives 1st and 2nd year students the chance to

go abroad for 6 to 8 weeks in the summer on the costs of AIESEC• Make a Move: student guidance during their orientation on the labor market• Over 3000 internships in more than 100 countries• Personal coaching and training• Help with formalities and preparation• Accommodation• Social activities in your host country• A huge international network

If you want to know more about AIESEC and its activities, please visit www.aiesec.nl/maastricht. For questions you can mail us at [email protected].

10.3 AEGEE-Maastricht

AEGEE-Maastricht is the local branch of a European student organization, called AEGEE. We are approximately 15.000 students from 240 cities all around Europe. We strive for a wider, and most important, deeper integration of European citizens by means of knowing and understanding the different cultures and streams of thought that exist around us.

What do we do in Maastricht?For our members we organize loads of fun activities, a weekly drink, parties and weekend trips. You might make friends in fraternities, sororities and year clubs or committees. In other words, the usual pattern you can expect from every student association. However, what distinguishes us from all the others is our network!

Europe is our backyard!In every European student town, members of AEGEE are organising all kinds of entertainment. We can visit conferences, exciting events, and parties all over Europe.

Maastricht in EuropeAEGEE-Maastricht contributes to European activities as well. Every year we organise a big European event in Maastricht, which can be a congress or for example an intensive ‘Find Europe’ event. In July we organize a Summer University. During two weeks filled with entertainment and relaxation, 30 European students improve their English language skills. This is your chance to really get to know some foreigners.

For more information you can reach AEGEE-Maastricht:Website: http://www.aegee-maastricht.orgEmail : [email protected]: +31 (0)43 388 5353


A34 A35


11 Presentation of your own views and ideas

11.1 Student Council

The Student Council is a consultative organ for all student members who have a representative function in one of the different committees within the school. These are the school council, where students meet with the school board to discuss important academic and non academic issues, and the program committee, which continuously monitors the content and quality of the academic programs at the University of Maastricht. During their meetings, the students come together to keep each other informed on recent developments, to discuss issues that will have an impact on students of the SBE, and to exchange information and experiences. These committees are there to represent you. Students have a say within the School of Business and Economics!So, if you have any problems with the school, ideas for improvements or general interest, contact the members of the committees. We are there for you! If you want to know more about one of these committees and the things they do, feel free to check our website which you can find on eleUM or send an email to [email protected].

P1

Practical Guide • Student Handbook

1 TheNetherlandsandtheCityofMaastricht

1.1 TheNetherlands

The Netherlands (Dutch: Nederland) is the European part of the Kingdom of the Nether-lands (Dutch: Koninkrijk der Nederlanden). The Netherlands is a parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarch, located in northwestern Europe. It borders the North Sea to the north and west, Belgium to the south, and Germany to the east.The Netherlands is often referred to by the name Holland, although this is incorrect as it refers to only a small part of the country. Holland was the economic power house during the time of the United Provinces (1581–1795). After the Napoleonic era, Holland became a mere province of the Kingdom and was split into North and South Holland in 1840. There are eleven other provinces in the Netherlands. The Netherlands is one of the most densely populated and geographically low-lying countries in the world (its name literally means “Low-lands”) and is famous for its dikes, windmills, wooden shoes (clogs), tulips, bicycles and perceived social tolerance. Its liberal policies are often mentioned abroad. The country is host to the International Court of Justice. Amsterdam is the official capital as stated by the constitution, but The Hague is the seat of government, the home of the monarch, and the location for most foreign embassies. The Netherlands ranked sixth on the 2008 UN Human Development Index, behind Norway, Iceland, Australia, Ireland, Canada. The English adjective and noun for relating to the Netherlands is “Dutch,” which is also the name of the language in the Netherlands.

PopulationThe Netherlands has a population of roughly 16.5 million, which is growing annually at 0.49 percent. More than 40 percent of the population lives in the two western prov-inces of North and South Holland. These provinces contain the three largest cities of the country: Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague. The population is ethnic Dutch. Much of the foreign population is made up of Germans (2.4%), Indonesians (2.4%; Indo-European, Indo-Dutch, Moluccan), Turks (2.2%), Surinamese (2.0%), Moroccans(1.9%), Indians (1.5%), Antilleans and Arubans (0.8%), and 6.0% other.

LanguageThe official language is Dutch, a Germanic language. Frisian is also spoken in the north-eastern province of Friesland. English, German, and French are commonly understood and spoken and are taught in the secondary schools. Flemish, a form of Dutch, is spoken in a region of Belgium called Flanders. For most people from South Limburg Dutch is their second language. The dialect Limburgs, an official regional language since 1997, is made up of widely varying dialects, which are not always understood outside their locality. However, all South Limburgers understand Dutch and many speak German, English and some French as well.

ReligionAbout 31 percent of the population is Roman Catholic. Most Catholics live in the southern Provinces of Brabant and Limburg. Another 21 percent are Protestant (mostly Dutch Reformed), 4.4 percent are Muslim. The royal family belongs to the Dutch Reformed Church. The Netherlands, like many European countries, is a secular society, in which the role of religion has diminished steadily for some time. There is a strong tradition of main-taining the separation of church and state.

Student Handbook • Practical Guide

P2 P3


DaylightsavingtimeDuring summer time in the Netherlands, and in seventy other countries, such as the European Union, Mexico, Chile or Namibia, daylight saving time has been installed.This means for 2009 that on 29 March 2009 the clock was put one hour forward; daylight saving time ends 25 October when the clock will be put one hour backwards again. In 2010 daylight saving time will start 28 March and end 31 October.

Sources: Wikipedia, Culture Grams, CIA World Fact Book

1.2 TheHistoryofSouthLimburgandMaastricht

The first inhabitants of what is now called “the Netherlands” were bands of hunter gatherers, who lived in Limburg (the most southern province of the Netherlands) some 250,000 years ago. During the Neolithic Age (5300 BC) farmers settled on the soils of Beek, Elsloo, Geleen and Sittard in the Western Mining District. In the first century BC the Romans conquered South Limburg, buildingTrajectumadMosam (Maastricht, the oldest city of the Netherlands) around 50 BC and Coriovallum (Heerlen). TrajectumadMosam means the crossing over the river Maas. The bridge of Maastricht (nowadays called St. Servaas-bridge) formed a vital link in the Roman communication route from Gaul (France) to Germany (built under Emperor Augustus 27 BC- 14 AD) and was therefore guarded by two camps on either side of the Maas. The main camp was situated in the area of the city centre. The smaller camp on the other side of the Maas developed into the area called Wyck.

With the rise of Christianity in the 4th century, Maastricht became a cathedral city. The first bishop, St Servaas, founded the first church on the site where the Onze Lieve Vrouwe-church is located today. You can still find his name in our city: St Servaas Bridge, St Servaas Basilica etc. After St Servaas, many other bishops ruled in Maastricht. In the beginning of the 8th century Maastricht not only had a religious and cultural function but was also an important centre of commerce. During those days the bridge in Maastricht was the last crossing point of the river before it flowed into the sea. This effectively made Maastricht an inland port. Around 1220 Maastricht obtained the privilege of township and was ruled by two lords, the Prince Bishop of Liège and the Duke of Brabant. Rivalry between the two led to the building of defensive walls around Maastricht.

During the Middle Ages Maastricht developed itself as an important centre. Two old Roman churches were enlarged and many new Gothic churches were built such as the St Jan (St John), the Dominikanen (named after the Dominican Friars, also known as Black Friars) and the Minderbroeders (named after the Friars Minor) church. It was a flourishing time that attracted many sculptors, wood carvers, painters and craftsmen working with gold, silver and ivory. The city reached its peak of prosperity in the early 16th century.

During the Eighty Years War with Spain, Maastricht played an important role. From that time on, the city was an important fortress with a strategic location. In 1576 Maastricht rose against the Spanish but the rebellion was brutally crushed. The city remained in Spanish hands until it was recaptured by Frederik Hendrik in 1632. His victory brought a certain degree of stability and introduced a new era of religious tolerance. Protestants and Catholics could now coexist in some sort of harmony.

St Jan Church was build next to the St Servaas Basilica at the Vrijthof.


P4 P5


After the Napoleonic Wars, the allies set to work to redraw the map of Europe. The solu-tion they came up with for the Netherlands was to build a new united state combining Belgium and (what was then known as) Holland, to form a strong buffer to the north of France. This union did not last long. In 1830 the Belgians rose against the monarch and government of the north and declared their independence. Geographically Maastricht should have become a part of Belgium, but the garrison under General Dibbets remained loyal to the house of Orange. In 1839, to the discontent of the Belgians, the province of Limburg was partitioned with Maastricht remaining in Dutch hands.

The early 19th century was a difficult period for Maastricht, once again trying to pick up the pieces after foreign occupation. The first signs of the industrial revolution appeared when Petrus Regout started his business career in pottery works, in which he made his fortune. Others followed his example and Maastricht became the Netherlands’ first industrial city, with flourishing ceramic works and paper mills.

In the twentieth century, South Limburg became increasingly international in appear-ance. South Limburg is located in an area known since 1976 as the Euregio Maas-Rijn or Meuse-Rhine Euregion. This region consists of the Dutch province of Limburg in which Maastricht is situated, the Belgian provinces of Limburg (Limbourg) and Liège (Luik), the Belgian Ostkantons (German-speaking regions) and the Aachen region of Germany. The Euregion is known for its natural beauty. Liège, the largest Belgian city in the Euregion, is a lively university town offering plenty of entertainment only half an hour’s drive from Maastricht.

In geological terms, South Limburg is the oldest part of the Netherlands. In a topographi-cal sense, South Limburg is quite separate from the rest of the country. The rolling hills contrast with the flatness of the rest of the country. The inhabitants of South Limburg today do not consider themselves Dutch, but prefer to identify with their region of birth, which is also reflected in their use of language, as described earlier.

1.3 Maastricht:anoverview

Maastricht gained international fame as the host of the European Summit in 1991,where the Treaty of Maastricht was adopted as the formal foundation of the European Union. Located in the southernmost tip of the Netherlands, this city has a reputation of being a little foreign even in its own country. Many tourists visit Maastricht to go shopping, taste its flamboyant atmosphere or to visit one of the 1660 monuments in Maastricht.

As mentioned earlier, Maastricht used to be an industry and trade city. Ceramics, paper and glass have dominated the economy of the city for decades and still do to some extent. Some famous company names in these sectors are Mosa, Sphinx, Sappi and ENCI. During the last decade Maastricht has become predominantly a science and service city. Nowa-days, the most important industries in Maastricht are the financial and business services industry (19.4%), trade/hotel and catering industry (19.4%) and the education/health care sector (31.4%). Some large companies situated in or near Maastricht are Vodafone, Apple, Daimler Chrysler and DSM/Sabic (large chemical concern.

Furthermore, the city has also developed strongly because of the presence of a University and a College of Higher Education. Although Maastricht is not a very big city (125,000 inhabitants), it is usually buzzing with people day and night, many of which are students. There are hundreds of shops, bars, cafés (Maastricht has the highest café density of the Netherlands: 1 café per 350 inhabitants versus 1 per 900 on average), restaurants, pubs, clubs, galleries, theatres etc., which you will read more about elsewhere in this handbook.

MaastrichtareabyareaFor a live picture of the different areas you can visit the web site www.maastricht360.nl. You need to have Flash video software on your computer to view this page, which you can download from the site. Once you have this installed on your computer make sure you visit the page, it is a real must-see.

VrijthofandMarktThe Vrijthof is the heart of Maastricht. Already in the 10th century this large square was the centre of a thriving St Servaas cult. Today the Vrijthof square is dominated by two impressive churches: the St Servaas basilica and the St Jan church. Whenever Maastricht has something special to celebrate, such as the Preuvenemint (see 10.5) or Carnaval, the Vrijthof is the place to be. The Markt (market), the other square in the centre, is a more down-to-earth version of the Vrijthof, centered around the Town Hall.On Wednesdays and Fridays the vegetable-sellers and other vendors erect their stalls around the Town Hall to sell their wares at slightly cheaper prices than in the shops.

StokstraatquarterThe Stokstraat quarter, or Stokstraatkwartier, is one of the most attractive and expensive shopping areas in Maastricht. It has many narrow streets, lovely restored houses and shops, attracting many tourists and day-trippers. The Romans built their settlement in the first century AD here in the Stokstraat quarter. Various Roman ruins, such as the baths and parts of a wall with towers, lie hidden below the surface; although in some places you can still tell where they must have been.

JekerquarterThis is the student part of Maastricht, sometimes jokingly called the Quartier Latin of Maastricht. In addition to Maastricht University, other educational institutions such as the Maastricht School of Drama and the Conservatory are located here as well. Between the many churches, monasteries, mills and historic buildings, glimpses can be caught of the Jeker, the narrow river which winds through this area all the way from Belgium.

CéramiqueCéramique is a relatively new neighbourhood in Wyck (across the St Servaas Bridge in the direction of the main railway station). Here you will find the Bonnefantenmuseum and the Public Library (www.centreceramique.nl).

MaastrichtandsurroundingsthroughouttheyearSouth Limburg is one of the favourite destinations of the Dutch holidaying in their own country, drawn here by its natural beauty. Cycling and walking in the hills with their unique flora and fauna are popular pastimes. Almost every town organises its own events throughout the year. Chapter10 will provide you with a full calendar of Social Events in Maastricht and surroundings.


P6 P7


Climate

Someone once peered up at the Dutch sky and glumly summarized it as follows:“Just look at that. It always looks as if it has just rained, is about to rain or is raining.”

Unfortunately this is rather true. Those who are already suffering from culture shock will find that the dreary Dutch skies do not do much to uplift the spirit. On the contrary: they reflect it. The Netherlands has a sea-climate, meaning that the relatively constant temperature of the water moderates any seasonal changes the climate might try to induce on the temperature. The Netherlands depend on an Easterly wind (Siberia) for its good, cold, blue skied winters and a southerly wind (Spain) for a nice, dry, sunny summer.

But rest assured, these days do occur – and actually quite a few per season. One of the great things about the Dutch, however, is their attitude towards the sun. They love it! Once the sun breaks out in the summer, they take days off, leave the office early and spend lengthy lunch breaks outside – soaking up the sun. Gone are the traffic jams, the moody blues and life behind closed doors. Café terraces are well populated, street life is lively and gardens are filled with the blue smoke of barbecues.

2 Moneymatters

2.1 Theeuro

The Netherlands is one of the European Union member countries that changed its cur-rency to euro on 1 January 2002. Other countries that have converted to this currency are: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Kosovo, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Vatican City. Although the Vatican, Monaco and San Marino are not EU members, they have still adopted the euro due to currency unions with member states. Andorra, Mon-tenegro and Kosovo (also not part of the EU) have adopted the euro unilaterally.These countries have the same bank notes but slightly different looking coins. There are seven bank notes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euros, and eight coins: 1 and 2 Euros and 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 (euro) cents.

The coins have two faces: the common euro face showing the amount, and a national face. Although the coins look different, they can be used in any of the countries that have introduced the euro.

€This is the symbol of the euro. The official abbreviation for the euro is EUR. For more information about the euro you can check http://europa.eu

2.2 Changingmoney

The exchange rate (wisselkoers) is fixed every day and will be posted wherever you change money. The rate does not vary from one bank to the next, although the charges for chang-ing money may differ. The most common place to change money is a bank (ABN-AMRO, VSB, ING or Rabobank), a post office, or a GWK exchange office. You will find GWK offices at railway stations, the airport and places where there are many tourists.

