New SHÍ International Officer aims to strengthen student connections and solidarity

“My goal is to ensure that international students feel like part of the community at the University of Iceland, and not just like guests,” says Anna Sóley Jónsdóttir, the new International Officer for the Student Council of the University of Iceland (SHÍ). She takes over the position from Snæfríður Blær Teitsdóttir; appointments to the role are for one year. Anna Sóley wants to strengthen ties between Icelandic and international students, improve the information flow, and ensure that the voices of international students are heard within the university community.

The International Officer is the main contact and advocate for international students within the Student Council and manages various projects on their behalf. “I primarily serve international students and want to support the diverse group that has decided to embark on their studies at our university. I think it is imperative that they feel welcome and know where to seek assistance if needed,” says Anna Sóley. The International Officer is also the SHÍ representative in the Aurora Alliance collaboration and works closely with the International Division. In the coming months, Anna Sóley plans to focus on improving the information flow and solidarity within the student body. “I want SHÍ to be visible to international students, and for them to know that they have a voice and support within the university,” she adds.

She primarily sees opportunities streamline communication channels, and make social life more accessible. Many students want to take a greater part in the university community, but do not quite know where to start. “My goal is to create a space where students can meet and build connections, learn from each other, and benefit from being part of a vibrant community.”

Collaboration and open dialogue within SHÍ and UI are key

One of Anna Sóley’s main objectives is to ensure that the opinions and experiences of international students are incorporated into policymaking within SHÍ. “We in the SHÍ International Committee meet weekly to discuss the situation. It is important to regularly gauge the students’ perspectives and hear directly from them what can be improved,” she explains.

The biggest challenges revolve around bridging the gap between Icelandic and international students. “It is crucial that everyone has equal opportunities to participate. I also want to simplify and clarify the process for new international students and ensure that support is available from the start. I believe that collaboration and open dialogue within SHÍ and the University will be key to this work,” she says.

The Aurora Alliance creates opportunities

The main partners for the International Officer are SHÍ and its internal committees, in addition to the International Division. “Then there is the Aurora Alliance, a hugely exciting partnership that I get to be part of. Students can take courses at other European universities and participate in diverse projects that enhance their skills for working across borders, languages, and cultures. It’s an inspiring programme,” she says.

Anna Sóley mentions that associations like ESN (Erasmus Student Network) have done a fantastic job supporting international students and are a valuable partner for SHÍ. “I place great emphasis on good and active collaboration and have already started considering how we can further strengthen our network; with student associations or even companies outside the university.”

International Days ahead

“We are fully engaged in preparing for the annual International Days, in collaboration with the International Division, from 5 - 7 November. There will be great fun and plenty of exciting events during the day and evenings. This is one of the most enjoyable events of the autumn semester and a fantastic opportunity to explore options for studying abroad and to meet new people and cultures,” says Sóley, adding that the committee is preparing other events this academic year, which will be announced soon.

Encouraging international students to get in touch

Anna Sóley welcomes international students to visit the SHÍ office during her office hours on Tuesdays at 10 am–12 pm and Thursdays at 3 pm–5 pm, or via email at internationalcommittee@hi.is. “It would be ideal if as many people as possible came and chatted with me, both casually and if something more serious needs to be discussed,” she says. “International students are an essential part of the university community, and their voices matter a great deal. If something can be fixed or improved, I want to hear it!”

She encourages students not to be afraid to ask questions and try something new: to attend events, whether the University runs them or not. That way, people can meet others and fully experience the university atmosphere. “And if you’re having a difficult day, you can always pop down to the Student Cellar (Stúdentakjallarinn),” says Anna Sóley.

Anna Sóley is studying for a BA in Art History with Political Science as a minor subject. She served on the Student Council and the School of Humanities Council last year. She recently revived the student association Artíma, the association for art history students, which had been dormant for some time. Her favourite spot on campus is Veröld (The House of Vigdís), as all her classes took place there during her first semester. “The café has delicious matcha; a bit of a hidden gem, in my opinion.”

We welcome Anna Sóley to her new role, and thank Snæfríður Blær for her excellent cooperation over the past year.