Joining AEGEE
How can I join AEGEE-Tartu?
If you wish to join us, you need to fill in the registration form. Once that’s done, our HR responsible will contact you.
During which periods does AEGEE-Tartu accept new members?
We accept new members all year round at any time.
Who can join AEGEE-Tartu?
Young people aged between 18 to 35 (included). We welcome students of all universities and colleges in Tartu, as well as high school students and graduates if they fit into the age limit. International and Erasmus students are also welcome to join!
How much does joining cost?
The annual membership fee is 28 EUR and half-year membership fee 19 EUR.
Can I be a member of two antennas at the same time?
Yes, however this means that you have to pay membership fee for both of them.
Do I need to speak Estonian in order to join AEGEE-Tartu?
No. We are able to function in English or bilingually in the presence of someone who doesn’t speak Estonian.
How do you support your new members at the beginning?
Each new member will have a mentor (an experienced member) that will introduce them to the organisation, answer their questions and help them find their place in AEGEE.
Being a member
Where do the work and events of AEGEE-Tartu take place?
We have our own office located at Ülikooli 7. Most working group meetings and events happen there.
Is it mandatory to attend the weekly events?
No. Each member is free to decide which events and projects they want to be part of.
Is it mandatory to be in a working group?
It is not mandatory but strongly recommended because that’s exactly how you’ll develop your skills and feel that you’re a member of the team.
When can an ordinary member run for a board position?
Each member has the right to run for any position in the board regardless of how long they’ve been a member. The yearly board elections take place at the June Agora.
Can I be awarded ECTSs or receive a salary for the work done in AEGEE?
No. AEGEE is fully based on volunteering. However, the skills and experience you obtain in AEGEE can do you a favour in the job market. It will also help you build a network of contacts around Europe.
Europe
Do I have to be a member of AEGEE in order to participate in Summer University?
Yes.
When will I become eligible to apply to European events?
As soon as you’ve joined.
Are the European events free of charge?
No, but the organizers do all they can to keep the participation fee as low as possible. The participation fee includes accommodation, meals and the program itself, however you’ll have to pay for the transport between Tartu and the place of the event.
What kind of events take place in Europe?
Please find a description of the European events here.
Do I need local board experience in order to apply to a European level working group?
No. There is no fixed path which you need to follow in order to build your AEGEE career. You can even start straight from the European level. However, in the case of some European positions, local board experience would be an advantage.
Can I be active at the local and European level at the same time?
Yes!
Structure
What does local level mean?
AEGEE’s local level is city-based (not university or country based). This means that AEGEE-Tartu welcomes young people living and studying in Tartu.
What does antenna mean?
Antenna is a local level unit. For example, AEGEE-Tartu is an antenna, AEGEE-Tallinn is also an antenna etc.
What is Agora?
Local Agora is AEGEE-Tartu’s biannual general assembly that is mandatory for all members. European Agora is also a biannual event, a similar thing for the European level where all antennae send their delegates. Every member has an opportunity (but not an obligation) to represent their antenna at the European Agora.
Does national level exist in AEGEE?
No. Unlike several other international student organisations, AEGEE does not emphasize state borders and strives for a borderless Europe. However, AEGEE does not deny the existence of different cultures within Europe.
Which geographical region does AEGEE cover?
AEGEE covers Europe in its widest geographical sense which means that it also includes Russia, Turkey and the Caucasus. However, there are some European countries where AEGEE is currently not present. A map of antennae can be found here.
Is AEGEE present elsewhere in Estonia?
AEGEE-Tallinn is present in Tallinn. There are no AEGEE antennae elsewhere in Estonia. However, if there is a group of enthusiastic young people that are willing to make a long-term commitment, it is possible to initiate an antenna. The instructions for starting an antenna can be found here, the process of becoming from contact to a proper antenna is described here.