2.3 OpeningaDutchbankaccount

Apart from needing a Dutch account to get a bank card (see 2.4.1) there are other advan-tages of having a Dutch account.Providing you get a so-called World Pass, you will be able to withdraw money from any ATM machine in Europe (so not only in the Netherlands). This will be free in all the euro countries, whereas if you use your “normal” account you will probably have to pay each time you withdraw money from an ATM. You will be able to use your card plus PIN code (pinning) to pay in stores and supermarkets in the Netherlands (even in an increasing number of stores abroad). You will be able to automatically transfer your monthly rent. You will be able to “pin” the money for the residence permit (check 2.4.1 for “pinning”).


P8 P9


2.3.1 Day-to-dayfinancesTo manage your day-to-day finances, you will need a current account. You can open this account either at a commercial bank, where it is called a privé rekening or at the postoffice (to be found at all large post offices), where it is called a girorekening. An account at a commercial bank is functional the same day that you open it, but if the bank knows you will be staying for only a short time, for example if you are an exchange student, it might refuse you. The commercial banks are generally not eager to have temporary residents as customers because they often leave the country without closing their accounts. Current accounts pay no interest, but you are charged interest if you have an overdraft.

2.3.2 BanksinMaastricht

There are several banks in Maastricht: ABN-AMRO, Rabobank, VSB Bank, SNS Bank and ING. Most banks will ask for a residence permit or a burgerservicenumber (BSN), which you obviously will not have (at least not straight away). Actually, they are no longer sup-posed to ask for a BSN, but not all banks know this.

Opening an account if you are a foreign student can be a daunting process, and we strongly advise you to check with the International Relations Office prior to arrival, to find out what the most recent process entails.

If you open a bank account, you will be provided with a bank card plus PIN code. This card can be used at any time to withdraw cash from any ATM in the Netherlands. Check with the bank whether you can also use it for ATMs abroad.

2.3.3 Bankopeninghours

Opening hours of the banks differ from regular opening hours of shops and supermar-kets. Most banks are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Once you have opened an account please check with your personal bank branch for its opening hours.

2.4 Payingforthings

2.4.1 CashandbankcardsThere are basically six ways to pay for things: 1) in cash, 2) with a bank card, 3) with a credit card, 4) by cheque, 5) by having your bank make a transfer, 6) the Chipper and the Chip-knip. Paying in cash is common, although the use of bank cards (the Dutch words used in connection with bank cards are pin, pinpas, pinnen or chippen) is increasingly replacing cash payments. Shops have a link to the bank system, and the amount due is withdrawn immediately from your account. You or the clerk passes your card through a reader that looks like an oversized calculator; you type in your own secret four-digit personal identifi-cation number (PIN, or pin-code); the bank reports whether or not your balance will cover the amount; you confirm the amount by pressing ja (yes), and the transaction is complete.

2.4.2 Cashdispenser(orAutomatedTellerMachines,ATMs)You will find a geldautomaat or cash dispenser at every bank and post office, in railway stations and other public places where people are spending money (at the post office the sign reads giromaat). There is also one nearby the Lecture Hall in the School of Business

and Economics. Dispensers will accept almost every kind of card nowadays. You must find a match among the symbols on the dispenser and on your card. If you have a bankcard from a Dutch bank, you can withdraw money from any ATM in the Netherlands (so not only from the dispensers of your bank). Please note that you are allowed to pin at a cash dispenser from adifferentbankthanyourown only once per day.

2.4.3 CreditcardsandchequesPaying by credit card is less common in shops, especially smaller shops and supermarkets, mainly because the shops have to pay a percentage of each sale to the credit card com-pany. However, restaurants, hotels and department stores generally accept all major cards. There will usually be a notice board near the entrance that shows which credit cards are accepted. Personal cheques will not be accepted. If you bring Travellers Cheques with you it is advised to cash them in at a bank first, as paying with Travellers Cheques is not com-mon. The banks encourage people to use the pin system instead.Travellers Cheques are useful when you travel in Europe because you can write them out in any currency and cash them at any bank. Traveller’s cheques are insured, although with a certain amount of personal risk.

2.4.4 BanktransfersBills are generally paid by bank transfer. When bills are sent, they usually have a so-called acceptgirokaart attached to them: a yellow slip containing the amount payable, the name and bank details of the beneficiary, and other data. You fill out your own account number, sign your name, and send it to your own bank, which deducts the money from your ac-count. Your bank will also provide you with forms if you need to pay bills that do not have an acceptgirokaart attached. If it is a regular bank, these are called overschrijvings- formulieren. On the form you fill in the amount payable, the account number, the name and place of residence of the beneficiary, you indicate what the payment is for (where the form says betreft, betalingskenmerk, or mededelingen) and you place your signature where it says handtekening.

2.4.5 Chipper&ChipknipIn order to overcome shop owners objections against paying amounts smaller than € 10 with your bank card, the Chipper (issued by the Postbank) or Chipknip (issued by the other banks) was introduced in the Netherlands. This is either a separate card or your regular bankcard with a chip added to it, and can be loaded (laden) with money. After being loaded the Chipknip is effectively turned into an electronic wallet, holding an amount in electronic money that you can then spend at stores, on the bus, at the train station, in vending machines and at an ever increasing number of places. The Chipknip can be loaded at the bank (there is usually a machine next to the ATM that says Chipknip). Any amount between € 5 and € 500 can be loaded onto the card. This, however, also depends on the amount of money that is in your bank account. A disadvantage of this system is that it does not require a PIN code, a result of which is that anybody who finds your (lost) Chipper/Chipknip can make payments with it.

2.4.6UMCardOn top of being an identity card, your UM card should also be used to pay for printing and copying services at the UM Libraries and faculties, and to gain access to these UM Libraries. Although it is recommended to pay with your UM card at the University’s food facilities (DE Coffee corner and Mensa Restaurant), another possibility is to pay with cash.


P10 P11


Note that you pay 25% more when paying in cash. You cannot use the UM card to pay outside the university.

LoadingyourUMCardYou can load your UM Card at several loading points near the reception and the Mensa Restaurant of the School of Business and Economics in several ways. Instructions are writ-ten in Dutch and English, but quite simple. You can always ask for assistance, the MENSA staff will be happy to help.• By cash; make sure you only use Euro bank notes. • By bank card (pinpas). Make sure you have sufficient money on your bank account, as

you need to transfer money from the bank card onto your UM card before it can be used.

• By credit card.Once the UM card is loaded, you can make copies on the machines available to students or you can make printouts from your computer. If you make copies please make sure you follow the instructions on the copy machine very carefully!

YOU HAVE TO PUSH THE STOP BUTTON AND WAIT FOR THE BEEP BEFORE YOU CAN TAKE YOUR CARD OUT OF THE MACHINE, OTHERWISE YOU WILL LOSE ALL THE MONEY ON YOUR UM CARD.

3 Legalmatters

3.1 StudentLawAgency

The Student Law Agency is an organisation meant for students and run by students. If you need legal assistance, they can help you for free!

Student Law Agency MaastrichtBonnefantenstraat 2 Maastricht

Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursdaybetween 10:00 and 13:00 hrs Phone: +31(0)43-388 53 46e-mail: [email protected]


P12 P13


4 Religion

Although modern Dutch society is not very much concerned with religion and few Dutch people identify with an organised religion, you will see plenty of churches and other places of worship and you will have plenty of opportunities to practice your own religion if you wish.

Of the Dutch people who nowadays claim church affiliation, about half are Roman Catho-lic and half are Protestant. However, only about 20% of the population attends services regularly. The southern provinces of Brabant and Limburg are predominantly Catholic, whereas the other provinces are predominantly Protestant.

If you would like to have more information about where to go in Maastricht for religions of any kind, you can contact:

Tafelstraat13,EcumenicalStudentChaplaincyTafelstraat 13, 6211 JD Maastricht Phone: +31 (0)43-321 56 51 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.tafelstraat13.nlMore information see 7.8 (SSC)

The most frequently searched for addresses are:

RomanCatholicStudentChaplaincyRégis de la Haye - Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk, Maastricht.Tel. +31 (0)43-356 13 30 E-mail: [email protected]

MosqueTurksKultureelCentrumTEVHID,MaastrichtWeustenraadstraat 24 6217 HZ Maastricht. Tel: +31 (0)43-354 08 40 www.tevhid.nl

ArRahman(ElfathMoskee)Sint Lucassingel 706217 JC Maastricht. Tel: +31 (0)43-343 71 20, Fax: +31 (0)43-364 81 00 SynagogueMeerssenKuileneindestraat 22a, Meerssen. Tel: +31 (0)43-365 55 27.

SynagogueMaastrichtCapucijnengang 2, Maastricht.Tel: +31 (0)6-46 40 58 88.Rabbi Yaakov Y Schapiro. [email protected]@yahoo.comThe St Servaas Basilica at the Vrijthof


P14 P15


Typically(Dutch)?

The rule of Dutch behaviour is “doe maar gewoon, dan doe je gek genoeg”– act normal and you will be acting crazy enough. What this boils down to, basically, is modesty. Act modestly, live modestly: Do not buy expensive cars, do not have an attitude, decorate your home simply and don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.

5 Sports

For those of you who do not get enough exercise riding your bicycles to and from the university, UM SPORTs organises a huge sports programme to suit the needs and desires of all students.

What is most important to understand is that at the UM, sports do not come to you. If you are interested in sports and athletics you should go looking for them yourself. This means visiting the UM SPORT desk, visiting the clubs and organisations yourself, and eventually becoming a member. The sports programmes are not compulsory, but through UM SPORT you can involve yourself in as much physical activity as you please for very low fees.

The best place to start is at the UM SPORT web pages (www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/sport) or at the UM SPORT desk at Sports Centre Randwyck. There you can get information regarding the sports facilities and activities available to students.

5.1 UniversitySportsOrganization

To best understand what sports programmes are offered by the University, it is good to have an understanding of how the sports organisation is structured. There are three levels: UM SPORT, MUSST, and the individual sports clubs.

5.1.1UMSPORTUM SPORT is the central university department and responsible for the largest part ofthe sports programme at UM. Activities are spread all over the Maastricht area, but you will find a lot of them at Sports Centre Randwyck. This sports complex is a temporary location during the construction of Campus Maastricht (realized by 2012).The office as well as the desk is also located at Sports Centre Randwyck, P. Debyeplein 15 in Maastricht. Please check the website for the actual opening hours: www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/sportAll programmes under UM SPORT require a UM SPORT membership: a sports card and/or fitness licence which you can buy at the UM SPORT desk or at the UM SPORT web shop. (More information in section 5.2.1)

5.1.2MUSSTSports council MUSST (Maastricht University Student Sports Trust) is the umbrella organi-sation for 22 Student Sports Associations with sports varying from Sailing to Soccer. The total number of members for all these associations is around 1600. Within these asso-ciations, not only playing sports is important, but they also organise all kind of activities and parties.

Sports council MUSST supports these associations with subsidies, council and promo-tional efforts. Members of these associations can apply for subsidies with respect to the participation in tournaments.

Besides this, Sports council MUSST organises all kind of events, within Maastricht and on a national level. Examples are the Sportsweek, the Student Wintersport, the Batavieren-race and the Great Dutch Student Championships.


P16 P17


Individual sporters (non-members of one of the 19 associations) can apply for subsidies concerning NSK’s and GNSK’s (Dutch Students Championships and Great Dutch Student Championships).

5.1.3StudentSportsAssociations(SSA)

The various UM Students Sports Associations organise their own sports hours. These sports hours are only for their members. In September all Students Sports Associations usually organise introductory weeks, so that you can get acquainted with the various programmes.

To become a member of a Student Sport Association the UM Sports cards is required.

Again, the Sports council MUSST is the umbrella organisation of all Students Sports Associations in Maastricht. They can help you further with questions about any Student Sports Association.

5.2 SportsProgrammes

5.2.1UniversitySportsandmembershipUMSPORTYou are a UM SPORT member once you have a sports card and/or fitness licence.The Sports Card gives you access to several sports activities; all ‘walk in’ activitiesare free of charge. Some of the free activities included on the Sports Card are: badmin-ton, lacrosse, basketball, rugby, aerobics, floor ball, volleyball, wu shu, boxing, swimming, indoor soccer and judo.To use the gym at sports centre Randwyck you need a special permit: the fitness licence.New members can buy this licence after attending an introduction class. Once you have had a licence, you can yearly renew this permit without attending another introduction class. In combination with the sports card, the fitness licence is less expensive.Other activities are available for a limited number of participants and therefore offeredas a course. A course takes 7 or 14 weeks and you have to sign-up and pay an extra fee.Examples are: acrobatics, ballet, capoeira, modern dance, pilates, spinning and yoga. With a special season ticket you can join several spinning and clubpower (pump) classes.

Thereare2typesofmemberships:There are 3 types of memberships:I. SPORTS MEMBERSHIP: with the sports card gives: i. Access to all ‘walk in’ activities ii. Possibility to register for a course iii. Possibility to buy a season ticket. iv. Discount on the purchase a fitness licence. II. FITNESS MEMBERSHIP: with the fitness licence gives: i. Unlimited access to the gym/fitness club.III. SELECT MEMBERSHIP: thewith select pass gives: i. Access to restricted selection of the sports programme.

Depending on the time of purchase you have two options for the duration of your mem-bership: a membership for (the rest of) the academic year or the 4 month membership.

There are only 5 terms in which you can start: I. September-October, II. November-Decem-ber, III. January- February IV, March- April and V: May-June.

Note that at UM Sport there is no entrance fee and no notice.

For the most actual prices of a sports card, fitness licence and courses, please check our website: www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/sport

The Sports Card and the fitness licence can be bought at both the UM Sport web shopor at the UM Sport desk, where you can register for a course as well. Pre sale as of August 10 until September 15, 2009: € 2.50 discount on all 12 months memberships at the UM SPORT web shop as well as at the desk.

During the Try Out weeks (August 31 - September 12. 2009) you can join several activities without the sports card. See the website for an overview.Information on all sports activities offered and organised by UM SPORT can be found on the website www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/sport.

5.2.2PrivateSportsClubsThere are many private sports clubs in Maastricht, which cater to all levels and backgrounds.

As a general rule such clubs are more expensive than UM Sports, but are usually open to students and eager for new members. Although mostly a second choice to UM-organised sports where you can participate with your peers and enjoy discount rates, private clubs do offer most sports not available through the UM programme. Private clubs are too numerous to name here. If you are looking for a specific sport, ask at the UM Sport desk or search the Yellow pages, and keep your eyes open for posters and promotions.

5.2.3SportsFacilities

SwimmingPoolsThe UM Sports card allows you free access to some swimming pools at certain times.Please check the UM SPORT website or contact the swimming pool for information onlessons and water sports.

ZwembaddeDousbergPhone +31 (0)43-343 34 66 Dousbergweg 10 6216 GC, Maastricht

ZwembadHeerPhone +31 (0)43-362 04 04 Laan in den Drink 86226 HG, Maastricht FitnessCentreUMSPORTSports Centre RandwyckPhone: +31(0)43-388 53 11P. Debyeplein 156229 HA, Maastricht


P18 P19


Maastricht has more than 20 gyms, which you can search for in the Yellow Pages. Mostfitness programmes are also offered through the UM SPORT programme. However, someprivate gyms offer student discounts and personal training.

