On February 5, 2026 from 04:00 pm on, it happens again: The University Library jointly with the University Computer Center, the Foreign Language Center, the Methodological Competence Center of the Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, the Central Course Guidance Service as well as the Student Council, the faculty student bodies and the Student Union Chemnitz-Zwickau invites again for the “Long Night of Postponed Course Papers”. The concept was adapted to the demands of the students. Thus, this year is provided the opportunity to book in advance individual time slots of 20 minutes for consultation with the respective consultant at the information booths according to the own time planning and orienting at the personal inquiries and needs via OPAL (mytuc.org/gsxv). The information booths provide their offers at the west wing at the ground floor of the Library Building until 10:00 pm.

In order to create the best conditions for finally complete the course paper, also sufficient opportunities for relaxing are provided: Thus, at 05:45 pm and at 08:00 pm a “break for moving” of respectively 15 minutes is offered at the east wing at the ground floor and within the period from 06:00-08:00 pm four times yoga and relaxing exercises of respectively 20 minutes (in the IdeenReich). From 07:00-09:00 pm, twelve time slots for “speed massages” of respectively ten minutes are provided. Those are allocated from 05:00 pm on at the information booth of the Student Union – first come, first serve! For the “breaks for moving” as well as for the yoga and relaxing exercises on the contrary, no prior registration is required. Thanks to the Student Union, also food and beverages are provided.

The event is rounded off by a keynote speech of Sofie Marie Götz of the Junior Professorship Sociology with Specialization in Technology dealing with the topic “Apply Generative AI (right) within studies” in the IdeenReich.

Subsequently, from 10:00 pm on, the course paper may be elaborated – this time, however, not only until midnight but all around the clock as until February 14, 2026 midnight, the University Library stays open 24/7 for the first time and thus fulfills a wish frequently expressed by its users. Consequently, not only the “course paper authors” but all students are cordially invited to extensively make use of this offer and crowd the University Library also during the night within the period mentioned. Please observe to bring with you your TUCcard as you will need it for getting in the Library Building within the time from midnight to 09:00 am by presenting it to a scanning device next to the main entrance.

Detailed information regarding the “Long Night of Postponed Course Papers”: https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/ub/aktuell/veranstaltungen/landah.html.en

“Postponed is not abandoned – finally complete the course paper!” Headed by this slogan, the "Long Night of Postponed Course Papers" happens again on March 6, 2025 at Chemnitz University of Technology. It starts at 03 pm at the University Library, Straße der Nationen 33. The participation is free of charges.

"Students of Chemnitz University of Technology, who would like to complete their course paper, and doctoral students, who want to proceed with the elaboration of their doctoral thesis, may expect a comprehensive program and lots of time for writing," Angela Malz, Director of the University Library, says. Thus, representatives of faculties and central institutions of Chemnitz University of Technology, of the Student Union Chemnitz-Zwickau as well as other offer a variety of workshops.

The "Long Night" will be opened by a presentation of Tina Horlitz from the Student Union Chemnitz-Zwickau dealing with the question “Have you ever thought about yourself?” which would like to provide hints and information on how to take care for oneself in challenging phases of studies in order to charge (new) energy and to stay high-performing. The presentation is followed by workshops dealing with the search for literature for the course paper resp. the doctoral thesis, with the management of literature sources and with ways to avoid frequent mistakes in LaTeX-manuscripts, held parallely in German and English, as well as on how to conduct appropriate surveys in the field of empirical social research. In addition, there will be again a workshop giving answers to the question "And what comes next? Entrepreneurship during and after studies". Furthermore, there are additional new workshop offers regarding “Legal questions about studying” and the working method of the “Digital note box”. Finally, there will be again an offer for exercise.

Moreover, there will be information booths until 09 pm at the foyer of the University Library, where participants may gather information regarding literature search, working methods, texting techniques, IT as well as social and psychological aspects of academic work. Specific questions of international students, regarding residence issues or related to learning German as a foreign language for instance, are answered as well.

A number of persons and institutions of Chemnitz University of Technology were involved in the organization of the "Long Night of Postponed Course Papers". Among those are the University Library, the Student Council of Chemnitz University of Technology, the faculty student bodies, the University Computer Center, the Methodological Competence Center of the Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, the Professorship of Intercultural Communication, the entrepreneurship network SAXEED, the International Office, the Foreign Language Center and the Central Course Guidance Service as well as the Student Union Chemnitz-Zwickau. 

