After weeks of quiet, life has returned to the THMcampus: In Giessen , Friedberg and Wetzlar, more than 2700 new students have been welcomed – a slight increase compared to 2024. Before their first real lecture, they can expect an orientation week as part of the so-called STEP program, with a wide range of activities related to studying and city life.
On behalf of the university's presidium , Vice President Prof. Dirk Metzger welcomed the attendees in Giessen . In the packed congress hall, he said: "Consider THM your university." He emphasized that the faculty, as well as the deans and the presidium , were "not demigods," but always approachable: "Please don't hesitate to ask us your questions and be persistent in getting answers," he pointedly stated, reflecting a high academic standard. He added that beginning university studies signified a new form of freedom, which the young people should embrace.
To help students cope with this sudden freedom, Albert Osso Schulz offered the support of the General Student Committee (AStA). The chairman said he understood the worries and problems, perhaps even mild panic attacks, that often accompany the start of university studies: "We've all been here." But everyone should feel comfortable at THM and in Giessen . "We're fighting for you," he said – in everyday academic matters as well as in personal situations. He encouraged everyone to get involved, whether in the AStA or student council, through volunteer work, or in a democratic political party. Francesco Arman, the city's social affairs officer, also spoke on behalf of the city of Giessen .
In Friedberg, first-year students were not welcomed centrally, but rather in their respective Degree Courses in the lecture halls of the THM (Technical University of Central Hesse). This allowed them to get to know their lecturers and fellow students. After the official welcome, they explored the campus and received information about central THMfacilities, the student services organization, and the city of Friedberg at a "Meet & Greet" event. Similar opportunities were offered in Giessen .
A total of 2,701 students are beginning their studies at THM this winter semester, according to preliminary figures. Of these, 1,457 are in Giessen , 767 in Friedberg, and 477 at StudiumPlus in Wetzlar, which includes branch campuses. This represents a slight increase compared to last year's influx of first-year students. Because enrollment is still possible in some subjects, these numbers are expected to rise slightly further. The largest Department is "Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Data Processing" in Friedberg with 356 new enrollments. The "Business" Department in Giessen , with 323 first-year students, is the largest Department and, with 227 students in the "Business Administration" bachelor's program, also represents the largest single degree program at THM. At StudiumPlus in Wetzlar, which includes branch campuses, 477 young people are beginning their studies.
Before the start of their studies, students are introduced to the university and the surrounding cities by student associations and the student union (AStA). This includes activities such as game nights in Giessen and Friedberg, a city rally through Giessen on Tuesdays, and pub crawls. Additionally, there are advising sessions available in digital or in-person formats on topics such as financing your studies, studying abroad, family-friendliness, and scholarships.
On Thursday, the Departments at the THMFriedberg campus have also prepared a city rally across the campus and through the town. It will conclude with a barbecue. In addition to deans and the THMpresidium , Mayor Kjetil Dahlhaus will also officially welcome the first-year students. A welcome party for first-year students will take place on Friday evening at the Scarabee in Giessen .