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Studying at the UA,the perfect Choice! Internaonal Exchange Student Informaon www.ua.aw Welcome to the University of Aruba

University of Aruba Guidebook

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Page 1: University of Aruba Guidebook

Studying at the UA,the perfect Choice!

International Exchange Student Information

www.ua.awWelcome to the University of Aruba

Page 2: University of Aruba Guidebook

University Of Aruba | Office of Student AffairsAll information of Aruba is written with permission of our official website: www.aruba.com

Guide for International Exchange Student

2011-2012

Page 3: University of Aruba Guidebook

Bon Bini or Welcome!

Thank you for your interest in learning more about the University of Aruba (UA). In this document you will find helpful information about our University’s mis-sion, location, programs and fees. You may also find more information about UA online at www.ua.aw or by visiting our campus.

The mission of the University is to emphasize and encourage intellectual, emo-tional and social development of the individual, as well as personal responsibil-ity of both UA students and employees. The University is a partner, an academic institution and a knowledge/expertise center for national development and a center for Aruban, Caribbean and Antil-lean culture and history.

The UA is a small unique university or can be referred to as an academic institution with interactive classes and much individual attention given to each student. At the UA, both faculty and staff work to provide a positive learning environment through mutual respect and a shared vision of providing quality in education. The UA environment encourages intellectual exchange among students and professors in a friendly and informal atmosphere.

Located in the historic De La Salle Building in front of the post office in downtown Oranjestad and at our satellite office at the Apex Building on L.G. Smith BLVD #158.

The History of ArubaAruba’s path to the present day is marked by the mystery of ochre-colored rock drawings left behind by island shamans, the enterprising spirit of European adventurers and settlers and the diverse experiences and traditions brought by the many nationalities that have since sought out the island as either a new home or temporary resting place. The look of the people, the languages they speak and the innate hospitality that manifests itself in the Aruban psyche is the result of a multi-cultural mix that reflects a rich past.

The AmeriIndians

The Caquetio Indians of the Arawak tribe from the South American mainland were Aruba’s first inhabitants. During the Pre-ceramic Period of habitation (2500 BC – 1000 AD), they were hunters-gatherers who depended on the sea for survival and used tools of roughly flaked stones and shell. They lived in small family groups and fished along Aruba’s coast at locations now named Malmok and Palm Beach.During the beginning of the Ceramic period (1000-1515 AD), five large Indian villages were founded on the best agricultural soil, producing corn and yucca. Indians buried their dead ceremoniously in different ways, indicating a hierarchical socio-political system. They made coarse pottery as well as finer well-crafted pieces.

Spanish RuleWhen explorer Alonso de Ojeda discovered Aruba in 1499 and claimed it for the Spanish throne, he named it la Isla de los Gigantes (Spanish: the Island of Giants). The tall Indians descended from Aruba’s very first settlers. After a decade, Aruba’s moniker was changed to Isla Inutil, a useless island, as no gold or treasures were found.

Social guide

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In 1513, the entire Indian population was en-slaved and taken to work on the Spanish es-tates in Hispaniola, now the Dominican Re-public and Haiti. At the beginning of the Indian Historic Period in 1515, some Indians returned while others arrived from the mainland and lived in small villages in the northern part of the island.

With the return of the Spanish the Indians were recruited as laborers for cattle and horse breeding. From the 17th century on, the majority of Indians migrated from the South American mainland. Indian preachers were Aruba’s Catholic spiritual leaders well into the 18th century. At the beginning of the 19th cen-tury, Indians made up about one-third of the island’s 1700 inhabitants, but in 1862, histori-ans believe that Aruba’s last Indian died.

Dutch RuleAruba’s strategic location was recognized by the Dutch who initially occupied the island in 1636 to protect their salt supply from the mainland and establish a naval base in the Caribbean during their 80-year war with Spain. Further economic development continued through the Dutch West India Company located on the neighboring island of Curacao. Aruba remained in Dutch hands, except for a brief hiatus under English rule from 1805-1816, during the Napoleonic Wars.