Homepage of the "Long Night of Postponed Course Papers": www.mytuc.org/landah   

Additional offers of Chemnitz University of Technology regarding "Academic Writing"

In addition to the "Long Night of Postponed Course Papers", also other offers may be used for getting assistance in academic writing. To those belong:

• a course "Academic Writing" during the term on Thursdays from 11:30 am to 01:00 pm,
• an Academic Writing Week  from March 10 to 14, 2025, from 09:00 am to 12:15 pm respectively, and
• consultation hours for academic writing, held during the term on Tuesdays from 11:30 am to 01:00 pm.

The courses and consultation hours are offered by Dr. Burkhard Müller. Please register for participation at the Foreign Language Center of Chemnitz University of Technology.

In the year 2030, the University Library has turned into a „5D-Library”. This is the objective determined in the strategy of the University Library of Chemnitz University of Technology which she has published now in short version on a website (mytuc.org/xrfv). In this context, “5D” stands for: digital, dynamic, durable, divers and discursive. Within those thematic fields, the University Library has defined 24 measures in total which will be implemented by already established task teams step by step within the next five years.

“Naturally, we do not start at zero but we may rely on a lot of what we already achieved, for example regarding the engagement for Open Science, the promotion of Open Access, the digitization of our collections, the modularization of services and within sustainability” comments Angela Malz, Director of the University Library. And as so-called “Third Place”, the University Library offers, in addition to the place of work and the own home, a variable location of learning and knowledge inviting to relax, to learn, to stay and to participate in a variety of events and which, within the upcoming years, enhances its portfolio by i.a. a Virtual Reading Hall. Complementarily Malz adds: “Within the strategy, however, we start also a lot of other projects, for example in the field of enhanced engagement in internationalization, in dealing with new AR- and AI-technologies in the library sector as well as in our engagement for long-time-archiving.”

All started with the moving of the University Library to the Old Spinning Mill building in the year 2020. With respect to the concentration from three de-centralized to one central library location, the geographic location and the related task, the new functionalities of the building like an exhibition and an event area as well as to the merging to one team, it was decided to jointly also determine a direction for the short-, mid- and long-term development of the Library. In this context, i.a. workshops with all staff members of the University Library were organized who merged to working groups dealing with respective thematic key fields. At the beginning of 2023, a comprehensive survey among its users consisting of students and scholars of Chemnitz University of Technology, non-scientific staff members as well as external users was implemented. Non-users were included as well. The objective consisted on including the internal as well as the external point of view in the strategy development process. “In total, 630 online-surveys were filled in completely and integrated in the evaluation of results for deriving action measures”, Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht, Deputy Director of the University Library, reported.

From this emerged a strategy document comprising of more than 40 pages which was presented in summary to the Library Board of Chemnitz University of Technology in December 2024 and was highly appreciated. The short version of the strategic approaches may now be read on the Library-website mentioned above. “I am very delighted that we completed the strategy development process as scheduled so that we may now, right in time of the year of the Capital of Culture, proceed on our way to a 5D-Library” Malz says. In the mid of the strategy period, a mid-term assessment of the way to the “5D-Library” is envisaged where again adherents of Chemnitz University of Technology and external Library users will be asked for their engagement.

(Translation: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht)

On 13th June 2024, the Student Buddy Program of the International Office celebrated its 25th anniversary with a party at the Club der Kulturen (CdK). More than 90 persons celebrated the diversity and cosmopolitanism represented by the Student Buddy Program of Chemnitz University of Technology on this special occasion. For 25 years, the Student Buddy Program has contributed to intercultural exchange and paved the way for international friendships. The anniversary focused on the diverse international campus community of TU Chemnitz. Among the participants were international students, current and former local buddies (“mentors”) and buddies. Representatives from the Foreign Language Center, the Career Service and the Student Service Organization Chemnitz-Zwickau, among others, who are important stakeholders for international students.

