New life in Paderborn: 112 exchange students get started!

New life in Paderborn: 112 exchange students get started!

On Tuesday, September 2, 2025, the University of Paderborn welcomed a total of 112 new exchange students to an introductory event. This took place as part of the winter semester 2025/26 and was led by Martina Leifeld, Nicole Struzek, Heike Stiller and Brigitte Rohde from the International Office. The exchange students come from 53 partner universities from 23 different nations, which underlines the international orientation of the university.

Some students have decided to study in Paderborn all year round. The event gave the new international students the opportunity to get to know the university and the campus and to experience their first visit to the cafeteria. The program also included the presentation of a cultural accompanying program that offers exciting events in various cities in Germany.

Cultural integration and support

The cultural accompanying program is organized by the International Office in collaboration with the student association “Eurobiz e. V.” organized. In the first week, the exchange students take part in intercultural workshops run by the International Office. These workshops are designed to help international students quickly settle into their new surroundings. The students also complete a semester-preparatory German course in order to improve their language skills and be able to integrate more effectively.

The 46 Paderborn buddies who are part of the buddy program provide important support for the exchange students. The buddies actively support the international students by accompanying them when they go to the authorities, do their first shopping and use public transport. This support is particularly valuable in offering new students unrestricted opportunities to participate in the new environment.

Buddy program at other universities

The buddy program concept has also been successfully established at other universities, such as Aschaffenburg University. Every year over 120 exchange students from different countries come there. The International Office at Aschaffenburg University also offers the opportunity to get involved as a buddy. The buddy's typical tasks include greeting, helping you find your way around campus and assisting with organizational matters.

• Begrüßung der internationalen Studierenden
• Unterstützung beim Zurechtfinden auf dem Campus
• Ansprechpartner während des Semesters
• Begleitung bei organisatorischen Angelegenheiten (z.B. Bankkonto, Rathaus)
• Organisation von Ausflügen

The benefits for buddies are varied. You can make international contacts, improve your language skills and gain insights into other cultures. Buddies also receive a confirmation of participation, which is part of Module 1 for the Certificate of Intercultural Competence. Such programs not only promote integration, but also an enriching exchange between cultures.