UMSPORTacitivities

Running Training Handball Sailing Indoor Soccer Pilates Aikido Lacrosse Jiu Jitsu Hockey Floor ball Power Kick Rowing Boxing Tennis Judo Basketball Acrobatics Korfball Yoga Volleyball Fencing Triathlon Capoeira Streetdance Cycling Karate Outdoor Soccer AerobicsClub Power Wu Shu Badminton Squash Waterpolo Ballet Swimming Modern Dance Spinning Ballroom Dance Condition Training Total Body WorkoutGymnastics Zumba Mindfulness Athletics Climbing Horse back riding Ice skating

5.3 CompetitiveSports

Students who compete as professional athletes are sometimes eligible for Top Sports benefits. This generally means that these students will have the opportunity to arrange their academic schedule around their training schedule to some extent, as well as gain access to some extra sports facilities. For more information, visit www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/sport and follow the link: “Study & Top Sports”.

Even if you are NOT a professional, any student entering a sporting tournament can apply for subsidy through MUSST (www.MUSST.nl) to help with registration and transportation costs.


P20 P21


6 Lifestyles

Whether it is sports, drinking, drama schools, classical music, volunteering for charity or meeting people from other cultures, Maastricht is guaranteed to have a programme that fits your lifestyle. This section, while incapable of showing you all possibilities, will try to get you in contact with as many of those groups as possible.

6.1 Findinggroupsandclubs

Finding a club in Maastricht is often a matter of luck. Although posters and recruitment campaigns are not uncommon, many clubs will wait for you to find them.

Here are a few tricks to finding a good club.

1) Ask around. The most common way to find your way into a club is to ask somebody. By the time a student reaches his or her third year, he or she is sure to have “a friend of a friend” in just about every organisation out there. Personal contacts are a key factor in finding your interests, so just ask.

2) Keep your eyes open. Posters are everywhere and each one offers its own unique op-portunity. Check student areas: in the Faculty buildings, at student cafés and around sports halls.

3) Check the Internet. It is more and more common for clubs to have their own website. Include “Maastricht” in the keywords and you are bound to come up with something.

Some Useful Sites: www.maastricht.nl; www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/web/ssc.htm;

www.eleum.unimaas.nl

4) Be diligent. Just because you did not find a club listed in the yellow pages does not mean it does not exist. Keep asking around and you will eventually find what you are looking for.

6.2 Afewsuggestions

Here is a list of activities that may interest you as a student. This is not a complete list. In fact, it is not even half of the list. New clubs start every week, filling the desires of students that share your interests. Think of this as a starting point.

AcademicAssociationsThese are numerous, and are different in every Faculty. Each Faculty has an information desk that should have at least some information on all of its associations. Also, nearly all of these groups are registered at the Student Service Center (www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/web/ssc.htm).

StudiumGeneraleStudium Generale is a University department, which offers a wide programme of lectures and debates, besides all sorts of cultural activities: theatre, pop music, world music, com-edy, students on stage etc. Please refer to 7.6 (SSC).


P22 P23


ArtAcademyThe Academy of Fine Arts Maastricht is located just down the road from the School of Business and Economics, at the far end of the Abtstraat. Students there enjoy extensive art facilities and train to become professional artists. If you are an artist, an aspiring artist, or just like the idea of art, check out the people and the programmes there and you are bound to find something to get involved in.

Charity

Ragweek Each year, the RAGWEEK is organised, involving all UM student associations organising activities that raise money for charity. www.ragweek.unimaas.nl

www.tafelstraat13.nl/volunteer.htm covers many charity organisations as well as service and activist groups.

Community

Tafelstraat 13 – Broaden your viewTafelstraat 13, the ecumenical student chaplaincy is a place where students meet. See 7.8 (SSC)

Erasmus Student Network ESN Maastricht helps international students integrate into life in Maastricht by organising mentorship programmes, greeting events and other activities. Postal address:Bonnefantenstraat 2 P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht

Visiting address:Bonnefantenstraat 2, Room B2.04 of the Student Service Center6211 KL Maastricht Office hours: Monday - Thursday: 15:00 -17:00 [email protected], www.esn-maastricht.nl Tel: +31 (0)43-388 53 57 Fax: +31 (0)43-753 45 84 International drink every Tuesday at the “Twee Heeren”.

CulturalGroups

ACSSNL The Association for Chinese Students and Scholars in the Netherlands is an official organisation supported by the national Chinese Embassy. It aims at uniting Chinese stu-dents and scholars in the Netherlands and helping each other. It provides students with information on living, studying and other social activities. For more information, check the website www.acssnl.org.

Chairman of the Maastricht Branch: Ming Li St.Servatiusweg 54, 6227 TT MaastrichtTel:+31 (0)6 41 23 84 76

Fraternities(See student associations)

HomosexualGroups

COC - Gay and Lesbian AssociationCOC Netherlands is a federation of 24 COC organisations in most of the larger Dutch cities. The local organisations operate in the region and offer personal support, support groups and information. They promote lesbian and gay interests and provide venues where gays and lesbians can meet. Special activities aim at older gays and lesbians, women, young people, ethnic minorities and people with disabilities. The local organisa-tions are run almost exclusively by volunteers.COC LimburgBogaardenstraat 436211 SN Maastricht+31 (0)43-321 83 [email protected]

KaleidoscopeMaastricht LGBT Student Association Kaleidoscope provides a social space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and like-mind-ed students in Maastricht. It promotes a more diverse student community, trying to create more awareness and acceptance of alternative sexual orientations and gender identities. Postal address: Student Service Center KaleidoscopeP.O. Box 616 6200 MD Maastricht www.kaleidoscope-maastricht.nl [email protected]

Languages

Maastricht University Language Centre

Developing a true international profile also includes learning foreign languages. Market research has shown that it is frequently the third or fourth language that proves to be the decisive factor in getting a job. It can also open doors for interesting career moves.

You can join all sorts of interesting courses at the UM Language Centre at reduced student rates:• All courses use a practical, communicative approach.• The focus is on active participation and real-world exercises.• Attention is paid to cultural aspects.


P24 P25


Ourofferiswideranging,andincludes:• Dutch courses at all levels

Highlight: The Dutch courses with codes NL9 and NL10 (with special groups for German and

Scandinavian-language speakers) are subsidized by UM, which means they are offered at a special reduced rate for international students (regular and exchange).

• English courses at all levels Highlights:

- New from August 2009: Survival Skills for the PBL classroom. This course will improve the communication skills that are vital for success in your studies.

- Preparatory courses for Cambridge exams FCE, CAE and CPE - Individual support in general and academic writing skills

• European and non-European languages, a broad variety including: - Beginners’ courses that will help you get started immediately in general daily situations - Intermediate and advanced courses with professional skills for practical application

in your studies or work. - For all languages we offer an assessment service if you need written proof of your

language skills. For a full overview of the courses and their levels, content, fees and starting dates, please refer to www.languages.maastrichtuniversity.nl

Visiting address: Sint Servaasklooster 39Postal address: PO Box 616, NL 6200 MD MaastrichtPhone: +31 (0)43 388 39 50Fax: +31 (0)43 325 72 46E-mail: [email protected]

Music

KumulusKumulus is a private arts school that offers courses in music, art, theatre and dance. For information call: +31(0)43-350 56 69 www.kumulus.nl / [email protected]

University Orchestra Maastricht The UM has a symphonic orchestra consisting mainly of students and employees from the University. The rehearsals are every Monday night. For more information please check www.unimaas.nl/orkest or send an e-mail to [email protected]. For more information call Ms Fransje Muysken: +31 (0)43-343 19 97

TUNA The UM also has a student association for traditional Spanish music. www.tunademaastricht.com/

PoliticalOrganisations

Amnesty International Amnesty International Maastricht Students (AIMS) is an active group of students who organise actions to forward the cause of universal human rights in the world.Contact: [email protected] Internet: www.amnesty-maastricht.org

Alert Alert Maastricht is composed of international UM students, who share the goal of stimu-lating the development of political thinking and exchanging different views on political matters. As such, Alert aims to provide a platform for political discussions about contro-versial topics within the university, such as globalisation versus democracy, G8, corporate responsibility and human rights, AIDS. For more information contact Jan Joseph Stok:[email protected] Phone: +31 (0)6-21 82 52 81

Religiousgroups(See section 4 on religion)

StudentAssociations-SocialStudent associations vary widely, from the purely social societies, to very tightly focused groups specialising in a single activity. Some of the largest and most popular social as-sociations are:

AIESEC Claiming to be the world’s largest international student association. For more information go to www.aiesec.nl/maastricht or email address [email protected] AIESEC MaastrichtTongersestraat 436211 LS MaastrichtRoom 0.014/ 2.011

AEGEE – International Student Association www.aegee-maastricht.org

Koko – Large local student associationwww.svkoko.nl

SVCircumflex – Large local student association www.circumflex.nl

M.S.V.Tragos – Large local student association www.tragos.nl

MDF– a federation of smaller student associations www.studver.unimaas.nl/mdf


P26 P27


7 StudentServices

7.1 StudentServicesCentre(SSC)

This department has a number of specialised service units for student-related issues such as accommodation, sports, information on studies and work and career advice. In addition, there is a central information desk in the Visitors’ Centre, to where current and prospective students may address their questions.

Visiting address: Bonnefantenstraat 2SSC website: www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/sscTelephone number: +31 43 388 5388

DepartmentsoftheStudentServicesCentre:Visitors’ Centre• Information desk• Coffeelovers• UM Gift shopStudent Registration• Admission and registration• Visa office• Scholarship officeCareer ServicesStudent Guidance• Psychological support • Study related legal support• Disability supportStudent Housing (Kamerburo)Studium GeneraleSportsTafelstraat 13Center for European Studies (CES)

7.2 Visitors’Centreandstudentregistration

InformationDeskThe information desk in the UM Visitors’ Centre at Bonnefantenstraat 2 is the first point of contact for current and new students. It provides the following services:• Help with admission and (re)registration• Information on and help with visas, scholarships, bank accounts and (health) insurance• Changing of address• Payment of tuition fees• Cancellation of registration• Reimbursement of tuition fees• Proof of payment/registration• Collection of your first UM card• Help with housing • Appointments with student deans, student psychologists, and career services• UM gifts

OSM – Independent Student platform [email protected]

Saurus– Social Rowing Associationwww.msrvsaurus.nl

Theatre

Alles Is Drama Alles is Drama is a student association that offers performance courses of many varieties. Alles is Drama Postbus 616 6200 MD Maastricht Phone +31 (0)43-388 53 58 [email protected]

Studium Generale University Department which offers a program of Theatre and Music, besides a program of Lectures and Debates. See 7.6 (SSC)

Writing

Eloquent Magazine Eloquent is the independent Faculty magazine of the School of Business and Economics. Written entirely in English, it provides a critical, economic perspective on a wide variety of areas. Eloquent is always open to new talents entering the team. In addition to the maga-zine, the website of Eloquent creates a useful source of information. Helpful material for your studies can be retrieved from this website.Website: www.eloquent.nl Email: [email protected]


P28 P29


Visiting hours information desk: Monday-Friday 8.30-18.00; Saturday 10.00-16.00

Please also feel free to contact our Callcentre for information regarding studying at Maastricht University:Phone: +31 43 388 5388E-mail: [email protected]: http://esc-ssc.unimaas.nlOpening hours Monday-Friday 8.30-17.00

AdmissionsThe Admissions Office is responsible for helping prospective bachelor and master stu-dents with their admission to Maastricht University. It provides information on diploma evaluation, admission procedures, sufficiency tests for courses and languages, etc. It is also responsible for the coordination of the prospective students’ admissions audit. The Admission Office works in close cooperation with the Registration, Visa and Scholarship Office to provide the best possible service to prospective students. For any questions on admissions, please contact the Admissions Office by e-mail:Prospective bachelor’s students: [email protected] Prospective master’s students: [email protected] Or contact our call centre.

VisaandScholarshipOfficeThe Visa Office offers prospective and current students assistance with obtaining visas, work or residence permits and with the extension of residence permits.E-mail: [email protected]

ScholarshipOfficeProspective and current students can obtain information about scholarships (Socrates/Erasmus, HSP Huygens, cultural treaties, NFP, UM High Potential and UM Company schol-arships). E-mail: [email protected]

For any questions on visas or scholarships, please also visit our website: www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/ssc

7.3 UMCareerServices

UM Career Services aims at assisting students with a successful preparation for their future Career through workshops, information, advice and counselling. In addition UM Career Services links students of Maastricht University to the job market in various ways.

What does UM Career Services offer:• Career&InformationCentre: resource centre with all kinds of information about

career and study• QuickCareerAdvice:15 minutes guidance counselling about career planning and study

choice• CareerCounsellors: individual in-depth coaching about career planning and study

choice (max. 3 consults of 1 hour)• Jobinterviewsimulation(individual): preparation for an actual employment interview,

video-taped and evaluated • Lectures,presentationsandcareerevents: in cooperation with study associations,

alumni and companies• Informativewebsitewith:

- Vacancy database: internships, graduate jobs, student jobs, voluntary work and vacancies for alumni

- A day in the life of… UM alumni: database with testimonials of alumni per faculty - Career events: calendar of career related events - My Career Links: overview of relevant websites• Workshops:in Dutch and English Examples of workshops: Discover your competences, Job Interview, CV & letter of ap-plication, Assessment Center, Employment contract & negotiations, Choose your Master, Entrepreneurship, etc.

All our services are free of charge, with the exception of workshops (€ 10,-). Career Services assists UM students until 2 years after graduation.

For more information: www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/careerservicesE-mail: [email protected] making an appointment: +31 (0)43-388 53 88

7.4 StudentGuidance

At university you are expected to be independent and take care of your affairs yourself.This does not mean, however, that you won’t have any questions!The student counsellors can surely answer many of your questions.Below please find an overview of the counsellors working at Student Services Centre:

Psychologicalsupport(studentpsychologists)The student psychologists may be consulted in case of personal problems. Examples of such problems may be:• Study related problems like study stress and fear of failure• Psychological complaints such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, stress-related

complaints, lack of confidence, dealing with traumatic experiences.

The student psychologists can help you by means of individual guidance and/or group training (in Dutch and English).Examples of group training; Training course on fear of failure, Study efficacy group, Loss and mourning group, Stress management, Assertiveness training and Time management. For more information: www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/studentguidance E-mail: [email protected] For making an appointment: +31 (0)43-388 53 88


P30 P31


Studyrelatedlegalsupport(Studentdeans)The student deans can help you when you have questions about:• Your rights in case of a study delay because of illness, pregnancy, family circumstances

or practising top sports• Student grants• Studying with a functional impairment• Membership of a council, board, committee or membership of the board of a student

organisation• Other questions concerning your rights as a student

For more information: www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/studentguidance E-mail: [email protected] Open visiting hours: Every Tuesday from 14.00-16.00 o’clock, Bonnefantenstraat 2For making an appointment: +31 (0)43-388 53 88

Studyingwithadisability,chronicillnessordyslexiaIt is important to Maastricht University that students with a functional impairment can successfully complete their studies without too much delay. By functional impairment the UM means all disorders that are of a permanent or temporary character. Amongst these are all motor, sensory or psychological disorders, but also non-visible disorders, such as dyslexia, chronic illness, physical complaints, depression and the like. The Disability Support Office is available to students (with a functional impairment), prospective students, student counselors, teachers, parents and others who are interested and offers:• Information about studying with impairment, laws, (UM-) regulations and external

organizations• Advice• Support (for example, by arranging facilities)• Help with requesting (education) facilities• Assistance addressing complaints and problems with regard to this topic

When you have a functional impairment or if you get confronted with an impairment during your study, this might imply that adjustments and facilities are needed in order to reduce study hindrances and delays. Facilities have to be requested on time. The Service desk closely cooperates with student deans, study advisors, student psychologists and career counsellors.