About the University of Aruba

The University of Aruba currently offers degree programs such as, the Faculties of Law; Accounting Finance & Marketing; Hospitality, Tourism Management & International Studies; Arts & Science. These Faculties offer educational programs and research activities, as well as services to society. Each Faculty is led by a Dean, while the Faculty Council, with a representation of lecturers, students and administrative staff, forms the faculty board. The academic staff consists of full-time and part-time lectures and professors. The ratio of teaching staff to students allows for small classes and plenty of individual student guidance.

Faculty of Law (Faculteid der Rechtsgeleerdheid-

FdR)The FdR provides academic education and training for the Bachelor and the Master degree in Aruban law. In contrast to law studies at large universities in the Netherlands, FdR offers small classes with personal attention for each student. The under-graduate program (Bachelor) provides a three-year program, while the Master program is one year, with the possibility to specialize in three different profiles, which are Legal Practice, Enterprise and Governance. Students are required to complete the defense of a thesis for graduating. The Faculty of Law closely collaborates with the UNA, Univer-siteit Maastricht, Universiteit Groningen and Univer-siteit van Amsterdam.

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Faculty of Accounting, Finance and Marketing

(Financieel Economsiche Faculteit-FEF)

The FEF provides a Bachelor in Accounting and Finance and a Bachelor in Marketing. These four-year programs offer training for employment possibilities in banking, accounting, hospitality, and construction. FEF offers a dynamic program with many interactive assignments that prepare stu-dents to enter the world of business. After a one year ‘propedeuse’, students special-ize for three years in either accounting (BE) or marketing (CE).The first semester of the third year is reserved for an internship of 16 weeks in Aruba or abroad. After another two semesters of learning theoretical and practical skills, the last semester is dedi-cated to a final research assignment for a company or organization in Aruba or abroad. The FEF collaborates closely with different colleges and Universities in the Netherlands, Curacao and Suriname.

Faculty of Hospitality, Tourism Management & International Studies(FHTMS)The FHTMS recognizes the unique and strategic contribution of the hospitality and tourism industry to the overall devel-opment of Aruba and the region. FHTMS focuses on conducting applied and scientific research and delivering services that benefit the Aruban hospitality community and tourism industry.

The FHTMS consists of undergraduate and graduate programs. The three-year undergraduate program provides stu-dents with a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management and a scientific, research-based pro-gram emphasizing business principles and management theories of international business and the international tourism industry. The graduate program offers a business management development program leading to a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. Students have an opportunity to specialize in different areas, such as International Tourism & Management and International Business & Marketing. The FHTMS collaborates closely with the University of South Carolina.

Faculty of Arts and Science (FAS)The FAS is set up as a multi-study faculty. As such it offers a substantial expansion of the possibilities for higher and academic education in Aruba. FAS Students are provided with Multi-faceted programs with a focus on social-cultural studies and humanities with both research and social & community service opportunities and goals are available to FAS students. The FAS started in 2009 with two bachelor programs, one in Social Work and Development (SW&D), and one in Organization, Governance and Management (OGM).

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Social Work & Development (SW&D)Through the four-year program of Social Work and Development, the University contributes to relevant knowledge regarding social and demographic issues in Aruba and in surrounding regions. The 4-year program provides students with a professional, research-based undergraduate program that explores from a developmental perspective, theory and practice regarding social work for the Aruban community. The program provides both the academic preparation and practical experience that students will need to enter and excel in social work profes-sional fields of diversity and multiple developmental challenges. The Social Work &Development department collaborates with the Social Work program of the University of Curacao, and aims to collaborate with a University in Puerto Rico and the University of the West Indies (UWI).

Organization, Governance and Management (OGM)The four-year Bachelor program provides students with a scientific, research-oriented program and represents a joint ven-ture between the academic fields of Organizational Sciences, Governance & Management. The study focuses on theories and practices, governance, organizational development, business processes, research and (inter) cultural concepts. The program is designed to facilitate the students with competencies they need in careers in areas such as Human Resources, General Policy, Organizational Research & Development, Quality Management, and Process Management &Planning. Fur-thermore graduates are qualified to pursuit different careers in the Public Sector as well as the Private Sector. The depart-ment of OGM collaborates closely with the renowned Utrecht School of Governance at the University of Utrecht.