Various activities ensured a cheerful and exuberant atmosphere: The guests were able to put their knowledge of the Student Buddy Program to the test in a quiz.  Moreover, a special highlight of the evening was the opportunity to capture the best memories from 25 years of Student Buddy Program on postcards and thus look back on the various excursions, shared experiences and new friendships formed through the program. The participants were also able to create new memories in a large picture frame. In keeping with the spirit of the Student Buddy Program, this gave the celebration a personal and unique character.

"TU Chemnitz thanks all voluntarily engaged students in the Student Buddy Program. Thanks to their diverse involvement and commitment, they play a vital role in shaping the study time of their international fellow students at TU Chemnitz and create lasting memories", says Dr. Benny Liebold, Managing Director of the International Office at TU Chemnitz.

Background: The Student Buddy Program

For many years, TU Chemnitz has offered various programs to support international students and Phd-Students in the area of incoming, including the Student Buddy Program. The aim of the Student Buddy Program is to arrange informal mentorings between local and international students and to organize excursions and events that promote exchange between students from abroad and local students at TU Chemnitz as well as the better integration of international students in Chemnitz. The program is very popular. Each semester, 50 students of TU Chemnitz voluntarily engaged as local buddies. To become part of the international campus community, interested students of TU Chemnitz can find more information on the website of the Student Buddy Program. (https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/international/incoming/patenprogramm/index.php.en)

For further information please contact Susan Kuchs, tel. +49 371 531-37993, email: susan.kuchs@iuz.tu-chemnitz.de.

(Authors: Susann Kuchs, Jennifer Bosniatzki)

Together with members of the university, graduates, and local residents, the pre-Christmas season will be celebrated - a cherished tradition at Chemnitz University of Technology. On December 6, 2023, the TUC Christmas Market will take place on the square and in the foyer of the Central Lecture Hall and Seminar Building at Reichenhainer Straße 90. All visitors can experience a colorful program from 12:00 to 20:00. The TU Big Band and the University Choir will provide musical accompaniment for the day. The choir of the campus kindergarten "Krabbelkäfer" will also have its big performance and put together a colorful Christmas program. Younger guests of the TUC Christmas Market can look forward to a crafting street. With AOK Plus, Christmas baubles can be decorated on site. There is also the opportunity to prove yourself in a virtual snowball fight at a virtual reality station. The Techniker Krankenkasse offers a Christmas photo activity. Once again this year, there will be carriage rides across the campus.

At the TUC Christmas Market, student initiatives and central facilities of Chemnitz University of Technology will also present themselves. The Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau and Le Parisien (restaurant run by TUC alumnus Mohamed Amine Bani from Tunisia) invite you to enjoy Christmas treats and mulled wine.

From TUC Candle Arches to TUC Christmas Baubles

Those who still need a warm piece of clothing for the cold days can take a look directly at the Unishop stand. The Unishop has also expanded its Christmas range: In addition to the TUC candle arches with the Böttcher-Bau motif, the shop will also offer high-quality TUC Christmas baubles made of glass. These will be available from December 6, 2023, at the TUC Christmas Market, in the Unishop, and at the Universitas bookstore. Until December 5, 2023, the TUC Christmas baubles can be pre-ordered in the online shop via email at unishop@tu-chemnitz.de. With the early bird discount of 15 percent, they cost 5.00 euros instead of 5.90 euros per piece.

Further information: https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/weihnachtsmarkt

Contact: Julita Schmidt, Event Organization and Merchandising Department, tel. 0371 531-11111, email event@tu-chemnitz.de

A successful start to studies is essential for academic success. To make it easier for the first-semester students at Chemnitz University of Technology to start their studies, an introductory week will take place from October 2 to 6, 2023. During this orientation period (in short: "O-Phase"), students are provided with numerous offers. The newly enrolled students get insights into their respective courses of study, can make initial contacts with their fellow students, and get to know the campus and the city. Registration is required for some events – which can be done on the websites of the respective departments, central institutions, or faculties. A comprehensive overview of the introductory week can be found on the website of the Central Course Guidance Service: https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/studentenservice/zsb/start/.

Another guide for the beginning of studies is the brochure "Start Winter Semester 2023/2024". This guide, specifically designed for new students, contains relevant information for a smooth start to their studies. It includes, among other things, a checklist, important contact details for various areas of the university, advisory services, information about the student ID and the annual and cultural ticket, tips for creating a timetable, maps, and many useful links.

