On March 23, Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences opened its doors for its College Information Day and welcomed many prospective students who explored both campuses in Zittau and Görlitz—either on their own, in small groups, or accompanied by their parents. Numerous university staff members offered the approximately 600 visitors a diverse program that not only showcased the wide range of academic programs but also provided deep insights into the vibrant campus life and featured plenty of hands-on activities.

In addition to lectures and workshops, the Zittau campus offered guided tours of laboratories, among other activities. The Görlitz campus also presented a wide range of events. Rector Alexander Kratzsch was delighted by the high level of interest shown by prospective students.

More than 150 employees from the faculties, institutes, the administration, and the support units volunteered their time to welcome prospective students—some of whom had traveled from far beyond Saxony’s borders—to the university’s two campuses in Zittau and Görlitz. “Once again this year, the number of visitors from Poland, the Czech Republic, and other German states underscores our university’s strong appeal across state and national borders,” summarized Rector Alexander Kratzsch.

In addition to learning about the degree programmes, prospective students had the opportunity to engage in one-on-one conversations with faculty members, students, and university staff. The Student Advisory Service also offered individual counseling sessions to assist with choosing a degree programme and to answer questions about academic life.

The Dresden 'Studentenwerk' (student union) was on site and offered detailed advice on financial aid options and housing in Zittau and Görlitz. “For many prospective students, clarifying these matters is an important prerequisite for even beginning their studies,” says the Rector regarding this service.

Impressions from the Open House at the Görlitz university campus

A career fair featuring numerous exhibitors at the Zittau campus provided the perfect opportunity for anyone interested in a dual study program at HSZG to meet partner companies in person and secure an apprenticeship or a practical training partner for a dual study program. The University Library was open at both campuses, and the university sports department took the opportunity to showcase the brand-new fitness room at the Görlitz campus.

The Federal Employment Agency was represented at both campuses with a booth offering academic guidance and career counseling. Visitors to the information booths for the MyHSZG Campus App received first-hand information about the benefits and diverse opportunities the new app offers for academic orientation and organizing campus life.

A University You Can Experience Firsthand

In addition to the HSZG’s environmental and campus health management programs, various university institutes were also on site to provide information—including through hands-on stations—on measurement technology, natural product research, and interdisciplinary transformation research.

“Hands-on” was also the focus of the “mini soldering course.” There, those interested in an apprenticeship program at HSZG learned the necessary steps for building an electronic cube and, along the way, struck up conversations with students in the dual study program.

At the “Zukunftslernort Oberlausitz – ZukLOS” information booth, visitors learned more about the project’s planned initiatives and the future redesign of selected teaching and common areas at the HSZG, which will enhance the university’s appeal. They were also able to contribute their own ideas right away.

In Görlitz, the Saxon Film Academy presented its program.

Insights into Campus Life

In addition to the wealth of information on offer, the culinary offerings at the university’s open house were also plentiful. In Görlitz, those eager to learn could enjoy a meal at the MIO student canteen, while in Zittau, visitors were treated to hearty, vegan, and sweet treats provided by regional partners and the Faculty Student Committee of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. Over regional specialties, guests enjoyed a relaxed get-together where they could discuss studying and life in Zittau and Görlitz.

Campus tours organized by the Student Council at both locations provided a special glimpse into the facilities and various amenities. Finally, city tours were also offered, giving guests the opportunity to discover the cultural and historical highlights as well as the student hotspots in both cities.

Highlights from the Open University Day at the Zittau campus

What was particularly good for the visitors?

The university administration and the organizing team were delighted by the wide range of positive feedback collected through an online survey. Among the responses to the question, “What did you particularly like about the University Information Day?” were the following:

• The openness and relaxed atmosphere!
• The lab tours and conversations with students and faculty!
• The campus and the CampusApp.
• The wide range of university sports activities!
• How friendly everyone was!
• The interaction with students and the program presentations!

One visitor summed up the visit with the statement: “The program offerings are very impressive!”

See you there!

Prospective students who missed the Open House still have several opportunities to get to know Zittau/Görlitz University in person.

Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences is delighted with the success of its Open House, which was made possible only through the strong commitment and cooperation of everyone involved. A big thank you goes out to everyone who helped provide prospective students and their families with an inspiring and informative look at HSZG.

Photos from Zittau: Zhaniya Pirmoldayeva
Photos from Görlitz: Sven Müller
Text: Cornelia Rothe