Office of Student Affairs (OSA)As part of the welcoming program for all new stu-dents, the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) works closely together with the various Faculties in organiz-ing extensive fun-filled orientation days. In addition to this program – that consists of social activities – OSA offers a general education program. These activities and programs run through the entire academic year, and are designed to give students a sense of be-longing to the University and an opportunity to get acquainted with their Faculty staff, various Offices and Centers. It is also an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the various student services and stu-dent opportunities available at the UA.The Faculties and various Offices and Centers of the University are available to assist students throughout their journey at the University. As mentioned, the UA offers students a unique opportunity to enhance their University experience by taking the challenge to fol-low part of their studies or internship abroad. All this information and more can be obtained at the Office of Student Affairs.

About the University of Aruba

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Student OrganizationsWhile academia is the primary area of concentration, we recognize that time spent at the UA is also an op-portunity to make new friends and gain new life experiences. the UA gives students the possibility to “un-lock their creativity and potentials” at the UA. Students are encouraged to get involved with the many opportu-nities the University has to offer and explore their talents. The Faculties & OSA offer support to five student organizations, which are: Student Council ,Circle K service club, Parla-mento Hubenil, Sports Club and the UNIA magazine team.

About ... the University

Page 8: University of Aruba Guidebook

Important Information... for students from Abroad

Arrival and IntroductionThe information below helps you prepare for the trip to the University of Aruba.If possible, try to arrive a week before your classes start. As soon as you have received your Letter of Acceptance from the Dean of the Faculty, you will have a number of important areas to look into, such as housing, medical insurance, arrival infor-mation, etc.

Study the information on these pages carefully in order to avoid complications!

The Office of student affairs will be your first point of contact and will provide extra services once you arrive to the island. There will be other students at the Reina Beatrix Airport to welcome you and help guide you. All exchange students have the possibility of getting acquainting with our University by having a student guide for the first week.

Introduction meetings are also offered on program/school lev-el. Details about specific information meetings and welcome activities will be provided by the Office of Student Affairs.

◌ Registration information

All visiting students are requested to fill out the necessary documents.Visit our website www.ua.aw to obtain the different forms and instructions.

The first thing you would probably want to do when you arrive in Aruba is to check your accommodation. Please note that you can only pick up the key to your room during the opening hours of the Accommodation service. If you arrive during the weekend or in the evening, you will probably have to arrange alternative pick service. Contact the Office of Student Affairs at least three weeks before your arrival on a weekday and during office hours in order to facilitate a smooth arrival.

Introduction program

All international exchange students are invited to take part in the Introduction program. The main purpose of the program is to acquaint students with the University of Aruba.

The preliminary Introduction program will be published on the UA website.

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◌ Deadline for registration

Application Deadline for all Faculties: Fall Semester March 1st, 2011Spring Semester October 1st, 2011

Registration documentsAll applicants should provide the University of Aru-ba, office of student affairs with the following docu-ments, including the registration form.

Necessary documents are: • Copy of your passport• 3 identical colored photo• Copy of birth certificate• Copy of good conduct• Copy of medical Insurance• Proof of student loan or other manner of Financing study• Completed registration form • Learning Agreement and or contract of internship

• Copy of return ticket • Filled out forms of DIMAS (www.dimasaruba.com) - “Aanvraagformulier vergunning” - “Student eerst aanvraag” > assistance is provided (EU students ) - “Internationale student eerste aanvraag” > assistance is provided ( International students )• Overview Transcript (not obligatory but desirable)• Official proof of payment with description:

RBTT bank Account # 30.58.646 Ref: DIMAS Cost $50.00, Full Name and Faculty

AccommodationThere are various apartments around the island that can accommo-date you while studying at the University of Aruba. You can request this overview at the Office of Student Affairs ([email protected]). Please take note that our University is not responsible for these apartments.

Adjusting to Your Host Culture The term culture refers to the values, beliefs, customs, and other forms of behavior shared by members of a social group over a period of time. Culture acts as a sort of filter through which we perceive reality. The way we communicate is conditioned by our culture. Understanding your culture and the way it affects your attitudes and behavior will help you get along with people abroad and allow you to appreciate their culture.

