South and Southeast Asian Studies (BA)

Student life

Study association SIITAA

SIITAA is the study association specifically for students of South and Southeast Asian Studies at Leiden! In SITAA you get to combine activities focused on SSEAS with fun, a great way to meet up with other students outside of the classroom. SIITAA organises activities such as lectures, trips and excusions; and as a member you get a discount on textbooks. SIITAA also helps you get oriented in the job market with lectures, symposia and company visits. Do you want more information? Check out our website or send an email to siitaa.leiden@gmail.com.

Shanté Neese

Student

"I am from the most southern province of The Netherlands. It takes four hours to travel to the faculty from my parental home. That’s why I wanted to get a room in Leiden. I really like the city: it’s not as big as Amsterdam, for example. It can be quite overwhelming to move to a big city, especially if you’re from the countryside, which is why I like that Leiden is a smaller city. It’s also very Dutch, with all its canals and townhouses. I always enjoy going for a stroll after I finish my classes."

Mies Overtoom

Student

"I work at the Red Cross. I was very busy with this during COVID-19, especially after I finished my exams. I also volunteer as a tutor for children whose parents struggle financially. Apart from that, I am part of the study committee of SSEAS. I thus do quite a lot of things, but I have no problem combining it with my study!"

Leiden student city

Leiden is a lively university city that’s brimming with history and has a vibrant student culture. The city is renowned for its many study and student associations, ranging from sports and music to social and cultural activities. These associations give you access to a sizeable network, which can be very useful for finding accommodation or making new friends. Leiden is a compact and manageable city, so no matter where you live, the university is always just a short bike ride away. 

The Leiden experience

International student Anna made a video about her Leiden experience.