An ideal platform for further exchange and networking with the university is available – not only for first-year students – on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Mastodon and YouTube.

For more information about studying at Chemnitz University of Technology: https://www.studium-in-chemnitz.de

Contact: Central Course Guidance Service of Chemnitz University of Technology, tel. 0371 531-55555, email studienberatung@tu-chemnitz.de

(Author: Mario Steinebach / Translation: Brent Benofsky)

In April 2023, a steering group was established at Chemnitz University of Technology to become a Fairtrade University, after both the Senate of Chemnitz University of Technology and the student body had previously passed a resolution to it. The steering group includes Tobias Vogel and Claudia Böttger (Department of Ecology and Sustainability of the Student Council of Chemnitz University of Technology), Thomas Land (University Administration), and Pierre Pätzold (Head of University Catering, Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau). Other members are Prof. Dr. Marlen Gabriele Arnold (Professorship of Corporate Environmental Management and Sustainability of Chemnitz University of Technology), Dr. Jan Reißmann (Professorship of Machine Elements and Product Development), Dr. André Matthes (Professorship of Textile Technologies) and Julita Schmidt (Department of Event Management and Merchandising).

"Now the aim is to fill university life with the idea of fair trade. This means preferring products from fair trade at regular meetings and public events, placing fair trade products in university shops or vending machines, and organising four events around the topic of fair trade per year," Arnold describes the way forward and adds: "We are also very pleased about the targeted support of the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau by offering corresponding products in the university catering facilities. In the dining halls and cafeterias, fair trade teas and sugar sticks have now been added to the range of sweets, coffee and soft drinks. Further products such as rice, quinoa, bananas and cocoa are also being tested."

Members and affiliates of Chemnitz University of Technology are now called upon to actively engage with the topic of fair trade, to reflect on their buying and consumption behavior in the university environment and to actively replace products with fair trade products. "Striving for the Fairtrade University label is a step towards more sustainability in our higher education landscape - and should also encourage consumption that is regional, ecological or organic and low in greenhouse gas emissions," says Arnold. She adds: "We would be delighted if we could learn when and where particular fair trade products are used at regular meetings at Chemnitz University of Technology and ask for feedback at nachhaltigkeit@tu-chemnitz.de."

The steering group aims to meet twice per semester. The leadership and organization of the meetings will be taken over by the student body. "Ideas and suggestions are always welcome," says Arnold.

Contact the steering group: e-mail oekologie@stura.tu-chemnitz.de

Background: Fairtrade University

Any college, technical college or university in Germany can apply to become a Fairtrade University. To be awarded the title of Fairtrade University by Fairtrade Deutschland e. V., the institution must demonstrably meet five criteria that reflect commitment to fair trade at various levels. This includes the university jointly committing to promoting fair trade through a university resolution and establishing a steering group at the university. In addition, fair trade products should be sold at events and used in catering services. The final criterion requires the university to actively promote fair trade in public relations.

(Author: Mario Steinebach / Translation: Brent Benofsky)

In the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau, students who find themselves in financial difficulties through no fault of their own can apply for hardship loans or grants. As students are currently particularly hard hit by the rise in prices, the Saxon Minister of Science, Sebastian Gemkow, announced at the end of February 2023 that the emergency funds of the Saxon student unions would be increased if necessary.

Hardship funds are a long-standing, integral part of the support services offered by student unions to students in financial need. Funds from the loan and hardship funds are usually issued as non-interest bearing repayable loans so that they are recouped and available for issuance over and over again. In cases of hardship, these financial aid funds may also be awarded as grants. The granting of these funds is linked to a personal application in which the students prove that they have fallen into the emergency situation through no fault of their own, that they have no other financing options and that the continuation of their studies or graduation is at risk. The Saxon Ministry of Science intends to increase the emergency funds as needed so that no one has to give up their studies because of rising living costs.

Social loans are interest-free and limited to a maximum of 500 euros per month. For short-term loans (up to 3 months), a maximum total of 1,500 euros applies. Medium-term loans (up to 6 months) are granted up to a total amount of 3,000 euros. In addition, there is also the semester fee loan, which can be used specifically to finance the semester fee in connection with enrollment. As a rule, the loans must be covered by collateral from the applicant, i.e. either he or she must have a claim to educational funding (BAföG) or provide a guarantor for the repayment of the loan. The amount and the repayment modalities are agreed upon when the loan agreement is concluded according to the student's individual situation.

