Celebrating 12 Years of the RSU International Student Association
The Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) International Student Association (ISA) commemorated a significant milestone on Friday 3 November – its 12th anniversary as a central entity within the university's vibrant community. The first international students came to study at RSU 33 years ago, but ISA was established in 2011 with a primary mission to supporting and enhancing the experiences of international students at RSU. Over the years, the association has evolved, expanded, and played a crucial role in fostering a sense of unity, cultural exchange, and academic support among students.
Left to right: Lucas Risters (ISA President), with SP Board (Līga Pūsepa, Luīze Monta Remese, Alise Luīze Bērziņa, Lība Vinšteina, Paula Kārkliņa, Inga Barvika)
ISA's inception dates back to a collaborative effort between the RSU Student Union (RSU SP) board and a group of international students, including pivotal figures like Massensen Izem Ayati. Initially emerging as an extension of the RSU SP, ISA swiftly evolved, expanding its initiatives and board to cater more comprehensively to the growing international student community – this semester there are more than 2,500 international medical, dental, and social sciences students from 78 different countries at RSU, which is almost a third of the student body. ISA stays actively engaged with university authorities, demonstrating a commitment to bettering the academic and social experiences of international students.
Lucas Risters, the President of ISA, remarked on the association’s significant milestone:
‘In a world where diversity is strength, we have come together to celebrate the joy of unity and the global family that we have become within the wider student community at Rīga Stradiņš University.’
The anniversary celebration displayed a sense of camaraderie and festivity, with performances, awards voted on by the students themselves, and speeches by esteemed university figures adding to the jubilant atmosphere.
RSU Rector Prof. Aigars Pētersons opened the event, addressing the guests to congratulate ISA. 'We recognise that our University is not merely defined by its buildings or its academic programs; it is defined by the people who make up our community. You, our dedicated and talented international students, are an integral part of that community, and your presence enriches our campus in countless ways.
Over 30 years you have come to RSU from various corners of the world. You have brought with you unique perspectives, talents, and dreams. Together, you have formed a tapestry of cultures and backgrounds that has made our university a global village of learning and growth.’
Left to right: RSU Rector Aigars Pētersons, Vice-Dean for International Students Smuidra Žermanos, Vice-Rector for Health Studies Guntis Bahs
At the Awards Ceremony, the award for Best Academic Society went to the Academic Society of Anesthesiology, Intensive, and Emergency Care, the award for Best National Society went to the Italian Student Association in Riga, and the Best Sports Society went to the International Beach Volleyball Club. Additionally, the students voted Asst. Prof. Maija Rumaka (Department of Human Physiology and Biochemistry) as Best Lecturer. The awards were followed by musical performances by talented artists, including Ēriks Gorda and Varis Vilciņš.
Looking ahead, ISA continues its dedicated efforts to foster a strong community spirit among students from various backgrounds. Exciting events such as the upcoming Christmas Ball, to be held jointly with RSU SP, and the Latvian Culture Night promise to offer enriching experiences. The Culture Night is scheduled for November and will provide a platform for international students to delve into Latvian traditions, featuring workshops on cuisine and dance lessons, fostering a deeper cultural understanding.
The International Student Association stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment and the remarkable journey of international students at RSU. As it continues to evolve, ISA remains dedicated to cultivating an environment where diverse cultures and backgrounds converge, fostering a truly global community within the walls of Rīga Stradiņš University.