For more information: www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/disability E-mail: [email protected] Open visiting hours: Monday – Thursday from 10:00-12:00Telephone: +31 (0)43-388 52 72

7.5 StudentHousing–Kamerburo

Student housing helps students to find accommodation in Maastricht and the surround-ing area. The Kamerburo is a non-commercial housing agency which is located in the Students Services Centre. The Kamerburo acts as a mediator between the housing market (public and private) and students. All mediation and registration takes place via www.kamerburo.net

Most exchange students opt for a room in the University Guesthouse, and they only need to contact the Kamerburo if they intend to stay longer than the regular exchange programme or if they prefer a room outside the Guesthouse.

7.6 StudiumGenerale

Studium Generale (SG) offers a programme of lectures & debates and cultural activities. With interesting lectures and exiting debates SG reveals a wider experience of the arts, sciences and of society. The cultural program presents a variety of activities such as com-edy, theatre and music. There is also an opportunity for you to perform on stage. Studium Generale helps you to expand your horizons and learn about other aspects of knowledge. It will enable you to put things into perspective and help you to analyze political, cultural and social issues.

WhichactivitiesdoesStudiumGeneraleorganise?• Publiclecturesanddebates. The foundation of cultural, scientific and social issues. Free

admission, no obligations, gain insight into topics outside your study;• SGOnStage. Pop Music, World Music, Comedy and Theatre. You can also perform! See

the Open Mic, the Student Song Contest and the Battle of the Bands. Great ambiance, exciting performances;

• Shortlectureseries. In series of six lectures topics are addressed that contribute to the academic education of students, for example on Consciousness, Legal Psychology, Human Rights and Philosophers of the Twentieth Century;

• TheSGScienceCafé. A meeting place for scientists and university students. The café provides an opportunity to debate with scientists in an informal atmosphere. With live music.

For more information: www.sg.unimaas.nl

7.7 Sports

University sports at their best: affordable, relaxing, open, challenging and international.More information in section 5 (sports), or visit: www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/sport


P32 P33


7.8 Tafelstraat13–Broadenyourview

Tafelstraat 13 is the ecumenical student chaplaincy where students meet. The building, with a living room and a kitchen, is suitable for different kinds of meetings, get-togethers with friends, social activities or peace and reflection.

Because your time as a student is a time of exploring and growing, Tafelstraat 13 offers a wide range of activities during the academic year. To give you a little impression: discussion evenings about political, ethical or religious topics, walking tours, dining together, cultural trips, creative workshops, Taizé Vespers and international encounters. These activities offer the unique possibility to find out more about yourself and others. They also contribute to your personal development, consciousness-raising and social responsibility.There are chaplains for personal support. Whether you need a confidential talk or a help-ing hand, there is a warm welcome for everybody regardless of religion or background.

Curious? Our website gives you current information and it also offers the possibility to register for activities or our newsletter.

For more Information: www.tafelstraat13.nl E-mail: [email protected] Visiting address: Tafelstraat 13, MaastrichtTelephone: +31 (0)43 321 56 51

7.9 CenterforEuropeanStudies(CES)

If you are a non-EU student who would like to study at Maastricht University for one se-mester or for a summer programme, you can study through the Center for European Stud-ies (CES). You can choose from the wide variety of all courses that the UM offers. CES is there to ensure full integration into university life and help you with all kinds of questions you might have, both academic and practical. If you are looking for a fantastic European experience, individual guidance, 24/7 assistance in case of an emergency and help with anything from an airport pick-up to finding a room, CES is the place to be.

For more Information: www.ces.unimaas.nl E-mail: [email protected]


P34 P35


8 Onthemove

8.1 Thebicycle

If you really want to sample Dutch life and get around quickly and easily, make sure you buy a bicycle. Get one just like the Dutch use as a serious form of transport: a sturdy, no-nonsense bicycle, preferably not too expensive so that if it gets stolen you will not feel too bad. Be sure to buy a good solid lock and fix your bicycle to an immovable object, in order to discourage bicycle-thieves. In fact, most Dutch students spend more money on the locks than on the bicycle itself.

8.1.1 BuyingasecondhandbicycleMost students buy second hand bicycles; prices vary greatly. Although second hand bicy-cles are not easy to get, you can try one of these addresses in Maastricht:

Courtens Bike Sports Quaaden Rijwiel- en BromfietsenhandelCalvariestraat 16, Maastricht Akersteenweg 22, MaastrichtT: +31 (0)43- 321 38 20 T: +31 (0)43-361 39 25 www.courtensbikesports.nl

Aon de Stasie Tweewielerspecialist Rijwielhandel George Walstock Stationsplein 26, Maastricht Ruttensingel 59, MaastrichtT: +31 (0)43-321 11 00 T: +31 (0)43-325 06 62

You can also ask your fellow students if they happen to have any spare bicycles standing around at home, which is not uncommon.

A word of advice: if you have to leave your bicycle at the station overnight do not park it on the premises, since this is the most common place for it to get stolen. Instead, park it indoors at the bicycle garage “Aon de Stasie Tweewielerspecialist”, which is near the station, and simply pick up your bicycle upon return. Leaving your bicycle at the garage costs € 1.10 per day. If you park your bicycle overnight, you have to pay for two days. For example: if you bring in your bicycle on Monday and you pick it up on Tuesday, you are charged € 2.20.

8.1.2 BicycletheftIf your bicycle gets stolen, you should report it to the police. Once you have the official police report you can visit the police station every last Saturday of the month to see if they have found your bicycle. If the police do not retrieve your bicycle, you have the op-portunity to buy one of the other bicycles that were stolen, retrieved by the police but not picked up by the owner. These bicycles can be bought at a very low price.

I want to ride my bicycle…

• there are about 16 million bicycles in the Netherlands, slightly more than one for every inhabitant;

• about 1.3 million new bicycles are sold every year; • there are 3.277 bicycle shops in the Netherlands; • there are 19.100 kilometres of bicycle paths and lanes,

and 115,600 kilometres of paved roads.


P36 P37


8.2 Bicyclelaws

8.2.1 GeneralbicyclelawsPlease note that the laws for cyclists in the Netherlands are quite strict. Although there are many bicycle facilities such as bicycle lanes on the streets and bicycle parkings, you are advised to pay attention to the road signs etc. One-way streets that are nevertheless accessible for bicycles are clearly labelled as such; deciding to drive into one-way streets in the wrong direction can result in a heavy fine. Also, make sure that when buying a second hand bicycle the brakes and more importantly the lights actually WORK. The police do regular check-up rounds on the inner city streets in particular and they will pay no atten-tion to the fact that you are a foreign exchange student and therefore not familiar with Dutch laws.

8.2.2 InnerCityRegulationsThere is a prohibition for bicycles and scooters to be placed randomly within the pedes-trian area of the inner city. Bicycles and scooters must be stored in the respective bicycle racks. If you do not do so, your bicycle will be removed and brought to a bicycle parking on Kesselskade; scooters are moved to Het Bat. The owner can pick it up there.

8.3 PublicTransportation

8.3.1 Buses,tramsandsubwaysTransport companies provide frequent services on buses and trams. Amsterdam and Rotterdam also have subways (called: metro). Rural communities are linked by bus. You can use the same ticket in all of the buses, trams and subways throughout the country. This ticket is called a strippenkaart, or stripcard. You can buy those with two or three strips from the bus or tram driver, but the cards with 15 or 45 strips that you buy in advance are much cheaper. These more economical cards can be bought at all railway stations and post offices, as well as in many bookstores and cigarette shops. A stamp on a strip cancels that strip and all those above it. If you buy a strippenkaart on the bus you pay in cash; note that on an increasing number of buses you can also pay with your Chipknip.

8.3.2 TrainsThe Netherlands has a dense railway network that offers frequent service as well as the quickest way to travel between city centres. The carriages are modern and clean and, al-though many Dutch people complain about delays, the trains usually run on time. On the train you have a choice of carriages: first or second class, which is indicated with a large 1 or 2 painted on the outside of each wagon. First class costs about 50 % more and gives you a slightly larger seat in a compartment that is less likely to be full. Smoking is not allowed on any train, and is also prohibited in the station and on the platforms (although there are special zones on the platform where smoking is permitted; these zones are indicated by a tall pillar, containing ash trays and the words “rookzone”. Anyone caught smoking outside these zones will get a heavy fine).

TrainscheduleFrom Maastricht you can go by train to practically any destination in the Netherlands. Some destinations can be reached directly from Maastricht, for other destinations you have to transfer to another train at a station.

Information about the departure times of trains going to and leaving from Maastricht can be found on the web sites: www.ns.nl in Dutch and English, www.9292OV.nl only in Dutch (this site also gives information about bus, tram and metro schedules). On the website www.holland.com/global/ you can find tips for interesting places to go in the Netherlands.

TicketsRegular tickets are either one-way (enkele reis) or return (retour). They are valid only on the day you buy them, unless you ask specifically for a ticket with a different date or no date. In that case, you must have the date stamped on the ticket before you get in to the train on the day you travel. You do this at one of the yellow machines in the hall or on the platform. You buy your ticket at a ticket window or at a yellow ticket machine, which you will find either in the main hall of the station or on the platform. At the ticket machine you can only pay with your bank card, either by using your PIN or Chipknip. If you only have cash at hand, you can buy your ticket at the ticket window (which is slightly more expensive). Note that not all stations have a ticket window. If you find yourself on a sta-tion without a ticket window and no bank card, make sure you alert the ticket collector on the train upon embarking to avoid getting fined for not having a ticket.

CostsThere is a wide variety of passes and special tickets that can save you money. Which type you choose depends on the kind of travelling you plan to do – frequent or infrequent, in a group or alone, during morning rush hour or not, etc. Ask the clerk at the ticket window for advice.

If you are travelling to a city in the Netherlands and are planning to stay there for the weekend, you can save money by buying a so called weekend retour. The only condition is that you leave Friday after 19:00 hrs and make sure you arrive before 04:00 hrs on Monday.

If you want to travel extensively within the Netherlands, it is advisable to buy a so-called voordeelurenkaart. This railway pass gives you 40% reduction on your train tickets, if you travel on weekdays after 09:00 hrs or during the weekends. Furthermore, you can take three other persons with you and they can also travel at 40% reduction, provided you travel together the whole time. This railway pass costs € 55 and is valid for a whole year.

Note: Dutch students have an OV-studentenkaart with which they can travel for free in the Netherlands. They can also take up to three people at the discount rate of 40%, so if you are making a trip through the country, it is worth travelling with a holder of the OV-studentenkaart. As exchange student you are not eligible for the OV-studentenkaart since you do not get studiefinanciering and do not pay tuition fees.

8.3.3 TravellingabroadIf you want to explore the rest of Europe, there are several opportunities to do that in an economical way: if you want to travel extensively throughout one country try Eurodomino, if you want to travel in several countries within Europe ask for Interrail. Specific informa-tion about these packages can be obtained at the railway station or via www.ns.nl.


P38 P39


One specific ticket that deserves mentioning is the Belgian Go Pass for people under the age of 26, which is a very cheap and efficient way to travel through Belgium. The Go Pass costs € 50.00 and is valid for 10 single trips between any two Belgian train stations (ex-cept border stations). The Go Pass can only be purchased at Belgian train stations, so from Maastricht take the train to Liège and buy it there.

Extra note concerning travelling abroad: once you have obtained your residence permit (if you need one) you can travel freely in the Schengen countries (Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxemburg, Greece, France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Italy, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden). However, as long as you do not have your residence permit, it is wise to check whether you might need a visa before you want to travel.

When travelling around Europe by airplane there are several airline companies that offer cheap flights, for example: Ryanair (www.ryanair.com)Brussels Airlines (http://www.brusselsairlines.com)Easyjet (www.easyjet.com)Transavia (www.transavia.com)German Wings (www.germanwings.com)Air Berlin (www.airberlin.com)Tuifly (www.tuifly.com)

ISICCardIf you travel outside of the Netherlands and want to be eligible for certain student discounts your UM card will often not be enough to identify you as a student, and an In-ternational Student Identity Card is often required. For more information on how to apply for an ISIC card go to www.isiccard.com

8.3.4 RentacarWhen travelling through Europe it is also possible to rent a car. Some car rentals in Maas-tricht:

Adrem HertzHeerderweg 33, Maastricht Maastricht Aachen Airport, Beek T: +31 (0)43-352 11 00 T: +31 (0)46 475 00 07

Avis Sixt Parallelweg 38, Maastricht Spoorweglaan 18, Maastricht T: +31 (0)43-325 23 77 T: +31 (0)43-310 17 37

8.3.5 Taxisandtrain-taxisAll regular Dutch taxis use meters and all charge roughly the same rate. When you get into the taxi to start your journey, the meter will already show a balance of several Euros. This ensures the driver of a minimum fare. Only for very long distances it is sometimes possible to negotiate a fare. Otherwise you pay what the meter indicates. It is custom-ary to give taxi drivers a tip, by rounding up the amount payable. If you need a taxi you either call (see numbers of Maastricht Taxi-services below) or go to a taxi stand where taxis wait. Taxi stands can be found for example at the market or the train station in Maastricht.

TaxisinMaastricht:

Taxi Centrale Frenske Automotive Group ZuidT: +31 (0)43-363 63 62 www.brull.nl

T: +31 (0)43-343 00 00

8.4 Drivingyourcar

Some points of advice:• Drive on the right hand side of the road. • Parking violations are punished rather severely: look for signs that say betaald parkeren

(paid parking) or a blue sign with a white P in the middle. • Wearing your seatbelt is mandatory. • Using your cell phone in the car while driving is only allowed as long as it is hands-free. TrafficSignsIn general, blue signs tell you what is OK and red signs warn you of a restriction. A red cir-cle indicates that something is forbidden and a red triangle tells you something about the road conditions. A yellow or orange diamond indicates that you are on a road with priority (also see paragraph 7.2 on Bicycle laws).

LicenseIf you have a valid driver’s license from one of the following countries, you are allowed to drive in the Netherlands for a period of 1 year: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Re-public, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and United Kingdom.Car insurance and service can be arranged through: ANWBWycker Brugstraat 24, Maastricht (Wijck)T: +31 (0)70 – 314 64 43


P40 P41


TheDutchMentalityBy Han van der Horst

The Dutch position on the international market is a strong one. This is not necessarily because the Dutch are the cheapest. It is not easy to be the cheapest, coming from a country where the wages are high and the social provisions the same. What the Dutch need to focus on is an optimal ratio between quality and price and their legendary dependability.

You can find daily proof of this mentality at the busstops, the time the bus will be there is specified to the minute. For instance, 18.06, 17.46 and 19.08. This is not a statement of intent. It is an aim that will be sought to be achieved with all possible means. Should the bus be late due to a traffic jam or any other form of delay, then you will find that the atmosphere among the passengers will plum-met.They will steal quick, irritated glances at their watches. They will start to pace restlessly. If they have a mobile phone, they will make a call. And when the bus arrives, five minutes late, the transportation company will have scored badly. This reaction of the passengers is less exaggerated than it seems.Arriving on time and keeping an appointment are key issues in the running of the Dutch society. Now that the bus is late, one might miss the tram or the train and thus be delayed even further. This can mean trouble for the person in question, but also for the others expecting him. They will not be able to make optimal use of the time allotted to the appointment, which will further upset their agenda.

This notorious system of appointments and agendas is surprisingly flexible and efficient, if you keep the main rules in mind: you must make an appointment for everything and you must stick to the agreed time.

9 Healthcare

9.1 FamilyDoctor(huisarts)

The huisarts is usually a General Practitioner who lives in your neighbourhood and in general, you need to go to him or her if you need medical assistance. Only if you cannot leave your house the doctor will make a house call. Your huisarts will be the first one you call whenever you have any medical questions or you need help. If the huisarts thinks you need more specialised expertise, he/she will recommend you to a specialist.Note: you need this recommendation from a huisarts, otherwise you cannot go to see a specialist.

