On Tuesday, 2 September, Martina Leifeld, Nicole Struzek, Heike Stiller, and Brigitte Rohde from Paderborn University's International Office welcomed the new exchange students for the winter semester 2025/26 at an introductory event. The 112 international students come from 53 partner universities from 23 different countries. They are all spending the winter semester in Paderborn, with some even staying for a whole year.

During the introductory event, the international students were given an overview of the university and the campus, including a first visit to the “mensa”. The accompanying cultural programme, which the exchange students can take part in throughout the semester, was also presented. This includes, for example, numerous events in various cities in Germany organised by the International Office and the student association "Eurobiz e. V.".

During their first week in Paderborn, the exchange students take part in intercultural workshops by the International Office, which help them to quickly settle into their new environment. The students also complete a German course in preparation for the semester. They are looked after by 46 "buddies", i.e. Paderborn students who take part in the International Office's Buddy Programme. As mentors, they accompany the international students, for example when dealing with the authorities and doing their first shopping, and provide helpful tips for everyday life, such as how to use public transport.

This text was translated automatically.