Students receive particularly low-threshold support through the Studentenwerk's free meal vouchers: the free warm meal per day helps to bridge situations in which money is too tight even for food. The free meal vouchers are issued at the Studentenwerk's social counseling centers upon an informal application. They can be redeemed in all refectories and cafeterias of the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau.

Further information and details can be found in the Sozialleistungsordnung (PDF 499 kB) of the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau. Interested parties can find these as well as the contact persons for a personal consultation here. 

Since the aforementioned support offers apply to special hardship cases and do not relieve the broad mass of students, the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau, together with the other student unions and the Conference of Saxon Student Bodies, continues to lobby the responsible ministries at the federal and state level for additional relief and low-threshold financial aid for students, such as a 29-euro educational ticket valid throughout Germany and further measures to compensate for inflation.

(Source: Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau / Translation: Brent Benofsky)

On December 21, 2022, the federal law on the payment of a one-time energy price allowance for students (EPPSG) came into force. The law provides for the one-time payment of 200 euros to students and doctoral candidates who were enrolled as of the cut-off date of December 1, 2022 and who have their permanent residence or habitual residence in the Federal Republic of Germany.

The application for the payment can be submitted starting from March 15, 2023 via the centrally provided internet portal www.einmalzahlung200.de. To submit the application, a BundID account is required, for which one must register here: https://id.bund.de/de/registration/eID.

With the help of the BundID as well as an access code and a PIN, which are provided to the eligible persons by the Student Services of Chemnitz University of Technology, the application for the payment can be submitted via the aforementioned portal. Eligible students only need the PIN if they do not have another electronic ID, such as the online ID function or eID function of their ID card or their personal ELSTER certificate. Eligible students who are enrolled until March 31, 2023 will receive an e-mail from the Student Services of Chemnitz University of Technology with all relevant information in the next few days. Eligible students who exmatriculated after December 1, 2022 and cannot be reached via their TUC email will be notified by letter.

Students who are eligible to apply but cannot obtain their access code or PIN, or who have not received a letter, can also obtain both in person at Chemnitz University of Technology's Student Services (Böttcher-Bau, Straße der Nationen 62, 09111 Chemnitz) upon presentation of an official photo ID (original passport or ID card).

If you have any questions regarding the provision of access codes or PINs, please contact the staff at Student Services via e-mail at studierendenservice@tu-chemnitz.de or by telephone at +49 371 531-33333.

As the responsible authority in the Free State of Saxony, the Studentenwerk Dresden handles the application processing for students. Anyone with questions can contact einmalzahlung200@studentenwerk-dresden.de.

Additional information on the energy price allowance can be found in the central FAQ on the one-time payment for students and the FAQ of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).

(Article: Mario Steinebach / Translation: Brent Benofksy)

The start of the winter semester 2022/23 is approaching, but some prospective students still have the question: Where to live? The dormitories of the Chemnitz-Zwickau Studentenwerk in Chemnitz offer a very affordable option. Rents currently range from 179.50 euros to 276.50 euros, depending on room type and furnishings, and are thus well below the current BAföG flat-rate housing allowance of 360 euros. "In addition to fast internet and building maintenance service, this already includes all ancillary costs, including electricity and heating, in contrast to the free housing market. Despite rising energy prices, no tenant in our residence halls need fear an additional payment; our flat rents offer full cost control without expensive surprises. We can guarantee stable rents for students until the end of the year. Depending on the further development of energy prices, we expect an increase in the flat rate for ancillary costs for the new year, but will still be able to offer our rooms well below the BAföG flat rate for housing costs," says Vicky Loske, press spokesperson for the Chemnitz-Zwickau Studentenwerk. You also do not have to worry about the purchase of furniture, a refrigerator, etc. The rooms are already fully furnished. Rooms with washing machines and dryers in the building as well as plenty of recreational facilities are further advantages of dormitory living.

