TOP

Get to know TOP. This organization is not just any organization. They ensure that you, as a new student, get to know your fellow students, student life, and the city of Tilburg in the best possible way. The perfect kick-off for the time of your life! Organizing such a large event involves more than you might think. We had a conversation with the TOP organization to find out what they are busy with. You'll also learn why you should participate in TOP Week in the first place!

Who are you and what do you do at TOP?

"I'm Nienke, 22 years old, and I study Communication and Information Sciences. That aligns well with my role at TOP. I am the Vice-Chair and PR Manager. This means I support the chairperson, handle internal recruitment, and am responsible for all social media."

What is TOP fundamentally?

"TOP stands for Tilburg Orientation Program. Essentially, it's the introduction week for all new students coming to study in Tilburg, intended for both HBO and university students."

"Every year, we organize two weeks: the Winter Week and the main TOP Week. The Winter Week is mainly for exchange students and those starting in February. In the summer, we have the big week for everyone starting their studies in September!"

How does the week look like?

"There's obviously a lot to do during TOP Week. Ultimately, as a new student, the focus is on getting to know your fellow students, student life, and the city of Tilburg. We achieve this through various activities! This includes a festival and opening party, as well as sports classes and an information market where you can get to know all the associations. We aim to cover every aspect of Tilburg."

What are the highlights of such a week?

"Everything! No, but the biggest thing every year is definitely the cantus. The legendary TOP Cantus! The largest in the Netherlands. This year, we're approaching it a bit differently. We found a new location. A cantus is overwhelming because as a high school student, you've never experienced anything like it. It's very student-oriented and fun to experience for the first time."

"Another highlight for some is the day when you can get to know an association. It depends on your interests. We cater to that. If you want to party, we have great parties. If you're more into culture, we ensure you can do enjoyable things in that regard too."

How was your own TOP Week?

"I participated in TOP Week in 2018, and luckily, it proceeded 'normally.' We've had two years with COVID-19. I still say that it was one of the best weeks of my student life. And the cantus remains my number one. I've attended other cantuses, but, in my opinion, this one can't be surpassed."

Why would you recommend students to participate in TOP Week?

"It mainly comes down to the three things: getting to know your fellow students, student life, and the city of Tilburg. You hear that students are still best friends with their TOP group. If you want to become active in student life, it's very beneficial to participate. You get to know student, study, and sports associations in both formal and informal ways. Plus, you just have a lot of fun that week. If you're new to Tilburg, it's also great to get to know the city together with your mentors and the rest of the group."

How has your board year been so far?

"It's been really enjoyable so far. We officially start the board year in October, but we are asked in May, and then, of course, we participate in TOP Week ourselves. That serves as our rehearsal."

"We also do a lot of social activities together. Dinners, outings, a board holiday. We have a lot of fun, and I really appreciate that."

"TOP Week itself will undoubtedly be the highlight. That remains 'work,' but it's going to be great. The closing of TOP Winter Week was already fantastic. This year required a lot of flexibility. We had to be sharp and adapt the program due to changing measures. Standing there with pride and a sense of accomplishment was really fulfilling. Our board holiday was also a lot of fun. The cobo was enjoyable, and there are still many exciting things to come."

How is the organization structured?

"We have a seven-member board. In addition, we have 13 committee members each year, equivalent to the board. They assist us with the preparations for TOP Week. It's such a big week, and you naturally need more hands."

"We also have the TOP Crew during the week. They, for example, help us behind the bar. During TOP Week, there are also people in pink walking around. They are former organizers of TOP. You get to join as a way of thanking them for all their efforts. Of course, they still help here and there."

How are you feeling about this TOP Week?

"We saw with the Winter Week that we had to switch programs. So, we are a bit cautious with our expectations. It's great to see that events can proceed as usual, standing and celebrating. In that sense, it's exciting because we've missed two years of knowledge. We are greatly helped and supported by former organizers who have a lot of knowledge. Overall, we're just really looking forward to it!"

Do you have plans for the future?

"Not really. We change boards every year, and we want each board to make its own choices. We only plan for a year. Locations and such are often reused because you know there is space there. Other decisions, we leave for each new board to make."

"At some point, we do want to grow, but that would require a larger events venue in Tilburg. We are already at the maximum capacity of the Koepelhal. The university is still growing, so it would be great if we could double in size in about 5 years."

How can one get involved with your organization?

"We are currently looking for the TOP Crew. As part of the TOP Crew during TOP Week, you work behind the scenes all week to support the organization. It's really fun to do. It will be a large group, so you also make a lot of new friends. You are welcome the entire week and only need to do a few shifts. We are still looking for people, so definitely sign up!"

How does the registration process work?

"The program is now online! Registration will open on June 7th. From that moment until two weeks before TOP Week, you can sign up. The tip, however, is to register early to secure your spot. The chance is high that it will sell out this year."

Do you want to know more about TOP and where to sign up? Then take a look at the website!