Who are we
Alter.POLIS is a student collective at the Polytechnic University of Turin, founded in 2012 to create a new space for commitment, participation, and social interaction. Shortly after our formation, we decided to run as student representatives in the governing bodies of the Polytechnic, and today we have representatives in all the University's governing bodies. Being representatives means bringing the voice of students on a wide range of issues that concern us directly, to improve both the Polytechnic and society in general, by organizing the hopes, anger, and energy of our community.
What are schwas
In our efforts toward inclusivity, we are committed to writing our guide using elements of gender-neutral language, avoiding the use of the masculine plural in sentences that refer to everyone. The schwa is a phonetic character present in various Italian dialects, such as Neapolitan and Piedmontese, which each person can interpret as they prefer while reading. In the italian version of the guide, you will find it in two forms: a singular "ə" and a plural "з", while in the english version we'll use the neutral prounons "they/them".
What's this guide?
To make all the more "technical" aspects of life at the University more accessible, since 2013 we have been producing this mini guide, updating it year after year. It is a collection that briefly summarizes everything you need to know to navigate the Polytechnic and EDISU (the Regional Authority responsible for the Right to Education in Piedmont): a resource mainly aimed at first-year freshmen, but one we hope will be useful to all students.
Where are we?
Our office is located here in Piazzale Sobrero, and you can reach us by exiting to the right from the Central Engineering Library, in the corner box.
Come visit us every Thursday at 6 p.m. – we’re waiting for you!