What is an initiation?
Not every student organisation holds initiations, and that’s perfectly fine. Those that do have their own unique approach. Regional organisations tend to enjoy a bit of mud and mess, similar to youth movements. Interest-based organisations have their own, sometimes absurd rituals, like live action role-playing games. And faculty organisations? They turn it into a true rebirth in secular thinking, with a nod to how we enter the world: naked and blue!
What do they all have in common? The symbolism of rebirth. An initiation is not humiliation but a transition: you leave your prejudices behind and learn to look at the world with a fresh, critical eye. It’s also about connection. During the initiation and related activities, new members really get to know each other, forming friendships that often last a lifetime.
VUB initiations are always voluntary and strictly regulated to ensure everyone’s safety. New members and board members must remain sober, sexually charged tasks are prohibited, and the initiation activities—including the initiation itself—are overseen by an independent control body. You can find all the agreements in the official initiation framework.
Still have questions? Check our FAQ or talk to someone in your organisation. They’ll be happy to help you.
Smartly initiated: your FAQ about VUB initiations
There are many stories circulating about student initiations, which sometimes raise questions or cause misunderstandings. To clarify matters, we have compiled the most frequently asked questions in a handy FAQ. This way, you will know immediately what you can (and cannot) expect.
Do I have to be initiated to join a student organisation?
No, you can absolutely become a member of a student organisation without going through an initiation ritual. Many activities are also open to non-members. Moreover, only a limited number of recognised student organisations at VUB organise an initiation, and each organisation has its own approach.
Below you will find an overview of the student organisations who organise an initiation:
- Faculty organisations: GK, FK, KEPS, LWK, PERSKring, Mesacosa, PPK, VRG, Solvay Kring and PK
- Regional organisations: Antverpia, Hesbania, Kinneke Baba, KBS, Limburgia, VSKM and WUK
- Interest-based organisations: Bierkultuur and SWAMP
Who or what is a pledge?
A pledge is a student who has joined a student organisation with the intention of becoming a full member (= commilito), but who has not yet completed the entire pledge programme.
Are fresher activities and initiations at the VUB safe?
All student organisations that organise initiations follow the VUB Initiation Framework, which they sign at the beginning of each academic year. This framework is designed to ensure that initiation activities take place in a respectful, safe and enjoyable environment, so that everyone feels welcome.
That is why both initiates and board members remain sober during a faculty initiation. Sexually suggestive tasks are not permitted, and an independent body monitors compliance with the agreed guidelines.
We also believe it is important that everyone can participate in a comfortable way. Do you have a disability or are you unable to complete certain activities for health reasons? The organisation will work with you to find a suitable alternative. Please let them know in advance so they can take this into account.
Above all, remember: your well-being always comes first.
Can I be initiated if I don't drink alcohol?
Absolutely! Alcohol consumption during student activities at the VUB is strictly regulated. Organisations are required to actively offer low-alcohol and alcohol-free alternatives. And don't worry: no one will look at you strangely if you choose not to drink. There are many students who enjoy their student life completely sober. Curious? Read their stories here and find out how they experience it.
Do I have to attend all pledge activities?
That depends on the student organisation, but usually you are expected to participate in at least a few activities before your initiation. If you are unable to attend due to classes or other commitments, be sure to let your society know. They will be happy to work with you to ensure that you can still participate in the initiation.
What if I feel uncomfortable with an assignment during a fresher activity or initiation?
If you feel uncomfortable during a fresher activity or initiation, you can always say that you do not want to do something. You have the right to refuse an assignment or to stop participating at any time. Where necessary, the association will provide an alternative, and a designated person of trust will be present at every activity whom you can approach with any questions or concerns. Participation is voluntary: your comfort, safety, and boundaries always come first.
By the end of October, you suddenly see blue everywhere on campus. How come?
That is usually a sign that the initiation season has begun. Most student organisations organise their initiations between mid-October and mid-November. Traditionally, the regional ones go first, followed by the faculty organisations. Interest-based groups often choose a date somewhere in between, although some wait until the second semester.
As a result, during those weeks you regularly see students walking around campus in lab coats or covered in blue.
Fun fact: that blue colour comes from methylene blue, a dye that is added to the so-called ‘clash’, a mixture used during faculty initiations.
Can I join an initiation later on or with multiple student organisations?
Yes. You can take part in initiations with multiple student organisations, and you can also do so after your first year. There is no fixed deadline or required order: you can choose when and which organisation you want to join.
Are photographs allowed during the pledge activities and the initiation?
This is allowed, but only with the explicit and prior consent of the participants involved. Without this consent, images may not be taken or distributed. An even stricter policy applies to faculty initiations, where taking photographs and videos is completely prohibited. This is strictly monitored by the student organisations, the public and the supervisory body.