During Welcome Weeks, students not only get to know the university, but also the people who become part of their experience. What starts as a simple get-together quickly turns into something much more meaningful: first encounters, first conversations and, little by little, first friendships. In a completely new environment, these little moments become indispensable.
The first day at TH Lübeck: moments full of expectations
I was really nervous before I arrived because I didn’t know if I would make friends
says an international student. But after the first few days I noticed that everyone here was in the same situation and wanted to meet new people.
Over the course of the two weeks, participants have the opportunity to attend an intensive German course, familiarize themselves with the campus and take part in events about student life. These activities not only help them find their way academically, but also give them a sense of security in everyday life in a new country.
But not everything takes place in the lecture hall. The Welcome Weeks also offer a wide variety of social activities that allow students to discover the city and get to know each other in a relaxed atmosphere. From guided city tours in Lübeck and Hamburg to game evenings, billiards and bowling – every event offers a new opportunity to make contacts.What I particularly love about this experience is that I made new friends and learned about different cultures
says Lucía from Spain. Now I want to visit many countries!
New surroundings, new people, new friendships
For many, these moments outside the lecture hall are the most unforgettable. Away from academic pressure, students can be themselves, share experiences and realize that they are not alone in this process. Everyone is going through something similar: adjusting, starting over, and finding their place.
For many, it’s not just about completing a degree or learning a language, but about building a life in a completely new environment. Small conversations in the cafeteria, laughing together during activities or even getting lost together in a new city become memories that mark the beginning of this journey.
TH Lübeck: Support from international tutors
The support from international tutors also plays an important role. They not only guide new students around campus, but also help them integrate by answering questions and fostering contact with others. Thanks to this support, settling in becomes much easier and more personal.
At the end of the Welcome Weeks the atmosphere has completely changed. What started as a room full of strangers has become a small community. The students no longer sit alone, but in groups. They no longer hesitate to talk, but rather share plans and experiences. I am very grateful for the opportunity and the efforts of the international department so that we could experience the best possible reception
explains Rio from Japan.
TH Lübeck Welcome Weeks: a warm welcome
And so, in the middle of the typical bad weather in Lübeck, something much warmer is created during the Welcome Weeks: a place where international students can feel welcome, understood and supported right from the start. What begins as an academic experience almost unnoticed becomes the beginning of a network of friendships that will likely stay with them throughout their time here – and hopefully beyond.