FamilydoctorsinMaastricht

Maastricht Centre Maastricht EastDr. Smits C. Wijnands and Th. van der WaartGlacisweg 1, Maastricht Voltastraat 30, Maastricht Phone: +31 (0)43-321 63 00 Phone: +31 (0)43- 363 74 33 (Near the University)

(Near Guesthouse Annadal)Huisartsenpraktijk Huisartsenpraktijk De PoortAnnadal Becanusstraat 15, Maastricht Becanusstraat 15, Maastricht Phone: +31 (0)43-343 66 85 Phone: +31 (0)43-347 55 50

(Near Guesthouse Heugemerweg)Dr. Bastiaens and Dr. van de Berg Clermontlunet 3A, MaastrichtPhone: +31 (0)43-321 62 68 or +31 (0)43-321 28 79

You can look in the phone book under huisartsen for more suggestions. If you need to see a doctor between 17:00 and 08:00 hrs (when the family doctors can no longer be reached) please call +31 (0)43-387 77 77. You are required to make an appointment and go to the Emergency Room of the hospital.

REMEMBER•Alwayscallfirsttomakeanappointment•TakeacopyofyourEuropeanHealthInsuranceCard(orotherproofofHealth

Insurance)withyou,whenyougotoseeadoctor.•Takemoneywithyoutopayfortheconsultation.Sometimestheproofof

insuranceisnotsufficient.Ifyouhavetopayfortheconsultationrightaway,youcanretrieveitfromyourinsuranceafterwards.Alwaysmakesurethatyougetareceiptofpayment!


P42 P43


9.2 Medication

9.2.1 Pharmacy(apotheek)The huisarts can recommend medication and give you a prescription (recept).Prescription drugs are bought at a pharmacy. In addition, pharmacies also sell over the counter (non-prescription) drugs, vitamins, medical supplies etc.

Pharmacies situated near the GuesthouseApotheek Martens Sijstermans/ Lloyd Apotheek Koningin Emmaplein 19, Maastricht Dokter van Kleefstraat 2, Maastricht Phone: +31 (0)43-321 24 66 Phone: +31 (0)43-343 26 30 Mon-Fri: 8:00 -18:00 hrs Mon-Fri: 8:30 -18:00 hrsSat-Sun: closed Sat-Sun: closed

Apotheek Wyck Apotheek Straver (near Heugemerweg) (near Majellastraat) Wyckerbrugstraat 10, Maastricht Akersteenweg 88, Maastricht Phone: +31 (0)43-321 36 25 Phone:+31 (0)43-361 28 29 Mon-Fri: 8:30-18:00 hrs, 24 hours/7 days a week Sat: 10:00 -16:00 hrs

9.2.2 Drugstore(drogisterij)A drugstore does not sell prescription drugs but handles over the counter remedies such as throat lozenges, syrups, homeopathic medicines and pain relievers, as well as toiletries, cosmetics, cleaning supplies etc. An example of a drugstore near the Guesthouse is ETOS (situated in the Brusselse Poort shopping mall).

9.3 Hospital

There are many good hospitals in the Netherlands, all with the latest technology. Eight of them are university hospitals, the others are run by the community or religious organisa-tions. The only difference between university hospitals and community or religious hospitals is that on the whole, more research is carried out at university hospitals so that they can be more up-to-date on recent medical developments.

The hospital in Maastricht is a university hospital (Academic Hospital Maastricht): AZM Debeyelaan 25 (near MECC)Phone: +31 (0)43-387 65 43

EMERGENCIES

Incaseofanemergency,callthenationalemergencynumber112.Heretheywillinquirewhetheryouneedanambulance,thepoliceorthefire

departmentandwillconnectyoutotherightdepartment.IfyouneedthepolicebutitisNOTanemergency,pleasecall0900 8844.

EMERGENCYNUMBER:1 1 2

9.4 Dentist(tandarts)

If you have dental problems, you can contact one of the following dentists, or look in the phone book for other suggestions:

Tandartspraktijk van Nouhuys Menger O.T(near the School of Business and Economics) (near the Central Station) Hertogsingel 89B Stationsstraat 46Maastricht Maastricht Phone: +31 (0)43-321 17 36 Phone: +31 (0)43-321 34 76

Remember: you have to make an appointment first!Pleasenote:not all medical insurances cover dental costs, so please check this before you make an appointment.

9.5 Physiotherapist

If your back gets sore from spending too much time hunched over your books, or you sprain your ankle in your rush to make it on time for your exams, you may want to think about getting some physiotherapy to help you on your way to recovery.

You do not need a referral from a huisarts, you can just call for an appointment. Please check with your insurance if they reimburse the costs, which you pay in cash and for which you need to ask a receipt. You can find a list of physiotherapists in Maastricht in the Yellow Pages. Always nice to know: “Schiffelers Fysiotherapie” is the only physiotherapist in Maastricht that has a swimming pool. You have to make an appointment via: Schiffelers Fysiotherapie Mr Maarten Schiffelers Boschstraat 150, 6200 AA MaastrichtTel: +31 (0)43-123 45 67 Fax: +31 (0)43-351 05 42Email: [email protected] Website: www.lendumont.nl/schiffelersfysio

9.6 Studentpsychologistsandstudentdeans

Studentpsychologists May be consulted in case of personal problems. Please refer to 7.4 (SSC)

Studentdeans Study related legal support (student deans). Please refer to 7.4 (SSC)

It is important to know that the conversations with all the UM counsellors are confiden-tial. For more information visit: www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/studentguidance


P44 P45


9.7 Others

CAD(CentreforAlcoholandotherDrugs)

Offers help to addicted people.Address: Wilhelminasingel 68a, Maastricht Phone: +31 (0)43 325 40 81

RIAGGMaastrichtRegional Institute for Ambulatory Mental Health Care Address: Parallelweg 45-47, Maastricht Phone: +31 (0) 43 329 96 99 Open: Monday/Wednesday & Friday: 08:30-17:30 hrs Tuesday & Thursday 08:30 – 20:00 hrs

9.8 Confidentialadvisor

The Executive Board of the Universiteit Maastricht actively pursues a policy against unde-sirable behaviour at the workplace and in the study environment. Undesirable behaviour includes at least sexual harassment, aggression, violence and bullying, and discrimination.The confidential advisor is there to provide assistance and support to people who are troubled by the undesirable behaviour of others. The individual who reports such behav-iour should have the opportunity to end it, if necessary with external help. The confiden-tial advisor is the person who gives guidance to a complainant who wishes to take her/his complaint further. The confidential advisor acts only with the consent of the complainant.

Confidential advisor on undesirable behaviour: Marloes RikhofTel: +31(0)43 388 25 13Fax: +31(0)43 388 48 63e-mail: [email protected]

9.9 Studyingwithadisability,chronicillnessordyslexia

It is important to Maastricht University that students with a functional impairment can successfully complete their studies without too much delay.See 7.4 (SSC)


P46 P47


10 Drugs

10.1 Drugpolicy

The Dutch approach to combating drug abuse is perhaps the most misunderstood aspect of life in the Netherlands. The aim, as in many countries, is to reduce addiction to hard drugs and the crime associated with it. In the Netherlands, one way of achieving this has been to separate the markets for hard and soft drugs. The theory is that if soft drugs are brought out into the open and away from the criminal dealers, their use is far less likely to lead to hard drug addiction. Young people are free to try smoking a joint if they wish; they can do it openly and without coming into contact with criminals. The statistics show that under these circumstances most young people do not form a habit. Addiction to heroin and cocaine is actually on a decline in the Netherlands, where it is a crime to sell hard drugs but addiction is treated as a health problem.

Please take into account the drug policy of the Guest House: Dealinginandpossessionofsoftdrugsandharddrugsisforbiddenandshallleadtoimmediateevictionoftheguestsandanendtotheircontract.TheGuesthouseUMshallnotifythepolice!

10.2 Coffeeshops

A coffeeshop can best be described as a café that does not sell alcoholic beverages and in which, under certain circumstances, soft drugs may be sold and used. Although the sale of soft drugs is an offence, low priority is given to the prosecution of coffeeshop owners, provided they sell small quantities only and meet the following conditions: - no more than five grams per person may be sold in any one transaction; - no hard drugs may be sold; - drugs may not be advertised; - the coffeeshop must not cause any trouble; - no drugs may be sold to persons under the age of 18, nor may minors be admitted on the

premises.

10.3 SmokingBan

Although not an actual drug it is good to know that smoking tobacco (cigarettes, cigars and pipes) in bars and restaurants is prohibited as per 1 July 2008.


P48 P49


11 SocialEventsandImportantDates

Here is a summary of some of the most important happenings throughout the year in Maastricht and the surrounding area. Check the calendar at the back of this handbook for a summary of what is happening and when.

11.1 Carnaval

Carnaval: the Dutch either love it or hate it. Those who live in the southern provinces (es-pecially Brabant and Limburg) love it and celebrate it with passion. Virtually all businesses close in a three-day celebration of life, spring, beer and friendship, though in the province of Limburg there is an added element of poking fun at the government and politics. People get dressed up and go from café to café, singing songs, dancing and drinking. There is no need to be afraid of this being a local festivity at which strangers are not accepted: as long as you dress up (preferably also paint your face) you are more than welcome. Go to a shop called In ’t Panhuis (address: Markt 74 in Maastricht) for your own dazzling carnaval outfit. This academic year Carnaval will take place from 14 – 16 February 2010. Carnaval is the big-gest event of the year in Maastricht and as an exchange student you cannot miss this!

11.2 30April-TheQueen’sBirthday

All through history, the Dutch Royal family has been very popular and their birthdays have been celebrated with enthusiasm. Queen Beatrix celebrates her birthday on 30 April. You can either celebrate it by visiting one of the towns or cities the Queen visits on this day (and witness some true old-fashioned entertainment) or you can visit some of the bigger cities. Amsterdam, and to a lesser extent Utrecht, is the place to be during this day: bands playing everywhere, people dancing in the streets and having lots of fun! The trains to Amsterdam tend to be packed (people actually travel from Eindhoven to Maastricht first to obtain a seat) so make sure you go early. The night before, called koninginnenacht (night of the Queen), is also wild and celebrated mainly in The Hague with large open air concerts at various locations. Since the Dutch national colour is orange everyone wears something orange on the Queens Birthday, so if you really want to mingle with the Dutch you know what to do.

11.3 4May-DutchMemorialDay

Though this is not exactly to be considered a festivity, it is a day of national significance. 4 May is the day on which the Dutch remember those who died during the Second World War; soldiers, people in the Resistance and those who died in concentration camps in Europe as well as in Indonesia. The radios are silent between 20:00 and 20:01 hrs, and people sit in silence to remember those who did not make it through the war.

11.4 5May-LiberationDay

Following the melancholy day of 4 May is 5 May, the day on which the Dutch celebrate their total liberation from the occupying forces in 1945 (some parts of the Netherlands were already liberated in November 1944). On this day, flags are flown full-mast and the streets take on a festive look. Throughout the country, it is celebrated everywhere and there are a lot of open-air concerts.

Carnival monument at the Vrijthof.


P50 P51


11.5 Preuvenemint

Preuvenemint is a four-day culinary event on the Vrijthof in Maastricht. It is held annually during the last weekend of August (27-30 August 2009 and 26-29 August 2010). The Vrijthof will then be filled with some forty stands in a lovely setting, where the local elite meet to see and be seen. People come from far to experience the delicious food and wine and enjoy the excellent ambiance. For further information visit: www.preuvenemint.nl

11.6 5December-Sinterklaas

Through the centuries Sinterklaas has been considered the patron saint of children. Ac-cording to legend, he saved his town from starvation and he is said to have revived three dead children. He supposedly arrives in the Netherlands somewhere around the middle of November on his steamboat from Spain. This boat is loaded with gifts and populated by Zwarte Pieten (Black Petes), his helpers. One explanation why Sinterklaas has zwarte (black) pieten to help him is because the Moors dominated Spain for several hundreds of years. Another more popular explanation for zwarte piet being black is that he has come down the chimneys so often that he can not wash the dirt off. Sinterklaas is not only a holiday for children: also grown-ups like to participate in the fun. This is often done by means of a gift (serious, silly or, often, homemade - the latter type is called a surprise) with an accompanying funny poem.

11.7 Elfstedentocht

Though this is not so much an official festivity, much less an annually recurring one, it is well worth mentioning. Every year, the Dutch hope for a severe winter as this will freeze over the lakes and canals in the province of Friesland, allowing the Elfstedentocht to take place. This Elfstedentocht is a race on ice-skates, that passes through 11 cities in Friesland (hence elf steden or eleven cities) and is almost 200 kilometers long. The life of the win-ners of this event will never be the same again – they become national heroes and are recognized wherever they go. A surprising fact is that the winners are seldom trained Olympic ice skaters, but modest farmers who have been training as a hobby.

11.8 Oktoberfest(Munich,Germany) Although admittedly a German tradition, Maastricht students cross the border en masse to take part in this wild festival of drinking, singing, and generally being happy together. Feel free to join in with a gang of German students to enjoy this truly European tradition. The Oktoberfest in Munich receives six million visitors annually, making it the world’s largest fair. This year it starts on 19 September, 2009 and lasts until 04 October, 2009. For more information visit www.oktoberfest.de.

11.9 Otherevents

Winter• Christmas market (mid November-Christmas) – Valkenburg, Heerlen, Maastricht. • Winterland (from 28 November 2009 until 03 January 2010): a winter wonderland at

the Vrijthof in Maastricht with an ice-skating rink, Ferris wheel and other attractions. See www.winterland.nl

Spring• TEFAF (The European Fine Art Fair) (12-21 March 2010): A nine day long fair of famous

international art antiques at the MECC in Maastricht. The fair had over 75,000 visitors last year and many art lovers consider it the world’s most prestigious art and antiques fair. See www.tefaf.com

• Easter in Maastricht (4-5 April 2010): International music festival taking place in the city centre of Maastricht and the MECC. Big bands, brass bands and choirs will perform.

• St. Servaasfeest (early May): Week-long funfair on the Vrijthof in Maastricht, procession to the St. Servatius Source, special services in the St. Servaas Basilica, concluding with the St. Servaas procession.

Summer• Lowlands Festival: Another huge yearly music festival, which also features art, theatre,

film, comedy and much more! 21-22-23 August 2009. www.lowlands.nl• Pinkpop (Whitsun): three-day pop festival (one of the largest in The Netherlands) in

Landgraaf, 22-23-24 May 2010. www.pinkpop.nl • Rock Werchter (Belgium): 2-3-4-5 July 2009. www.rockwerchter.be

Fall• Jumping Indoor Maastricht (26-29 November 2009): International horse show jumping

contest. www.jumpingindoormaastricht.nl


P52 P53


12 WorkingintheNetherlands

If you are going to be staying in the Netherlands for more than a few months, you may want to get a job to support your activities and make some money. Although the Dutch system for applying for work is complicated, it is not impenetrable if you understand some of the basics.

12.1 Whocanwork?

CitizensofEEAStates(Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and United Kingdom)These citizens are allowed to work unconditionally, and do not require residence permits. There are no legal barriers to working in the Netherlands and students can apply directly for the job they want. Hence, you do NOT need to have a residence permit or a work permit. However, you do need to obtain a BSN (Burger Service Number). You first register with City Hall where you will get a sticker in your passport; after this you can apply for a BSN number.

CitizensfromBulgariaandRomaniaThese citizens still need to obtain a work permit; see below.

