🤝Community & Support
Student communities, organizations, and support resources for AI students.
AI Student Groups
WhatsApp Groups
Student Organizations
- StudSec - Dutch Student CyberSecurity Association (Based at the VU)
The CS Discord and CS Resource Hub may also be useful if you are interested in CS-related content.
Communities & Associations
There are a bunch of communities and resources for AI students in Amsterdam. Here are the ones worth knowing about:
- STORM is the official study association for AI, Computer Science, and Mathematics students at VU. Nearly 1,500 members. They offer exam archives, discounted textbooks, career events, study sessions, borrels, and social activities. They also run the VU Mentor Program. Membership is highly recommended. Website · Instagram
- VU Mentor Program is a free, university-funded initiative run by STORM that pairs first-years with experienced students. They organize exam prep sessions, game nights, trampoline park outings, community dinners, and peer mentoring throughout the year. Students from the Class of 2028 said it was one of the most useful things they joined. They also maintain a GitHub with course notes and study materials from previous years. Sign up at the start of the year via the WhatsApp community.
- AISO (AI Student Organisation) is the largest AI student association in the Netherlands, based in Amsterdam and open to all students. They host bi-weekly events and guest lectures (AISO Talks) featuring C-level executives, professors, UN leaders, and startup founders, with over 30 events per year. A great way to see how AI is used across industries and to meet people beyond VU. Worth joining even in your first year. Website · Instagram · Events
- Amsterdam AI is a cross-sector initiative connecting knowledge institutions, companies, and public organizations around responsible AI in Amsterdam. Good for staying informed about events and opportunities in the city. Website
- Librae Network is a Netherlands-wide network promoting gender equality in STEM. They run mentorship programmes pairing women+ students with industry mentors, networking dinners, and community events with partner companies like McKinsey, Picnic, and Maven Securities. Website · Instagram
Becoming a Teaching Assistant (TA)
Many courses hire student TAs to help with tutorials, grading, and lab sessions. Being a TA is a great way to deepen your understanding of a subject, earn some money, and build your CV. It's generally available from Year 2 onwards for courses you've already passed.
VU Mentor Program: Want to Help?
If you've been a mentor or have detailed experience with the mentor programme, we'd love to expand this section with more practical advice for incoming students.
If you have experience as a TA or with the mentor programme, please help us make this section more detailed! Reach out via email or contribute directly on GitHub.