Perfect start to the new phase of life

After high school, vocational training, or a year abroad, starting college marks the beginning of a whole new chapter in life for many. As part of the “Come In” Weeks, which took place from September 12–23, 2022, new students had the opportunity to attend various preparatory courses. Whether it was root functions, differential calculus, circuits, induction, stoichiometry, redox reactions, centripetal force, or the law of mass action—participants had a wide range of courses to choose from to refresh their knowledge.
This year, the preparatory courses were organized under the direction of the Vice President for Education and International Affairs, Prof. Keil, in collaboration with the Office of Education, the faculties, the Student Council (StuRa), and the Faculty Student Committees.
Zittau, as a campus for technical degree programmes, offered its usual wide range of courses in mathematics, electrical engineering, chemistry, and physics. At the Görlitz campus, a preparatory course in mathematics—specifically for students in the Faculty of Managerial and Cultural Studies—and a preparatory course in computer science for new computer science students were offered.

The “Come In” Weeks in Numbers

With a total of 99 students, the courses were very good in demand. 84 of our new students took part in the introductory mathematics courses in Zittau and Görlitz. The introductory physics course attracted 50 eager learners; the chemistry sessions were good with 25 participants, the electrical engineering sessions with 30, and the computer science sessions with 17.

The “feel-good factor” is important to us

In addition to the necessary foundational knowledge, general well-being is likely just as important for a successful academic experience. This is the focus of our recreational activities, which were organized in collaboration with the Student Council and the Faculty Student Committees and featured a colorful mix of various excursions and activities. Whether it was a cozy evening by the lake or on campus, or a hike through the nearby mountainous landscape—spending time together provided opportunities for conversation with like-minded people while also showcasing the many possibilities of the welcoming Upper Lusatia region.

The city tours were very well attended. In Zittau, participants marveled at the vaulted cellars in the historic city center, among other sights, while Görlitz, the easternmost city in Germany, shone with its Gründerzeit charm.

As in previous years, the Zittau pub crawl was a highlight. Led by student volunteers, the groups visited the city’s most popular pubs as part of a full evening’s program. The convivial evening came to a close at a shared destination: the DeZi Bar.

Bottom Line

Once again this year, we can look back on the “Come In” Weeks with satisfaction. For several years now, they have been an important part of the transition to university life at HSZG. For many young people who have chosen to pursue an academic education in Zittau or Görlitz, this has made the start of this new chapter in their lives much easier.

The organizers would like to thank everyone involved who contributed to the success of the academic and recreational events. Special thanks go to the instructors of the preparatory courses in mathematics, Professor Mashuryan and Professor Schnell. We would also like to thank Mr. Cella for his role in conducting the mathematics preparatory course—he has supported the course and the tutorials for many years—as well as Ms. Grohmann and Mr. Eger. We thank Mr. Praße for leading the chemistry preparatory course, Mr. Spitzner for leading the physics course, Ms. Herzig as the instructor for the electrical engineering preparatory course, and Dr. Renger for offering the computer science preparatory course. A heartfelt thank you also goes to all the hardworking helpers from the Student Council (StuRa), the Faculty Student Committees, and the student assistants.

We wish the new students a successful start to their first semester and an enjoyable academic experience at our university.