CitizensfromoutsidetheEU(Everybody else) If you want to get a temporary job during your exchange period in Maastricht and you are a national from a non-European Union country you are not legally allowed to work without a permit. It is possible to work only if you keep the following conditions in mind:

a) You have to have a residence permit, andb) Your employer must apply for a work permit, and has to demonstrate that s/he has

searched unsuccessfully for workers within the EEA who possess the necessary skills for the job. To support your application, you will need a written statement from Univer-siteit Maastricht certifying that you are indeed registered as exchange student and that a job will not interfere with the course of your study. This will have to be done after the first exam results have become available, so that we can assess whether you are academically strong enough to handle this extra work.

c) Apart from that, the job must not exceed 10 hours per week. If you find a seasonal job (waiting tables or picking cherries) in the months of June and July you can work full time.

12.2 WorkPermits

Non-EU citizens require a work permit in order to work legally in the Netherlands. Work permits will only be assigned under either of the following conditions:

a) The worker is a student and is applying for a job of less than 10 work hours per week.b) The employer can demonstrate that s/he has searched unsuccessfully for workers

within the EU who possess the necessary skills for the job.c) The worker is a citizen of a newly joined member state of the EU.


P54 P55


Only an employer can apply for a work permit on behalf of its employees. The employer will require the following list of documentation in order to complete the application:

• Photocopy of your passport; • Photocopy of your application for a short-stay visa, MVV (if required) or residence

permit;• Diplomas and certificates; • Copy of the employer’s registration with the Chamber of Commerce; • Labour agreement or research plan; • Statement of the gross monthly salary; • Job description; • A written statement from the university.

NOTE: If you are still waiting for your residence permit, a proof of application for the residence permit is enough to apply for a work permit. The unfortunate reality is that get-ting a work permit takes over a month, and you are not legally allowed to work until the permit is delivered. Planning ahead is vital to securing a good job. Note: working without a work permit can lead to serious troubles for both you and your employer if you are caught, and may result in having your residence permit revoked.

ExceptionsThere are many exceptions to the basic rules for work permits. Many government pro-grammes and special conditions exist to help students and young people get jobs when they need them. An example of these would be the Vacation Visa, which is available to Canadians, Americans, Australians and New Zealanders only, and which allows them a one-time full-time work permit for one year. www.expatica.com is a good start for finding such programmes. Also, contacting the local CWI (public employment office) personally can uncover new opportunities. Also, the University Employment Agency InterUM specialises in finding students jobs within the university where regulations are much less restrictive. See also www.nuffic.nl/immigration for more information.

InsuranceA new health insurance system for curative healthcare for all residents of the Netherlands came into effect on 1 January 2006. Under the new Health Insurance Act (“Zorgverzekeringswet”) all residents and/or employees in the Netherlands are obliged to take out a health insurance. Every health care insurance company in the Netherlands that has stated it will provide services under the Act, has a legal obligation to accept anybody who applies for insurance. For the so-called Basic Insurance (“Basis Verzekering”) you will have to pay a premium to the insurer. This is known as the nominal premium. Whether a foreign student is obliged to take out the Basic (health)Insurance under the Health Insur-ance Act depends on the residence purpose and/or employment situation. The flow chart gives you an indication. Note that according to the law temporary residence is seen as a period of less than three years; this means that you as exchange students do not have to take out this Basic Insurance, even if you are over 30 years of age. The ONLY exception to the rule is if you get a temporary job: in that case you HAVE to take out the Basic Insur-ance: Dutch law requires all residents to have health insurance. Even if you decide to keep your private insurance policy, as a part-time employee you must pay into the national scheme. The size of the monthly contribution depends on your income. As an employee

you will also be insured against the consequences of an accident while at work. Other contributions that will be deducted from your gross wages support the systems that provide disability pay and unemployment benefits. In principle, the employer is obliged to deduct these ‘social security contributions’ from your pay before you get it. When in doubt on whether the new Health Insurance Act applies to you, please contact the Board of Health Insurances via +31 (0)20 79 78 555.

WhattypeofhealthcareinsurancedoIneed?Flowchart for international students in the Netherlands

I also have a job, or I am a trainee/intern and am

getting paid a salary

I am an EU/EEA or Swiss national

I am not an EU/EEA or Swiss national, but I have a residence permit*

I am in the Netherlands for study only

Temporary stay Permanent stay

EUHealthInsurance

CardOlder than

30 yearsUnder 30

years of ageOlder than

30 years

Temporary stay Permanent stay

Privatehealthcareinsurance

Youneedanewbasichealthcareinsurancepolicy


P56 P57


12.3 BSN

For tax reasons, everybody working in the Netherlands must have a BSN (Burger Service Number). Once you have received your residence permit, you are entitled to collect that number at the Belastingdienst (tax office) in Heerlen. Depending on your citizenship, you may be required to have a contract or a letter from an Uitzendbureau ( job agency) before you can apply for a BSN number. Once you have the required paperwork, getting your number only takes about half an hour.

12.4 FindingaJob

Due to a relatively high unemployment rate, the competition for jobs in the Netherlands is somewhat tight. However, foreign students often have distinct advantages in certain areas, particularly in language capacity, that make them desirable workers.

There are basically two ways to search for a job. The first and most obvious is to approach companies personally and offer them your CV. This direct search method works well for large companies, such as the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center, which hires many UM students.

The second way is through an uitzendbureau (temporary job agency). These companies are in the business of connecting workers with employers searching for their particular skills. Maastricht has over a dozen uitzendbureaus. Many of them are concentrated on Grote Gracht, a street between the Vrijthof and the Markt.Also, the UM uitzendbureau InterUM specialises in finding students jobs in and around the University (See section 11.5 for contact information).

The first step to getting a good job is having a good CV. You can have your CV checked by booking an appointment for a Quick Career Advice. For this and other career related services such as workshops, career events, individual guidance or the Career & Informa-tion Centre, please surf to the website of UM Career Services, www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/careerservices. You can also visit an uitzendbureau or check out the advice on www.expatica.com.

12.5 ContactInformation

InterUM BV Randstad Callflex University employment agency Specialised in temporary jobs in native languages.Tongersestraat 22A, Maastricht Wycker Brugstraat 28, Maastricht +31 (0)43- 388 26 88 +31 (0)43-329 17 00

UM Career Services Mise en Place Student Services Centre Akerstraat 20a, Maastricht +31 (0)43-350 03 50 Bonnefantenstraat 2, Maastricht Spoorweglaan 7, Maastricht +31 (0)43-350 01 44+31 (0)43-388 53 88 Job agency for students working

in the service industry. At least minimal knowledge of Dutch required.

www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/ careerservices

Creyf’s Uitzendbureau Stationsstraat 31, Maastricht +31 (0)43-325 66 27

13 StudentLife

Despite the fact that Maastricht does not have a very long history as a university town, it does have a very vibrant student life. Many students join student-associations, fraterni-ties and sororities. They meet up at least once a week at their regular pub to have a beer and talk about the deeper meaning of life, whatever that may be. Two fraternities even run their own pub, which they conveniently named the Uni (short for university), so that their parents would not get worried if they tell them that they spend so much time there. Student life in Maastricht also stands for: lots of parties, going out on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday night (or whatever night you want), spending lots of money in the begin-ning of each month (when Dutch students get their studiefinanciering or study grant) and considerably less in the end. It also stands for going out for a meal in one of the many student-cafés and sitting on the Vrijthof enjoying the sun(in the Netherlands you have to enjoy the sun while you can). At the end of each block, however, many students lock themselves up in the University Library and drink as much coffee as they can handle and try to prepare themselves for the exams as best they can. By that time, everyone will be complaining about the horrors you face as a student. In the following section you can read all about places-to-be, good and cheap restaurants, cinemas, museums and everything else. In short: your guide through student life in Maastricht.

Make sure you have a look at these sites: www.maastricht.nl www.maastrichtrestaurants.nl For interesting articles or news on Maastricht (and the Netherlands), you may want to go to this website for foreigners in Maastricht: www.ejc.nl/crossroads

13.1 Relaxing

BlancheDaelCoffeeLoversCorner Ruiterij/Plein 1992 If you consider yourself a coffee connoisseur, you should visit Coffee Lovers in the Céramique area. They serve a large variety of very good coffees and they have an excellent lunch menu. Coffee Lovers also has two other branches in Maastricht: one in the Visitor’s Centre at Bonnefantenstraat 2, and one in the Selexys Bookstore, which is situated in a beautifully renovated building that used to be a church.

CaféIpanemaAvenue Ceramique 250 Ipenama is a relatively new and trendy café, beautifully situated on the riverside of the river Maas on the ground floor of the Bonnefanten Museum. In addition to its good breakfast and lunch menu, this café also serves fine tapas. You can also sit outside on the terrace.

CaféSjiekSint Pieterstraat 13 This is a bistro, where you can eat delicious regional and other dishes. During the summer months you can also sit outside on the terrace located across the street from the restaurant. For more information about Café Sjiek please go to: www.cafesjiek.nl


P58 P59


CaféTweeKommel 8 This is a nice café near the Fine Arts Academy. A good venue to read one of the several papers and magazines offered here, making this the perfect intellectual getaway.

CaféZuidPlein 1992-15 This bar is situated in the Céramique area, near the Public Library. Here you can have nice drinks and tapas, but note that they are quite expensive. During the summer months it is a perfect place to relax and have a drink, as they have a nice terrace facing the Maas.

CaféZondagWycker Brugstraat 42 This popular, trendy bar is situated in Wyck, right across the Sint Servaas Bridge. This place features a superb atmosphere, great parties, and many people during the weekends. www.cafezondag.nl

DeliBelgeTongersestraat 44 On the front doorstep of the School of Business and Economics, this typically Belgian lunch bar has been serving students’ lunch needs for nearly 13 years. The menu includes over 80 sandwiches and other homemade specialties.

13.2 Bars

CliniqPlatielstraat 9A At night, this is a very popular student bar. During the day you can eat here for a reasonable price. www.cafecliniq.com

DerlonHotelBarOnze Lieve Vrouweplein 6 Located in the foyer of the Derlon Hotel, this bar is popular on weekends, especially on Friday when it sports a DJ. It creates a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. As this place closes early this is an ideal place to get the evening started.

EDDscaféHeggenstraat 3 EDD stands for Eat, Dance & Drinks. You can have breakfast, lunch, dinner, tapas and/or drinks in this café with a special interior. They have a jazz session each Tuesday at 22:15 hrs (open stage). www.edds-cafe.nl

DeFalstaffSt. Amorsplein 6 In the summer this is a great place to be whether you want to sit outside or inside. De Falstaff has a relaxed atmosphere and is ideal if you just want to sit down and chat with your friends. They proudly serve a large assortment of specialty beers and even have a beer menu. www.cafe-falstaff.com/home.htm

TheHighlanderHertogsingel 58c This is the number one bar for most Guesthouse students, regularly packed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays with internationals. With sports on TV (including all the main football matches), parties, good food, cheap prices and open until 02:00 hrs, this bar has some-thing to offer to everyone.

JohnMullinsIrishPubWycker Brugstraat 50A Big Irish Pub, John Mullins boasts a great atmosphere and authentic Irish personnel.There is often live music and it is the Pub if you have a craving for typical Irish stew. Be sure to join the popular quiz night; form a team and compete on a diverse range of sub-jects. There is live music on Thursday or Friday. www.johnmullins.nl

RamblassinBassinkade 6 The Ramblassin is situated in the basin of the small marina of Maastricht. As it is built in a tiny yard cellar it is easy to overlook the place if it wasn’t for the beautiful terrace by the waterfront. Ramblassin is a stylish place with good cocktails, perfect for relaxing, loung-ing and dancing.

TheShamrockBrusselsestraat 49 Another café with an Irish touch. Here you also have the possibility to play pool and arts. The Shamrock is often positively crawling with international students.

TakeFiveBredestraat 14 The Take Five is the typical trendy little spot to hang out, offers fantastic international lunches and good value for your money. A real student café.

TramhalteCannerplein 1This is a rather old-fashioned bar but with a cosy atmosphere. Especially on Monday, it is a great place to enjoy live jazz music. Conveniently for exchange students, this place is relatively close to the main Guesthouse. (Open stage: each Monday from 22:00 hrs ).

DeTweeHeerenPlatielstraat 17-19 Funky music abounds, and Tuesday nights signal the overflow by international students: for inner-city UM students, the Twee Heeren is the place to be. It is also a good place to eat: try the saté with french fries.


P60 P61


Note: this list is by no means exhaustive and the above only gives an indication of popular student bars. Maastricht has around 365 bars so you would spend an entire year exploring them if you try a different one every night!

13.3 Restaurants

CaféCharlemagneOnze Lieve Vrouweplein 24 This place is something totally different. Good dishes, such as the Greek Salad and the Satéhtje Marcus, set it apart from the rest.

GadjahMasRechtstraat 42 One of the best places for Indonesian food, with an excellent price/quality ratio.Check www.gadjahmas.nl

Gio’sCucinaCasalingaVrijthof 29aAccording to some “the best Italian restaurant in the South of the Netherlands” this restaurant serves true Italian dishes and has a very friendly staff. The setup is unusual however: there is no menu (only a waiter’s explanation of the different dishes), you can-not make a reservation and you can only pay cash. Many argue that this adds to the great atmosphere. We leave it up to you to decide.

GrandCafédePerroenVrijthof 34-35 This place is a grand café and restaurant. Different rooms entice its custom-ers with different atmospheres and they serve good food at reasonable prices. www.perroen.nl

MavanSlounTongersestraat 3This is a very affordable restaurant in a student setting.

PreuverijKakeberg 6 Well-known place among students: reasonable dishes for around € 7.-

ReitzMarkt 75 Reitz once won the “best fries in Europe” award and continues to serve fresh, cheap, delicious and undeniably Belgian fries at the marketplace on a daily basis. Be prepared to wait in line on warm days, but rest assured that the wait will be definitely worth it.

TabkeawRechtstraat 102 Tabkeaw is a top class Thai restaurant, serving dishes that are the best in its kind. Be sure to bring enough money since this place is not cheap.

• The Dutch consume an average of 7.7 kilograms of coffee per person per year. This makes the Dutch the fourth biggest coffee drinkers in the world, after Finland, Norway and Sweden.

• 91% of the population (15 years old and over) drinks coffee.

• The Dutch drink an average of 84 litres of beer per person per year.

• There are 1.7 million milk cows in the Netherlands.

• Over half of all milk produced in the Netherlands is turned into cheese.

• The Netherlands is the world’s largest exporter of cheese, butter and powdered milk.

• Ten and a half billion kilograms of milk were supplied to Dutch dairy factories in 2004. Fifty-nine percent of this milk was used to make cheese.

• A smaller part (14 percent) ends up in the shops as fresh milk or a fresch milk product, and about the same amount is processed into powdered milk.

• The remainder of the milk is processed into other dairy products such as condensed milk, butter and cream.


P62 P63


TapasyMasRechtstraat 83 ¡Mejor que en España! This tapas restaurant has it all: a great atmosphere, affordable dishes, delicious food and friendly service. Tapas-lovers cannot skip this place when inMaastricht.

WitloofSt. Bernardusstraat 12 An excellent Belgian restaurant with good atmosphere and very affordable dishes. Due to its popularity, reservation is necessary.

Alsocheckthewebsiteswww.iens.nlandwww.specialbite.nlforinformationandratingsonalmostallrestaurantsinMaastricht.ThewebsitesareavailableinEnglish.

Let’s go out to eat!

