The chair of the Reception Committee talks about the introduction
He is not just a fifth-term medical student. Artem also holds the position of chair of the Reception Committee, making him one of the many students who helped organise the introduction for autumn 2024. Here, he talks about everything from what an introduction entails, Karolinska Institutet’s student unions, and his tips for students who have just started a programme at KI.
First things first: what is an introduction at KI?
Starting university is a major life change for many. To make it less stressful, the Medical Association’s (MF) Reception Committee (MU) organises an introduction for all programmes, except for the dentistry and dental hygiene programmes. The Dental Association (OF) organises a separate introduction for new students in those programmes. These introductions are usually full of social activities of different sorts aimed at building new friendships, learning to navigate the campus, reducing anxiety about starting studies, and most importantly, having fun!
What happens for new students at the introduction?
The week before the semester starts, MU organises a more general introduction where students from all programmes can meet each other and get to know KI and MF. The following week generally continues with a more programme-specific introduction by the different sections in MF. We try to organise events that suit all new students, ranging from walks in Stockholm to more festive evening events.
Our latest introduction was quite grand! More than twice as many students than we had expected – just over 500 participated on the first day. We had activities almost every day and made sure all new students got to know each other, the campus, and Stockholm a bit better.
Artem’s three best tips for new KI students
- Take it easy! It might be stressful at first, but remember that students before you have managed, and students after you will too. You are not alone!
- Find a balance between studies and spare time. Have free weekends, do things after the last lecture, and meet friends! (I have recently started road cycling, which is incredibly relaxing after a long day.)
- Participate in social student activities!
What is your role in the introduction organisation?
My current role is chair of MU, and I have had it for the past two introductions. In practice, this means planning the introduction with my board and coordinating it with other sections and KI. Despite all the late nights after studies, procrastination, and last-minute solutions, it was well worth it when we got to meet all the new students!
Can you tell us about KI’s student unions?
KI has two student unions, the medical association called Medicinska Föreningen or MF and the dental association called Odontologiska Föreningen or OF. The unions oversee the education provided and offer many social activities you can get involved in, such as the introduction, which is a lot of fun!
How is student life in Stockholm?
I think student life in Stockholm is great! Sure, you might not be as fully embraced by it as in more typical student cities, but if you get involved a little, it’s like a whole world opens up, with lots of fun things to participate in and wonderful people to meet.