It will be helpful to prepare yourself for the questions you are likely to get about your home country by reading up on current issues, domestic affairs, international policies, and important public figures. You may also want to know what ideas about your home country are common in your host country. Additionally, learn as much as possible about the culture and social, economic, and political situation in your host country before you depart. When you get there, try to understand how the local culture influences the way people act.

Currency

Aruba’s currency is the florin, denoted by the letters ‘AWG.’, divided into 100 cents. The rate of exchange with the US dollar is AWG. 1.77 for cash and AWG. 1.79 for checks. The US dollar is widely accepted on Aruba. To exchange money to dollar or florin, you can visit any banks on the island.

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Aruba’s Banks

Should you need banking services when you arrive, you will find a bank located at the airport. There are also five banks with several branches at other convenient locations. Opening hours usually are from 8am – 4pm, and ATM facilities exist all over the island.

Credit Cards

All major credit cards are accepted and there are Credit Card & Traveler’s checks representatives (American Express/VISA/MasterCard/Discover) available who will help you should you have any problems. ATM machines are also available for cards compatible with the Cirrus system. To prevent any inconvenience, call your local bank to check whether your card will work in Aruba.

Our Time Zone

Aruba is on Atlantic Standard Time year-round. This is one hour later than in the northeastern United States when the clocks there are turned back in the fall for Daylight Savings Time. When the clocks are moved forward in the spring, Aruba has the same time.

Electricity

The power supply on the island is considerably reliable. North American voltage standard of 110 Volt (60 cycles), the same as in the United States and Canada, has been adopted on Aruba. European electrical devices won’t work without a converter plug.

Transportation Getting around Aruba is quick and easy. Bus service to and from downtown Oranjestad and resort areas is reliable and inexpensive. Taxis are always available and have set rates. Many students rent a car for the semester, because it is very convenient to have a car in Aruba.

If you choose to rent a car, please take note of a few important traffic rules:

• Driving is on the right side of the road.• Foreign and international driving licenses accepted.• Free parking throughout the island.• No right turns on red light.• In general, blue signs tell you what is OK and red signs warn you of a restriction.

A red circle indicates that something is forbidden and a red tri-angle tells you something about the road conditions. A yellow or orange diamond indicates that you are on a road with priority.For your convenience we included a list of rental car companies that rent cars to international and exchange students. Further-more there are also the American Rental Car Companies, such as Dollar carr rental,Hertz car rental , Budget car rental and others.

Additional Information

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Health Care All International and Exchange students must have a global/international health insurance prior to his/her arrival on Aruba. Below is a list of Doctors/Specialists that collaborate with the University of Aruba. Take notice that all doctor’s practice must be paid cash; you will afterwards have to redeem your money with your insurance company.

DoctorsName: Angela, Rollyn Address: Caobastraat 2 Telephone: 5839669 E-mail: [email protected]

Name: Trigt. Glenn R. van Address: prof. Lorenzstraat 2-A Telephone: 5822991

Dentist:Name: van Trikt, Hugo R.Address: Hondurastraat 3Telephone: 5834500

Drinking Water

There is no need to buy bottled water in Aruba; the island’s tap water is pure and refreshing, distilled in the world’s second largest saltwater desalination plant. Oil is refined on the island’s southwest coast and a by-product of this process is abundant pure drinking water and electricity. The plant is called the WEB (Water en Energie Bedrijf), and tours of the plant that is located in Balashi are available (Phone +297 582 4700).

Telephone

The international code for Aruba is 00297. Cellular phone chips are widely available around the island. Our two main cellphone companies are Setar and Digicel.

Brief overview of the activities in Aruba

A Geographical differences create a unique combination of land and sea activities. Calm, glittering turquoise waters fringed by marshmallow-soft ivory beaches neighbor a national park encompassing a wild windward coast and unsettled rugged interior. Quiet horseback rides and leisurely beach walks are good for the soul. Hikers can explore twenty rugged miles of trails in Arikok National Park. Golfing combines the challenge of constant trade winds and tropical sun with desert beauty and sweeping Caribbean views. Tour the island from the comfort of an air-conditioned motor coach or on a jeep safari. Be sure to exercise caution on mountain bikes and all-terrain vehicles!The water is calm and perfect for swimming at resort areas. Challenging wave conditions and constant trade winds attract an international host of windsurfers as well as kite surfers and wave sport enthusiasts. Hop aboard a pleasure boat or luxury catamaran for a day of sailing. Rent a jet-ski, sunfish, wave-runner or tube for some wet ‘n wild fun. Reel in dinner on a fishing excursion or kayak tranquilly along the mangrove coast. Shallow coral forma-tions await snorkelers but reef and wreck diving reveal a brilliant underwater fantasy.

