Exciting City-Wide Puzzle Tour Introduces Students to Apeldoorn

For the September academic block, the Municipality of Apeldoorn kicked things off with a lively and interactive introduction day, designed to give first-year students from Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Aventus, and Wittenborg a warm welcome. The day was packed with activities, including a city-wide puzzle tour, helping students not only get to know each other but also discover the unique charm of Apeldoorn.

Over 250 enthusiastic students explored the city's vibrant centre, solving puzzles, completing challenges, and interacting with local entrepreneurs.  

First-year students participated in a joint introductory event, where they were organised into teams to explore the city, answer questions, and complete assignments. Prizes were awarded for creativity and performance, with participants receiving Apeldoorn-themed gifts that supported local charities.

Students were encouraged to appoint a team captain, wear comfortable shoes, and bring essential items for the day. Through the puzzle tour, which included photo tasks and trivia about the city, students also had the chance to meet local entrepreneurs and learn more about Apeldoorn.

The hope is that this introduction will inspire students to visit the city centre more often.

Alexandra Kukhtina, a student and External Relations & Events Administrator (intern) at Wittenborg, was invited to participate in the introduction video, alongside a Saxion student and Nick Derks.

Her advice for first-year students? “It’s important to be active from day one and chase opportunities – until the day they start chasing you!”

This introduction day followed Wittenborg’s own orientation week, where new students had the chance to learn about the school’s staff, infrastructure, and facilities while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. The programme included workshops on academic writing, immigration procedures for students studying in the Netherlands (or in Munich, Germany), career development, and an English assessment for all bachelor’s and master’s students.

The week culminated in an introductory lunch at each location, providing an opportunity for students and staff to meet and connect, just before classes began for the September academic block on 2 September.

WUP 16/09/2024 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press