Do’s and Don’ts of Hospiteren: A Guide for Students in Groningen
Do’s and Don’ts of Hospiteren: A Guide for Students in Groningen
Finding a room in Groningen can be challenging, and many student houses organize "hospiteeravonden" (interview evenings) to select new roommates. If you’re a student unfamiliar with this process, don’t worry! Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to help you navigate hospiteren successfully.
Do's
✅ Be Yourself – The main goal of hospiteren is for current housemates to find someone who fits well with the group. Show your personality and be friendly!
✅ Prepare Your Introduction – You’ll likely be asked to introduce yourself. Keep it short but engaging—mention your studies, hobbies, and what makes you a great housemate.
✅ Ask Questions – Show interest in the house and your potential roommates by asking about the house culture, cleaning schedule, or shared activities.
✅ Be On Time – Arriving late can give a bad first impression. If the hospiteeravond is online, ensure you have a stable internet connection.
✅ Follow Up – If you really liked the house, consider sending a polite follow-up message thanking them for the opportunity.
Don'ts
❌ Don’t Be Too Quiet or Too Dominant – Try to strike a balance between being engaged and letting others speak. Hospiteren is about finding a good group dynamic.
❌ Don’t Oversell Yourself – You don’t need to list every achievement—just focus on why you’d be a good fit for the house.
❌ Don’t Be Too Picky – While you should look for a house that suits you, being too demanding may reduce your chances of getting selected.
❌ Don’t Forget to Read the Listing Carefully – Make sure you understand the house rules and what they are looking for before applying.
❌ Don’t Get Discouraged – It may take multiple hospiteeravonden before you find the right match. Stay positive and keep applying!
By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll improve your chances of finding the perfect student home in Groningen. Good luck!