Attractions in Aruba World-renowned beaches off-the-beaten path along the wind-whipped coast afford mag-nificent panoramas. See the sights! Explore natural wonders throughout Arikok National Park, the Casibari and Ayo rock formations and Indian caves. Walk through history at the Bushiribana gold mill, Aruba Aloe Factory and Alto Vista Chapel. Museums in downtown Or-anjestad include the new state-of-the-art Historical Museum and the fascinating Numismatic Museum. You will enjoy the creatures at the Butterfly, Ostrich Farm and Donkey Sanctuary.Ostrich Farm and Donkey Sanctuary.

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Much of the seven-mile strip along the west coast is lined with resorts and packed with activity. Beachgoers relax on their comfortable lounges, lost in their favorite book or enjoying people-watching. Swimming, snorkeling, kite surfing, waterskiing, tub-ing, parasailing, banana-boating, and all kinds of wet ‘n wild adventures are just steps away. In contrast, the beaches along the windward coast are in more secluded and undeveloped areas. Here magical coves carved out of limestone and inlets formed by the relentless pounding of waves are overlooked by craggy de-sert terrain.

Nightlife in ArubaAruba nights add excitement to the island’s quiet desert island persona. Mingle with locals at any of the scores of casual beach and pier bars that dot the southwest coast from downtown Oranjestad to the far end of the high-rise strip. Weekly cocktail parties and daily happy hours are island traditions.

Cruises depart from Palm Beach piers; hop aboard for a sunset sail, romantic night-time interlude or a wild party with rope swing. The high-rise area now rivals downtown Oranjestad for trendy venues and after-hours haunts, from karaoke and martini bars to upscale bistros and casual pubs.

The strip comes alive af-ter dark with shops, kiosks, movie theatres, cafes, res-taurants and bars. Let loose on a wild and wacky bar-hopping bus. Some of the most popular bar and clubs amongst students are: South Beach Lounge, Cafe De Pijp, Cafe Rembrandt, Chino La-tino, Senor Frogs, Cafe the Paddock and Confessions Club.

Dining in ArubaOn Aruba, the abundance, full flavor and diversity of cuisines prepared by world-class chefs; fine international wines; casual, elegant and creative ambiances, and at-tentive service combine to create very special dining experiences.

The high-rise strip is now home to over 100 resort and independent restaurants.

This bustling area is dotted with an eclectic patchwork of shops, malls, cafes and restaurants.

But do venture downtown and off the beaten path to discover local favorites and trendy new establishments. No matter where you go, you will find an eclectic menu of delicious ethnic and interna-tional fare.

Classical delicacies such as frogs’ legs, duck, venison, foie gras and-chateaubriand join fresh Caribbean catch such as mahi-mahi and wahoo,

Argentinean churrasco, Mid-dle Eastern shoarma, Japa-nese sushi and teppanyak-iselections, Spanish tapas, Indian curries, Caribbean jerk ribs, homemade pastas, USDA choice steaks, Maine lobster and local goat stew and keshi yena.

Indeed, the tiny island nation of Aruba provides an impres-sive world culinary tour rival-ing the most cosmopolitan of cities.

Beaches on Aruba

Because of strong under-tow and crashing waves, swimming here is not rec-ommended. But the beach-es on Aruba’s wild coast do afford tranquility, privacy and unique natural phe-nomena. Both coasts afford spectacular, glittering Carib-bean views that will surely take your breath away. All beaches are open to the public. Popular beaches include Palm Beach, Baby Beach, Malmok Beach, Ar-ashi Beach, Eagle Beach, Druif Beach, Manchebo Beach, Hadicurari Beach and Mangel Halto.