One expatriate’s view of life in the Dutch kitchen - don’t take it too seriously

WhenyoudecidetogoouttodinnerinHolland...Do try some of the local delicacies, but don’t expect anything to be very spicy. The Dutch East India company bought and transported spices for centuries, but apparently never brought them to Holland. In fact, garlic is used more often here for repelling vampires than it is in Dutch cooking.Don’t expect Italian restaurants in Amsterdam to serve food that tastes Italian. If you look in the kitchen in most of these places, you’ll find a bunch of Turkish guy strying to make Italian food taste like Dutch food. This procedure will include putting large chunks of carrots in your marinara sauce. In Holland, carrots are also a spice, apparantly. I’ve been to at least fifteen Italian restaurants in Amster-dam, and have only found one where the food was prepared by Italians. I won’t tell you where it is, though, as they are probably doing something illegal. Do expect potatoes to be served with anything you order anywhere. Even in the “Italian” places. I’ve ordered spaghetti bolognaise on more than one occasion, and had it served to me with a side of potatoes. I’ve even had a dinner that included large boiled potatoes as part of the entrecôte, and it came with a side of French fries! Did i mention the Dutch like potatoes? They do.Don’t expect to find a spicy salad dressing anywhere near a Dutch restaurant. The Dutch have four basic salad dressings: mayonnaise, mayonnaise with water, mayonnaise with little flavorless flecks in it, and mayonnaise. Even Dutch pepper is almost without flavor. They generally use white pepper, which is very finely ground, and tastes like sawdust. I believe it’s made from small pieces of plywood, but don’t quote me.

13.4 DanceTillDawn

AllabonneurLeliestraat 5 The so-called “Alla” is a night club, pub and great place to dance. Tuesdays to Thursdays are big student nights. The “Alla” is open daily from 22:00 to 5:00 hrs, making it the perfect after-pub nightspot.

BackstageTongerseweg 57 This is a basement party zone featuring themes and alternative cultures every Thursday and Friday nights. It is located right next to the big supermarket on the Tongerseweg. www.backstage.nu

DeKadansKesselskade 62 Here you find food, live music, dancing, a pub and a café on three stories. Open till 5:00 hrs, this is a nice après-pub alternative to the “Alla.” Sometimes they have student parties, plus salsa dancing every Wednesday night. www.dekadans.nl

MetamorfoosKleine Gracht 42 This cosy café/bar/dance house is located behind the marketplace and is open until 5:00 hrs. The prices are quite student-friendly, as are the DJs and service personnel.

MondialMiddelweg 12 in Beek (Limburg)This large discotheque is quite nice and features parties and events all the time.For more information check www.mondial2000.nl

VersuzSlachthuiskaai 6, Hasselt (Belgium) Located in Belgium, this top-class night club is one of the most happening places around. From celebrity Temptation Island parties to special guest stars like Lumidee, this place is unbelievable. For more information go to www.versuz.be

13.5 Anythingelse?

There is always something else to do if you are tired of movies and going to the bar.Here are a few suggestions.

SnookerCentrumMaastrichtTongerseweg 46 Shoot some pool or snooker with friends.Pone: +31 (0) 43 – 325 48 02

StPietersberg(StPeterhill)Situated behind the police station near the UM inner-city library and between the Tongerseweg and the Maas. Whether you like walking all afternoon, taking a guided tour


P64 P65


through the Maastricht caves, or going on a mysterious night hike, the St Pietersberg is a small piece of wilderness for all nature lovers.

SnowWorld(www.snowworld.nl)Situated in Landgraaf, Snow World is only a half hour train-ride away and offers year round snow sports. No previous experience is required; try skiing, snowboarding, or just ride down the slopes on a tube. Whatever you do it is guaranteed to be a great day of fun. Opening hours in the summer are from 9:00 to 23:00 hrs. Check the webpage for opening hours.Getting to Landgraaf by public transport is easy: take a train from Maastricht to Heerlen. When you leave Heerlen station, take bus 25, direction Gracht.

IceSkatingRinkKummenaedestraat 45, Geleen Skating is one of the most popular sports in the Netherlands and any exchange student should have tried it least once while in this country. Located in Geleen (around 15minutes by train from Maastricht) the sports centre Glanerbrook hosts SouthLimburg’s 400 metre ice skating rink. Phone: +31 (0)46-474 69 88

SwimmingPoolsSwimming is not only exercise. Grab some friends and head to the pool for a nice day out. Opening hours and locations are available in the section on Sports earlier in this Handbook.

RockClimbingGymStadionbaan 52, Heerlen Neoliet, the rock climbing gym in Heerlen, offers top quality rock climbing facilities to people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are a pro looking for a place to practice or a scared-of-heights über beginner, they have a programme fit for you. www.neoliet.nl

Thermae2000Health spa; Cauberg 27, Valkenburg aan de Geul Not far from Maastricht is a natural spa, flowing with natural spring water. Take a couple of hours and relax, swim around, get a massage or simply relax! Reasonably priced programmes are available. Check under www.thermae.nl

HollandCasinoKuurpark Cauberg 28, Valkenburg aan de Geul Tel: +31 (0)43-609 96 00 Next to Thermae 2000 is Limburgs state-owned Casino, a great place for an entertaining evening at the gambling tables. You find further information under www.hollandcasino.nl/valkenburg

ShoppinginLiègeLiège, one of the cultural centres of Belgium, is just a 25 minute train ride away. Why not take the afternoon or evening off and indulge in some Belgian culture or enjoy lower taxes while shopping for the things you need? See also www.liege.be/cadreslg/cadwelco.htm

MountainBicycleRentalsAt Courtens, Calvariestraat 16, you can rent mountain bicycles for the day. Explore the beautiful Dutch and Belgian countryside on the back of a novelty bicycle. Rent is € 8.50 per day. Another possibility for rental is the bicycle shop at the train station “Aon de Stasie”. They rent out good mountain bicycles for € 17.50 per day (and demand a deposit of € 100). It is worth buying a map at the VVV (see appendix 1) with eight good mountain bicycle trails for all levels of experience.

13.6 Cinemas(www.bioscoop.nl)

Show your student ID card to obtain a discount!

MinervaBioscoopMaastrichtWilhelminasingel 39 Phone: +31 (0)43-325 35 65 Minerva is Maastrichts main cinema showing all the major movie productions.Check out the Sneak Preview (see below) every Wednesday for € 5.00 (www.sneakpoint.nl).

FilmtheaterLumièreBogaardenstraat 40b Phone: +31 (0)43-321 40 80 Cult/ Art movies

SneakPreviewThe cinemas in Maastricht offer a sneak preview. The sneak preview is a movie that is not out yet in the cinemas, so you get to see the première. There is a catch, however. Usually you do not know what movie you are going to see until you are watching it. So if you want to take the chance, go ahead and let yourself be surprised!

13.7 Theatre

StudiumGeneraleLectures and debates, Theatre, Music, Comedy for studentsSee 7.6 (SSC)

TheateraanhetVrijthofVrijthof 47Phone: +31 (0)43-350 55 55 Beautiful theatre & good shows. Leftover tickets can be bought right before the show for reduced prices. Take your student ID card with you to get a reduction. www.theateraanhetvrijthof.nl

LaBonbonnièreAchter de comedie 1 Phone: +31 (0)43-350 09 35 Theatre, variety, cabaret. Great atmosphere! If you want a ticket, get there early. www.bonbonniere.nl


P66 P67


KumulusTheaterHerbenusstraat 89 Phone: +31 (0)43-350 56 56Kumulus is a centre for arts. You can attend over 150 different art courses, which are facilitated by professional artists, musicians and dancers. www.kumulus.nl

LössTheaterAchter de Barakken 31a Phone: +31 (0)43-325 39 33The Löss Theater is a theatre café where small concerts and acts are performed.

13.8 Museums

BonnefantenMuseum(www.bonnefanten.nl)Avenue Céramique 250Phone: +31 (0)43-329 01 90The world famous building of Aldo Rossi. Archaeology, old and modern art. The bul-let shaped tower has several strange nicknames. The Museum has a special offer for students: for € 3,75 you will get access to the Bonnefantenmuseum until the end of this calendar year, as well as to the special activities that the museum will organize on Sunday (English-spoken). If you want to make use of this offer, you have to apply for the PIM pass: go to www.passinmaastricht.nl or check with SSC.Open Tuesday- Sunday : 11:00 -17:00 hrs.

NaturalHistoryMuseum(www.nhmmaastricht.nl)De Bosquetplein 7 Phone: +31 (0)43-350 54 90 The museum outlines the natural history of South Limburg. Modern displays offer an insight into both the recent and distant past. Among the museums highlights are the remains of enormous Mosasaurs and Giant Turtles found in marlstone at the St Pieters-berg caverns. Open: Monday-Friday 10:00 -17:00 hrs., Saturday-Sundays 14:00 -17:00 hrs.

FormoreinformationaboutactivitiesinMaastrichtcheckthefollowingsites:www.maastrichtnet.nl www.maastrichtweb.com www.vvvmaastricht.nl

Bonnefanten Museum


P68 P69


14 Shopping

Generally,allstoreshavethefollowingopeninghours:

Monday: 13:00-18:00hrsTuesday: 9:00-18:00hrsWednesday: 9:00-18:00hrsThursday: 9:00-21:00hrsFriday: 9:00-18:00hrsSaturday: 9:00-17:00hrs.Sunday: CLOSED

Koopzondag(ShoppingSunday)Generally, the shops are closed on Sundays. However, on Koopzondag the shops will be open on Sundays from 12:00 -17:00 hrs. In Maastricht, the first Sunday of the month is Koopzondag. The shops indicate with posters on the door when it will be Koopzondag. Not all the shops participate in the Koopzondag, so make sure to look for the sign on the door whether or not the shop will be open.

14.1 Supermarkets

Most supermarkets are open Monday through Saturday from 8:00/8:30 – 20:00 hrs,some (such as ALDI) close at 18:00 hrs. There are usually extended hours on Thursdays and limited hours on Saturdays. Supermarkets are closed on Sunday, although some super-markets are open on koopzondag. Needless to say that alternative opening hours apply on holidays. Always check the notice on the entrance of your local supermarket.

AlbertHeijn(AH)Albert Heijn is a supermarket with a lot of different products and good quality. The prices, however, tend to be a bit above average. Buy the Euro-shopper brand if you are on a bud- get. AH is located in the shopping mall “Brusselse Poort” (near the main Guesthouse). There is also a branch in Helmstraat, near the Vrijthof, on Plein 1992 (near Centre Céramique), and there is a small “to-go” shop in the station.

C1000Same as AH this supermarket is situated in Brusselse Poort. It has a large assortment of products but is cheaper than Albert Heijn.

JanLindersJan Linders is another supermarket, in price and product comparable to C1000. You can find Jan Linders at Tongerseweg 57.

ALDISituated near the main guesthouse (Volksplein 34), Aldi is one of the cheapest super-markets with a small assortment. You will also find an Aldi on Plein 1992 (near Centre Céramique).

Stokstraat


P70 P71


JumboThis store is located in the basement of the newly constructed “Mosae Forum” shopping area. Its assortment and prices are comparable to C1000.

In addition, look out for authentic international food stores, selling Chinese, Indian, and Middle-Eastern ingredients. You can find these stores on the Markt and near the station.

14.2 Ingredients

The translation of some ingredients you can buy in the supermarket and prepare a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner!

English DutchSalt ZoutPepper PeperBread Brood(white/brown/wholemeal/multiple grains) (wit/bruin/volkoren/meergranen) Sugar SuikerButter BoterSugar Suiker Eggs EierenMilk MelkPotatoes AardappelenHamburger meat/ minced meat Gehakt (rund/varken)Carrot WortelPineapple AnanasOrange SinaasappelStrawberry Aardbei Endive AndijvieCheese KaasPeanut butter Pindakaas (no, this is not peanutcheese!

Note that the Dutch peanutbutter is thicker than the American version)

Beans BonenCookies (American)/ Biscuits (British) Koekjes

See also www.smartphrase.com/Dutch/dutch.shtml

14.3 Marketday

On Wednesday and Friday mornings, the market square is full of stalls and tents selling fresh products, meats, cheeses and lots of fun merchandise as well. The Wednesday market is particularly known for its cloth and fabrics and the Friday market is renowned for its excellent fish.

Prices are generally comparable to the Aldi, the food is farm-fresh and the atmosphere is far nicer than in a supermarket. Although prices are not as tightly fixed as in a depart-ment store, haggling is generally not acceptable. Still, there is always a bargain to be

found and the more you buy, the cheaper it gets. The market is only open from 08:00 to 13:00 hrs, so be early!

14.4 Bookstores

14.4.1 SelexyzdominicanenIf you cannot find the books you need at the FAME bookstore, you can always go to the selexyz dominicanen bookstore. There you will find the required literature, but also ad-ditional literature in the field of management, marketing etc. As a student you do not, unfortunately, get a discount.

Address: Dominikanerkerkstraat 1, Maastricht Phone: +31 (0)43-321 08 25 E-mail: [email protected]

Opening hours:Monday 10:00 hrs -18:00 hrs Tuesday through Friday 09:00 hrs - 18:00 hrs Thursday 09:00 - 21:00 hrs Saturday 09:00 - 18:00 hrsSunday: 12:00 hrs – 17:00 hrs

14.4.2 Books4LifeIn April 2009, a new second-hand university bookstore called Books 4 Life opened in the beautiful historic cellar of the Maastricht Graduate School of Governance, Maastricht University, Kapoenstraat 2, 6211 KW Maastricht.

You can buy second-hand textbooks as well as travel guides, dictionaries, novels etc. All proceeds are donated to charity: 25% for Oxfam Novib, 25% for Amnesty International and 50% to UM-related charities. You can also donate any books you don’t need any more to B4L. The store operates with the help of volunteers and the organisation is always looking for enthusiastic students who are willing to donate part of their time. You can help out in the store or by participating in the organisation (designing posters, organising events etc).

BasicFacts• The money raised from book sales goes to Charity. A maximum of 10% of the income

from book sales is reinvested in running and expanding the shops. • The books that sold have all been Donated to the shop. There is no financial compensa-

tion for the books that are given to the organisation. • They work entirely withVolunteers. None of the shop assistants or other members of

the organisation are provided a salary for their efforts. • You can expect to find a huge and varied selection of second-hand Books. They also sell

a few related items, like DVDs, board games and jigsaw puzzles, but the main focus is books.

• All of the charities and projects that they support work towards the promotion ofHumanRights and PovertyReduction across the globe.


P72 P73


AimsBooks 4 Life strives towards the following three main goals: • To develop a new mindset nationwide towards the value of unwanted, second-hand

goods, both as reusable and affordable objects for the domestic market and as a source of income for charitable work at home and abroad.

• To help students and others get active in their community by showing them that voluntary work can be convenient, enjoyable and highly rewarding – a lifelong lesson.

• To offer students the opportunity to gain valuable experience in running their own small business, while at the same time allowing them to gain an affinity with human rights and poverty reduction issues, helping to produce competent and socially aware graduates.

For more information please refer to the website www.books4lifemaastricht.nl or email B4L at [email protected]

14.4.3 www.Eduboox.nlThe website for finding your 2nd hand textbook, career opportunities and local discount!!

www.eduboox.nl has started as a student company at the University of Maastricht and turned out to be a Big Success for all students in Maastricht. Now it’s an independent website, ideal for students who want to make the best of their time as a student. The website is developed around three main subjects.

The first subject is 2ndHandTextbooks. www.eduboox.nl gives students the possibility to post their books on the website for FREE. Other students can visit the website and look for books they need for their next block. The actual selling and buying of the books is very easy, because Eduboox focuses on the local market. When finding a book on the website it’s very easy to meet up with the seller in front of the faculty or an other place you prefer. Because the books in the database are all from Maastricht and near surrounding, selling and buying can go very fast, easy and cheap. You can save up to 60% from the original price of a new book when buying on www.eduboox.nl.

