Although February in many respects seems a copy of the terrible month of January, there are some bright lights at the horizon. Paula Dubbink recommends some events to start the second month of the year in a good mood.
Rejoice! The most dreadful month of the year – whether scientifically proven or not, I don’t care – is over. January brings nothing but thoughts about a Christmas that is already over and a Spring that is not yet there, plus cold, wind and muddy snow.
February brings…well, usually more of the same, but at least Spring is coming a little bit closer and since last week the new semester has really headed off. Yes, that means that you have to get up early for lectures, but it also means that Lund’s crazy student life has woken up of its hibernation.
Do you like to get to know (even) more people and do you like board games? Every Monday the International Office organizes a Game Night. Location is their basement at the Stora Algatan 4. You don’t have to sign up, but there is a limited number of places.
In for something more serious? On Wednesday night, the Association for Forein Affairs hosts a lecture by Thomas Van Hare, who has worked extensively at the Pentagon and at the White House. He will lecture on the process of stabilization and nation-building in countries after a period of war, in which he has been involved both in Iraq and Afghanistan. That promises a night for thought and discussion! Location: Athen in the AF-Building, Sandgatan 2. The lecture starts at 7 PM.
If you want to get to know some ‘real’ Swedes, you might want to join for the event of ESN and the International Desk. On Wednesday night, they organize a potluck dinner at a local school. Both pupils and their families will be waiting to meet international students, while enjoying the food that everybody takes along. A perfect opportunity to experience Swedish culture and – who knows – practice some lines of Swedish or teach your home language to a Swedish kid? The event is for free – you only have to bring some food to the potluck – and you don’t have to be an ESN member to join. (But if there are too many participants, ESN members will have priority.) In case you cannot make it to the potluck, you can still sign up to meet a local Swedish Family through the ‘Friendly Family Program’. More information can be found through the link.
Still down by the winter here? Go to the English Comedy Night at Västgöta Nation, Tornavägen 19, on Friday. Stand-up comedians from all over the world will improvise in English from 21.30 onwards, but the bar already opens at 8 PM. Buy your ticket in advance (on weekdays between 11 and 13 hrs) and you’ll only pay 50 SEK. Only for Studentlund members.
Even if there’s no real reason to celebrate, the coming of a new month can be made into one. Happy February, folks!