Brief overview of ... the activities in Aruba

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Religion Most of Aruba’s inhabitants are Roman Catholic, but just as so many nationalities live harmoniously side by side, so do those of various religious beliefs. Tourists are welcome at all houses of worship. Services are in Papiamento unless otherwise noted below.

Social guide

ArubaAruba is a safe, stable and friendly Caribbean island with Dutch roots. A former colony of the Netherlands, it later formed a part of the Netherland Antilles before gaining its autonomy in 1986; under status apartus, Aruba functions as an independent entity within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Aruba’s government is founded on democratic principles.

Historically, Aruba was part of the Netherlands Antilles, a six-island federation which also included Bonaire, Curacao, St. Maarten, St. Eustatius and Saba. This island grouping, in turn, formed the Caribbean component of the Dutch Kingdom, a constitutional monarchy with the Queen of the Netherlands having the dual role of head of state of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, as well as of the country of the Netherlands.

At a Round Table Conference (March 1983), all partners in the Kingdom (the Netherlands, the Central Government of the Neth-erlands Antilles, and the governments of the individual islands) agreed to grant Aruba a separate status within the Kingdom. On January 1, 1986 Aruba became a separate entity within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, an event of historic proportions. This does not represent full independence for the island, a step that may be taken only in the very distant future. Today the Kingdom consists of five partners: Holland, Aruba, Curacao, St Maarten and the BES-Islands (Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba).

As a result of this agreement, Aruban affairs, formerly under the jurisdiction of the Central Government of the Netherlands Antil-les, (aviation, customs, immigration, communications, and other internal and external matters) are now handled autonomously by Aruba. The Kingdom retains responsibility for defense and foreign affairs. Aruba has its own constitution based on Western democratic principles and manages its own aviation, customs, immigration, and communications. Briefly stated, this political status is a form of commonwealth with Holland and sister islands, with which Aruba retains strong economic, cultural and politi-cal ties.

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Social... Guide

The Governor is appointed by the Queen of the Kingdom for a term of six years and acts as the sovereign’s representative on the island. The Legislature consists of a 21-member parliament, elected by popular vote for a four-year term of office. The Council of Ministers, presided over by the Prime Minister, forms the executive power. Legal jurisdiction lies with a Common Court of Justice of Aruba, Curacao, St Maarten and the BES-Islands (Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba), and ultimately with a Supreme Court of Justice in the Netherlands.

People of ArubaOur population of about 120,000 inhabitants is made up of a broad international mixture of well-educated people with a pleasant nature and a zest for hospitality. The modern Aruban is generally of mixed ancestry, claiming Caquetio Indian, Afri-can and European roots. Aruba’s strong economy, excellent living conditions and prime weather continue to attract individu-als from all over the world. Today, the island claims over 79 different nationalities that live and work peacefully on the island.The sincerity of a warm smile and the friendly demeanor of Arubans have not been lost on the island’s guests, with many visitors remarking that it is the people that continue to bring them back to the island year after year. With so many diverse influences on the island, Aruba still retains its uniqueness, as reflected in the openness of its population.Over the years, a great number of people from all over the world have found their way to Aruba. Immigrants hail from South America (primarily Colombia, Venezuela and Peru), other Caribbean islands, and as far away as China, the Philippines, and seventeen European nations. Despite a multi-cultural background, Arubans share a strong national identity buoyed by the success of a healthy economy, a strong educational system, and one of the highest standards of living in the Caribbean.

LanguageDutch and the local language, Papiamento, are the official languages of Aruba, but most Arubans speak a minimum of four languages including English and Spanish.

Aruba’s native language embodies the friendliness for which the local population is known, with the language marked with an inclusive and open nature as represented in its unique sayings and mannerisms. Unique to the ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao, Papiamento evolved from a rudimentary pidgin language, utilized for the purposes of communication among peoples with different native languages, into the more complex language it is today. At its base, the language is an Afro-Portuguese Creole, which, over the years, has grown in syntax and lexicon with increased borrowings from Dutch, English and Spanish, but still possessing its own unique rhythm and meanings.