The second subject is Discounts from various companies in Maastricht. Eduboox arranges the best discounts in town in many different sectors. Here you can think of restaurants, bars, driving lessons, fitness, clothing, electronics, etc. When you can’t find the discount you want, you can always suggest it to Eduboox and we will try to arrange it for you.

The third subject isCareerOpportunities during and after your studies. Many students work during their studies and Eduboox tries to arrange jobs that you can combine with your studies. Graduates can succeed at Eduboox as well, Eduboox helps students orientate themselves on the job market by working together with partners who are specialised in career development and recruiting graduates for different companies.

www.eduboox.nl can make your life as a student even more fun, much easier, more suc-cessful and especially cheaper. So if you want your ‘up to date’ textbooks cheaper, find very interesting discount or find jobs during and after your studies, visit www.eduboox.nl today and profit from everything Eduboox has to offer.

14.5 Departmentstores

V&DBig department store in the city centre (Grote Staat 5/15). Clothes, food, furnishing,books, cosmetics etc.

BijenkorfIn 2003 this rather upmarket department store opened its doors in Maastricht.Although this is more for people with quite a bit of money to spend it is definitely worth a visit. Please note that the Bijenkorf is actually part of the same building as V&D, but it has a separate entrance (in Maastrichter Brugstraat and Achter het Vleeshuis).

HEMASmall department store situated in the city centre Grote Staat 10 and in the Brusselse-Poort 54. Cheaper than V&D.

IKEAThe most popular furniture chain in Europe is situated in Heerlen, a quick train ride from Maastricht station. In de Cramer 142 6412 PM Heerlen. Information line: +31 (0)900-235 45 32 (€ 0.10/min from within the Netherlands).

KwantumIf Ikea is too far, or if you are looking for a more down-to-earth alternative, Kwantum, situated in the Brusselse Poort offers lights, mattresses, tables, bed-sheets and anything else you may need to furnish your new student room.

BlokkerThis store will provide dishes, pots and pans, and bathroom supplies, all of those little things that you need to settle in to a new home. Blokker is situated in Brusselse Poort, Plein 1992 and in the city centre.

XenosThis recently-moved furniture/novelty/grocery store has almost anything your heart desires and at a price that your wallet can afford. The Xenos is located on the first floor of shopping centre “Entre Deux”.

MediaMarktThis is a large electronics store where you can buy nearly everything from DVDs to refrigerators. It is located in Wijck near the Maas (Franciscus Romanusweg).

KruidvatAlthough not a department store, the Kruidvat is an excellent place to find all kinds of products ranging from personal hygiene to the development of film rolls for low prices. There are several branches in Maastricht: Grote Staat, Markt, Mosae Forum shopping-center and Wyckerbrugstraat.


P74 P75


15 Communication

15.1 DutchLanguage

Dutch, the language of the Netherlands, belongs to the West Germanic branch of the Indo-European family and is quite closely related to German and English. Here you can find some Dutch vocabulary to help you around:

English DutchYes Ja No NeeGood morning GoedemorgenGood afternoon GoedemiddagGood evening GoedenavondGoodbye Tot ziens See you later Tot straks1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Eén, twee, drie, vier, vijf6, 7, 8, 9, 10 Zes, zeven, acht negen, tienThanks BedanktThere you are/please AlstublieftEnjoy your meal Eet smakelijkGood Goed (about food “lekker”)I am sorry Neemt u mij niet kwalijk/”sorry” or pardonCould you tell me.. Kunt u mij misschien zeggen……What, where, when Wat, waar, wanneerMay I have the bill please? Mag ik de rekening alstublieft?May I order? Mag ik bestellen?Open, closed Open, geslotenNo entry Verboden toegangNo parking Niet parkerenBus stop BushaltePharmacy ApotheekDoctor DokterDentist TandartsPost office, bank Postkantoor, bankStation StationPolice, fire department Politie, brandweerHospital ZiekenhuisBeer, wine, liquor Bier, wijn, likeurTea, coffee Thee, koffieNewspaper KrantMagazine TijdschriftI love you Ik hou van jou!You are handsome/pretty Lekker ding!

See also www.smartphrase.com/Dutch/dutch.shtml

EtosDrugstore where you can buy everything you need for personal hygiene, such as sham-poos and deodorants, but also cosmetics and over the counter drugs such as painkillers etc. ETOS can be found in the Spilstraat (city centre) and Brusselse Poort.

14.6 ShoppingCentres

In addition to the many shops in the city centre of Maastricht you will also find two shopping centres, EntreDeux and MosaeForum. Both are newly established structures, and most of the shops opened at the end of 2006. Although you will find a Kruidvat there most shops are part of a wide range of stores that are not readily found anywhere else in the area.

14.7 VoltageTransformer

Exchange students coming from countries that have a different voltage system than the European (220 V) can buy a voltage transformer at the shop HandyMan in the Nieuw-straat. The devices that they sell are both-ways transforming, but only up to 80 watt. Hence, a laptop or shaver works with this, but not your stereo for example. Prices are approximately € 60.


P76 P77


15.2 Phones

Making a phone call in or to the Netherlands is quite simple. Here are the basic rules for recognising phone numbers.

A typical phone number in Maastricht looks like this: +31 (0)43-329 17 82 Country code +31 (the Netherlands) Area code (0)43 (Maastricht) Number 324 58 63

In order to dial this number from WITHIN the Netherlands, you would leave out the coun-try code (+31) and include the zero: 043 - 324 58 63 To dial this number from OUTSIDE the Netherlands, start with two zeros, and then dial the country code, and SKIP the zero in brackets: 0031 43 324 58 63

These rules are the same for mobile phones, where a number would read: +31 (0)6 - 24 35 86 36

Decoding phone numbers• +31 Any number starting with 0031 is a phone number in the Netherlands. • +32 Any number starting with 0032 is a phone number in Belgium • 043 All numbers with a 043 area code is a Maastricht land line • 06 All numbers starting with a 06 are mobile phone numbers. • 0900 These numbers will charge you extra for calling. They are often used for informa-

tion lines, as well as government offices. A recording will tell you before you are connected how much you will be charged each minute for calling that number.

• 0800 These numbers do not charge, but if you call from a mobile it may still cost you minutes, so be careful.

Note: All phone calls (including local calls) cost money. Even in the Guest House, when call-ing one of your neighbours, you are charged. Moreover, local calls, regional calls or calls to mobile phones and foreign countries all have different rates.

15.3 Payphones

To call abroad from the Netherlands, dial 00 followed by the international country code. Most public phone boxes require telephone cards of € 5, € 10, € 11 from the major telephone operator KPN. These are available at post offices, news agents and bookshops. Confusingly, public phones at train stations work with a different card (from Telfort). These phones accept both coins and cards, available at the station (€ 4.50).

Note: If you would like to have your own phone, we advise you to buy a so called prepaid mobile phone. There are several shops in the city centrum where you can by prepaid phones.

15.4 Fax

Sending a fax for private purposes is not possible within the university. However, you can send your faxes at the central Post Office, Statenstraat 4 (near the Vrijthof Square).

Prices of sending a fax depend on the size of your document and the destination to which you want it sent. If you want to send a fax at the Post Office, you need a telephone card. Make sure your card holds enough units.

Note (for exchange students): If you have to send a fax to your home university concerning your exchange in Maastricht, it is possible to send it at your International Relations Office.

15.5 E-mail

You can check your email at the university, but you can also go to Centre Céramique (the public library located on Avenue Céramique 50). Centre Céramique offers free use of a high speed wireless internet connection. Bring your own laptop to enjoy the benefits of access to the library’s databases and working at a quiet work station. You do not have to be a member of the library.

15.6 Postpackages

If you would like to send some luggage to your home country you can go to one of the post offices.

OpeninghoursSTATENSTRAAT 4, 6211 TB Maastricht STATIONSTRAAT 60, 6221 BR Maastricht (Near the Vrijthof Square) (Near the Central Station)Monday 10:00 - 18:00 hrs. Monday 12:00 - 17:30 hrs. Tuesday 09:00 - 18:00 hrs. Tuesday 09:00 - 17:30 hrs. Wednesday 09:00 - 18:00 hrs. Wednesday 09:00 - 17:30 hrs. Thursday 09:00 - 18:00 hrs. Thursday 09:00 - 17:30 hrs. Friday 09:00 - 18:00 hrs Friday 09:00 - 17:30 hrs. Saturday 10:00 - 13:30 hrs. Saturday 10:00 - 16:00 hrs. Sunday CLOSED Sunday CLOSED

BRUSSELSEPOORT 5, 6216 CE Maastricht(Near the main guesthouse)Monday 11:00 - 17:30 hrs. Tuesday 09:00 - 17:30 hrs. Wednesday 09:00 - 17:30 hrs. Thursday 09:00 - 17:30 hrs. Friday 09:00 - 17:30 hrs. Saturday 10:00 - 13:30 hrs. Sunday CLOSED

Sending international mail is divided according to destination: within Europe or the rest of the world. It is possible to send your packages with a Standard Service, a Priority Service or an Extra Fast or Extra Secure Service. The cost and duration for your package to arrive depends on the destination and on the chosen service.

There are special low rates if you would like to send your books (2-5 kg). Please refer to the post office for more information about this.


P78 P79


PackageswithinandoutsideEuropeAs long as the package is below 2kg the prices of the “Internationaal Pakket Basis” apply:

Europe2009 Priority Standard0-500 gr € 6.16 € 5.92 500-2000 gr € 11.55 € 9.62

PackagesoutsideEuropeThe costs for packages that need to be sent outside Europe and that weigh less than 2kg can be found in the tariff called ‘Internationaal Pakket Basis’.

OutsideEurope2009 Priority Standard0-500 gr € 10.45 € 7.40 500-2000 gr € 19.95 € 17.76

For all other tariffs please check : www.tntpost.nl

ReceivingpackagesinEuropeFor sending a package to the Netherlands, Dutch Customs have the following regulations:http://www.douane.nl/particulier/internetaankopen/en/internetaankopen-03.html

On the following site you can calculate the tariff (import duties) for importing certain goods to the European Union:http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/customs/customs_duties/declared_goods/index_en.htm

Please also be aware that certain package companies may charge these or other fees when the package is delivered. Check with your local post office or chosen delivery service for specific information.

15.7 Importantphonenumbers

112 General emergency number for alerting police, fire department and ambulance

0900 8844 General police number

0900 9292 Information on public transport in the Netherlands, including door-to-door itineraries

0900 9296 Information on international train travel

1888 Directory Enquiry

0900 8418 International directory enquiries

0800 0101 Request collect call from the Netherlands to telephone number abroad

+31 (0)43-388 37 06 International Relations Office of the School of Business and Economics

+31 (0)43-388 44 44 Emergency number (after office hours) for exchange students of the School of Business and Economics only

+31 (0)6-45 49 09 56 International Relations Office of the Faculty of Psychology (emergency number)

+31 (0)43-388 15 24 International Relations Office of the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences (emergency number)

+31 (0)43-388 54 70 Office of Student Affairs, University College. UCM students can contact this office in case of emergency.


P80 P81


The ‘Hoeg Brögk’

APPENDIX1

OfficialInstitutions

The Netherlands often appears to be a sea of red tape and bureaucracy. In order to make your way safely through this ocean of confusion, here are a few places and definitions that could prove useful.

AliensPoliceThe Aliens Police deal with Immigration procedures and controls. Although they used to distribute residence permits and work permits, they are now primarily focused on immigration controls. The Aliens police are not involved in registration, or other licenses or permits. For registration with the city, you must go to the Gemeente Maastricht City Hall Maastricht at Mosae Forum 106211 DW Maastricht

For residence permit issues please check UM’s visa office via [email protected]

ANWBANWB is a nationwide organisation that offers technical assistance to car drivers. If you plan to drive in The Netherlands or own a Dutch car, you must buy a membership before receiving services. ANWB does NOT deal with licenses or driving permits for internation-als. This is done by the Gemeente Maastricht (city hall Maastricht).Address ANWB: Wycker Brugstraat 24, Maastricht

BelastingdienstThe Dutch tax office distributes Burger Service Numbers, which are required to work and paytaxes in the Netherlands. Tax information can be found at the Maastricht office, but to get a BSN-number, all students must go to Heerlen to the central office Phone: 0800-0543

GemeenteMaastrichtCity Hall of Maastricht. Gemeente Maastricht deals with a wide variety of legal and bureaucratic issues. The most common for students are registration at the city and driver’s licenses. They do not issue residence permits!Address: Mosae Forum 106211 DW Maastricht (at the market).Phone: +31 (0)43 – 350 40 00

VVVThe VVV provides tourist information and some travel advice. They will be able to help in finding your way around Maastricht, onto busses, to cultural events or with anything tourist-related.

Address: Kleine staat 1 (Het Dinghuis) andWycker Brugstraat 24, Maastrichtwww.vvvmaastricht.nl


P82 P83


APPENDIX2

InformationSources

If you are looking for information that is not available in this Handbook, here are some suggestions as to where to find it.

StudyGuideEach Faculty has a Study Guide (University College: Course Catalogue). The Studyguide/course catalogue is the definitive information source for all academic issues such as schedules, grade requirements, examination rules etc. The Study guide is only available on ELEUM.

EleUMEleUM, used throughout the university, contains constantly updated information and announcements for students. Check there for any university related issues.eleum.unimaas.nl

StudentServicesThe Student Services Centre offers a number of services and support with regard to admission and registration, visa and scholarships, student guidance, student housing, sports, culture and spiritual guidance.

Visiting address: Bonnefantenstraat 2 SSC website: www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/sscTelephone number: +31 (0)43 388 53 88 E-mail: [email protected]

InformationDeskEach Faculty has its own information desk where you can ask about Faculty related issues. Questions about course schedules, departments, rules and regulations with in the Faculty can be asked at the information desk.

GeneralCounsellors/AcademicCounsellorsFaculties and Student Services provide student advisors and a student dean to help stu-dents navigate the university as well as the city of Maastricht.Check their contact information and office hours at the information desk and make an appointment.Student Deans Office: Bonnefantenstraat 2 – ask at the information desk. Office Hours are Tuesday: 14:00 -16:00 hrs.

Onze Lieve Vrouwe Plein

APPENDIX3

SocialCalendar2009-2010

In addition to the Academic Calendar, UM also has a full and exciting Social Agenda.Here you find a calendar to help you organise your social time throughout the year. Some public and university events are already labelled (see chapter 10 for details of social events and chapter 5 for sport events). The rest you will have to find and fill in yourself! Good luck!

31October Halloween (not a day off)5December Sinterklaas (not a day off)28December2009- 3January2010 Christmas holidays25-26December Christmas1January New Year’s Day5April Easter Monday13-16February Carnaval30April Koninginnedag (Queen’s Day)4 May Memorial Day (not a day off)5May Liberation Day24May Whit Monday


P84 P85


SocialCalendar2009-2010

August3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

‘Inkom UM’Low-

LandsPreuve nemint

September31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

Oktoberfest München

October28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Oktoberfest München

November26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

December23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

JIM

Winterland Vrijthof

December January21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

Holiday Holiday

Winterland Vrijthof

January February18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

February March15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

Car-naval

TEFAF

March April15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

TEFAF

April May12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

May June10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6

Pink-pop

June July8 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4

Rock Werchter

July Aug5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1


P86 P87


NotesNotes


P88 P89


NotesNotes


P90

Notes

Student Handbook 2009-2010

Documents

Transcript of Student Handbook 2009-2010