Have you received so much information that you decided to keep notes, met so many people that your contact list got three times longer, and seen so many products with rhubarb that you’re wondering whether that’s the only thing Estonians like? Good! That means you’re ready to start this academic year! And I’m here today to help you get the most out of your first September in Tartu, so keep reading for the best and most important things to do this month in the city of Tartu.
After going to all the possible orientation courses, city tours, library guided tours (maybe even bar tours…), you might want to slow down and opt for some quality time with your fresh, new groupmates and friends. Trust me, some bonding right at the beginning of the semester goes a very long way. Personally, my best friends from university are the ones that I acquired in the very first week of studies.
Emajõgi at night .
Even if you didn’t have time to get to know many people, you don’t need to worry; there are various events that will help you make some! For example, I like the concept of “Speed friending” organised by ESN Tartu (click here). Honestly, I recommend keeping an eye on their calendar in general. Experience shows that half the town shows up at their events, so chances are high you’ll meet someone you click with.
ESN Karaoke Night. Photo retrieved from: ESN Tartu Flickr.
Alright, now that we’ve got your social life covered, let’s move on to your everyday activities. Tartu can seem quite small, especially to those who are used to bigger cities. That’s why it’s very important to find hobbies that interest you so that every single day is filled with excitement! So here is the list of things you can try out and see which one of those you like best:
- Sign up for optional courses outside of your field. I remember taking a course in History of Philosophy while being a Science and Technology student, and it was a very nice break from the numbers and endless DNA sequences. You can also start learning Estonian (and download the Estonian keyboard!) There are many courses to choose from: online and in-person!
- You should also not forget about your physical well-being!
- Check out the University of Tartu Sports Hall (click here) for some exercise. No one wants to freeze their limbs in the winter, so opting for an indoor sport could be a great idea (and they have amazing discounts)!
- Or maybe you enjoy something more specific? There are also spots for that! For instance, Ronimistehas (click here) for bouldering, Tähtvere Tennisekeskus (click here) for tennis, and Aura Keskus (click here) for swimming.
- Join the University of Tartu Debate Club! If you love to win arguments in a smart way, then this is the spot for you! You can read more about that here.
Also, I have been waiting to tell you about this event, the whole blog – Tartu Student Days! This is a festival that will be held from 22.09 to 29.09, and it is full of the most exciting events, ranging from hiking to stand-up comedy nights. This is literally my favourite part of the semester. I am especially very fond of the pancake morning. This is the very first event of the festival and it’s held in Tartu City Town Hall, where you can go eat breakfast for completely free (and even take some with you). This year’s student days schedule is linked here!
Student Days Festival Pancake Morning.
And lastly, well, you should also probably (just probably, not surely) focus on your studies too. Putting in work in the beginning means that you won’t have to stress out in the middle of the semester because you missed lectures and aren’t really sure what the course is about. I recommend finding some quiet spots for studying (wink wink—more on that in the next blog post!) and equally motivated friends to study with you!
Most importantly, explore the city itself and find places that will be your favourite spots to have all to yourself on those days that feel a little bit heavier. After all, life in Tartu is not just about studies and clubs. Take a walk by the Emajõgi river when the trees turn golden and the air smells of wet soil, or climb up to Toome Hill for a peaceful study break with a view. If you’re into art and culture, check out the Tartu Art Museum or catch a performance at Vanemuine Theatre! Actually, the number of activities that fit into the smallest town of Tartu can’t even fit in this blog, so surely you will find something that will excite you!
An elegant evening at the Vanemuise Theatre Ball.
Just be sure to take care of yourself first. Don’t rush or feel pressured to agree to every hangout. You aren’t going to miss out, trust me. September is a time of ever-changing weather, and it’s very common to catch a cold and feel under the weather. Make sure to keep a healthy routine, cook some proper meals, get enough sleep, and give yourself time to recover. Tartu has plenty of cosy cafes where you can recharge with a book or journal, so don’t feel guilty for taking things slow sometimes. Balance is key if you want to make it through the semester with both good grades and good memories, so have fun, take your time, and make Tartu your own little home!
Cover Photo Credit: Lauri Saluveer (University of Tartu)
Images authors’ own unless otherwise noted.
Leave a Reply