Evidence of its first widespread use can be observed in official documents from Cu-racao in the early 18th century. Through the middle of the 19th century, Papiamento was the language of choice for written materials, including Roman Catholic hymnals and schoolbooks. The first Papiamento-language newspaper soon followed with the apt moniker of “Civilisado” (The Civilizer) in 1871. Papiamento would have continued to be used as the language of instruction up until Dutch subsidies came with the stipulation that lessons be taught solely in Dutch. Papiamento’s re-introduction into the educational system did not happen again until recent times.

Although in use as the native language for 300 years, Papiamento was only declared Aruba’s official language, alongside Dutch, as of March 19, 2003.

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These are frequently used words and phrases:

English Welcome Good morning Good afternoonGood evening Have a nice day Please IYou How Are You? I am fine, Thank you Very good Thank you very much You’re welcomeSee you later What is your name? My name is_____Where are you going? Everything is alright I am thirsty I am hungryCan I have a beer?

PapiamentoBon BiniBon diaBon tardiBon nochiPasa bon diaPor faborAmiAboCon ta bai?Ami ta bon, dankiHopi bonMasha dankiNa bo ordoTe aworoCon jamabo?Mi nomber ta____Unda bo ta bai?Tur cos ta suaveMi tin sedMi tin hamberMi por haña un cerbes?

EnglishCan I have a glass of water?

How do I get to ____

What time is it?My darling (sweetie)

A kiss A hug Happy

I love you One

Two

ThreeFour

Five

Six

Seven

Eight

Nine

Ten

PapiamentoMi por a haña un glas

di awa?Con mi ta jega ___?

Cuantor tin?Mi dushiUn sunchiUn brazaFelisMi stima boUnDosTresCuatroCincoSeisSieteOchoNuebeDies

Climate

Aruba’s residents and visitors are blessed with clear skies, bright sun-shine and cooling trade winds practically every day of the year. Except for a few scattered weather events annually and perhaps some limited showers on some days (very welcomed by our tropical plants!); the sun does indeed always shine here! Wonderful weather is one of the many reasons for Aruba’s highest return-visitor rate in the Caribbean.

On average, Aruba receives yearly only 408.9 mm (16 inches) of rain, where the greatest likelihood of precipitation is from October through January.

The average air temperature is 27.8 C (82 F). The hottest months are from May through October and the coolest months are from Decem-ber through March.

Aruba’s trade winds blow from the Northeast and the East 95% of the time. The wind speed average is 17 miles/hour (27 km/hr). The mini-mum wind speed is observed in November and the strongest wind is observed in May through June.

The official Atlantic hurricane season extends from June 1 through November 30, with peaks from mid-August till mid-October. Aruba lies on the southern fringes of the hurricane belt and the likelihood of a direct hit is extremely small.

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Social guide

Police Fire alarm Hospital Ambulance:Oranjestad San Nicolas Air Ambulance: Richard Rupert Cellular 1 Cellular 2Medical CenterDept. for National SecurityThe Directorate of Alien Integration, Policy and Admission (DIMAS)Call center:Appointment Line: Important Academic phone numbers University of Aruba J.E. Irausquinplein 4 University of Aruba L.G. Smith Blvd. 158 Office of Student Affairs Office of Educational Affairs Office of Financial Affairs Office of International Affairs

911911911

(297)582-1234(297)584-5050(297)582-9197(297)593-2329(297)593-0201(297)584-8833(297)581-1911

(297)522-1500(297)522-1590(297)522-1502

(297)582-3901(297)588-9946(297)588-9946 ext. 255-256-257(297)582-3901 ext. 291, 306,(297)588-9946 ext. 246-247(297)588-9946 ext. 235

Important emergency

phone numbers

“It doesn’t matter how many say it cannot be done or how many people have tried it before; it’s impor-tant to realize that whatever you’re doing, it’s your first attempt at it.”

~ Wally Amos

Are you ready for the challenge?If so, then we hope to welcome you at the University of Aruba.

Remember, a bright future begins with a quality education and we are here to assist you in achieving your goal.

Contact us: If you are interested in studying at the University of Aruba there are many ways to get in touch with us. You can get to know us online via our website and Facebook, or visit us in person on open days in March and November.Visit our website for program information and all other practical information. For news, chat and events join our group on Face Book (University of Aruba OSA)

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Studying at the UA,the perfect Choice!