A new stage of life has begun: Paderborn University held its traditional first semester welcome event on Wednesday, 2 October. To kick off the 2024/25 winter semester, University President Professor Birgitt Riegraf welcomed 3,271 new students to campus. 2,172 of these started their first ever university studies. ‘You will learn a lot at our university over the coming years, and I hope that you enjoy this very special time in your lives, shape your studies successfully, and make friends for life’, Riegraf said to highlight the importance of this milestone. During the orientation period, new students have an opportunity to learn more about their campus, their fellow students and their teachers.
As in previous years, many of the new students have opted for a teacher training course. The dual-subject bachelor’s degree at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities is also a popular option. In addition, many students have opted for further studies via a master’s degree.
A wide range of opportunities for campus life
Studies are a period of learning, growth and discovery. The visitors to the welcome event learned about the particular features that Paderborn University and its home city have to offer during a discussion session.
Riegraf emphasised the short communication channels at this young, dynamic university, which has a particularly strong research orientation whilst also offering numerous direct contacts. Professor Volker Schöppner, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Quality Management, added: ‘Get actively involved and take advantage of the many things that the university has to offer, from the University Orchestra to the University Drama Group or University Sports. There is plenty to discover, even outside of your studies.’ Sabine Kramm, 2nd Deputy Mayor of the City of Paderborn, was also delighted to welcome the new students in person and highlight the close collaboration between the university and the city.
Finally, Ulrich Schmidt from Student Services presented the options for student financing, catering and housing. Torsten Heß and Lena Wobbe offered an insight into campus life and the activities of the Student Union (Student Council) and student healthcare management.
A varied welcome programme
Lisa Kohaupt helped bring some culture to the start of the semester with a poetry slam. She was the winner of the 2022 U20 OWL Championship. In addition, Zara Akopyan – a Paderborn University alumnus – delighted with her musical accompaniment to the welcome event. The event was presented by Katharina Böhmer in the Audimax and Christopher Müller in lecture hall G.