The fact that Chemnitz is a particularly favorable study location is also underscored by the latest "Hochschulstädte-Scoring" of the Moses Mendelssohn Institute and the portal WG-Gesucht.de. On average, the cost of a room in a shared apartment in the 95 cities surveyed with more than 5,000 students is 435 euros. In Munich, a comparable shared apartment rent has already risen to 700 euros, well above the BAföG flat rate for housing costs. In Chemnitz, the average rent is far more affordable at 250 euros.

Those interested in living in the student dormitories on the campus of Chemnitz University of Technology can get an impression of the dorm rooms in the 360-degree tours at www.swcz.de/wohnen and apply online. In addition, the Chemnitz-Zwickau Studentenwerk offers many videos and recorded live tours of the individual residence halls on its Instagram channel.

Further information on the Chemnitz-Zwickau Studentenwerk and the dormitories: www.swcs.de/wohnen.

(Translation: Brent Benofsky)

The Abitur is in hand - and now to study at the Chemnitz University of Technology! But which course of study is right for me? Which requirements do I have to fulfill? What can I experience in my free time in Chemnitz, the European Capital of Culture 2025, besides studying? These and many other questions will be answered at the University Information Day on June 11, 2022 in the new University Library of Chemnitz University of Technology in the heart of the city. The Central Course Guidance Service, numerous subject advisors as well as student initiatives and specialist groups will be on hand to answer questions and give prospective students an insight into student life in Chemnitz. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., there will be a lot of useful information at the information booths of all faculties and in lectures - not only about the 97 bachelor, master, diploma and teaching degree programs of Chemnitz University of Technology. Information will also be provided on internships, career prospects, financing studies, living on campus and studying abroad.

Multiple award-winning university library as central event venue

"We are delighted to be able to welcome the students in person to our newly renovated library building and have also planned guided tours for them so that they can get to know this special place of learning even better," says Susann Kappler from the TUCdiscover team, which is playing a key role in organizing the day. "Guests at the University Information Day will also be able to see for themselves the impressive design of the historical industrial building at Straße der Nationen 33, which has already won two architecture awards in recent months," adds her colleague Monique Reuther.

Sporty, tasteful and surprising

On the forecourt of the university library, you can also engage in sports during the five-hour "info marathon" or strengthen yourself with a snack at the stand of the Chemnitz-Zwickau Student Union, with smoothies or with ice cream scoops in Chemnitz University of Technology colors. By the way, the first 300 ice cream scoops are free of charge. In addition, all prospective students will receive a TUC surprise bag. The event will be supported musically by Radio UNiCC.

Mechanical engineering experience route has 17 stations

Those who would like to experience the study contents of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering in particular can gain insights into the diverse world of mechanical engineering at 17 stations on the campus on Reichenhainer Straße from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. - from virtual technologies to offers for do-it-yourself production to numerous demonstrations such as the printed loudspeakers, a varied program will be offered.

Orientation guide on the net

If you would like to find out about the 97 bachelor's, master's, diploma and teaching degree programs at Chemnitz University of Technology beforehand, you should click through the new study opportunities website. Further information on the study programs as well as on various topics concerning the choice of studies can be found here: https://www.study-in-chemnitz.com.

Program of the University Information Day at a glance

Anyone who wants to hear, see and ask as many questions as possible on June 11 should put together an individual program beforehand. It is worth taking a look online, where the complete program of the university information day TUCdiscover will be published on https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/tuctag. Those wishing to participate in program events on the campus on Reichenhainer Straße should allow about 30 minutes for the change of location from the university library. The streetcar connects both venues directly.

For further information, please contact the staff of the TUCdiscover project, Monique Reuther, e-mail monique.reuther@verwaltung.tu-chemnitz.de, and Susann Kappler, e-mail susann.kappler@verwaltung.tu-chemnitz.de.

Contact the Central Student Guidance Service of Chemnitz University of Technology: phone +49 (0) 371 531-55555, e-mail studienberatung@tu-chemnitz.de

(Note: This message from Mai 19 is continuously updated by the TUCdiscover team. Last update: June 2)

(Translation: Brent Benofsky)

Where can I find a new part-time job and quickly find an alternative for my planned internship? Will I make the deadline for my term paper? Do I have enough time to prepare for my exams? What will happen after graduation? Questions upon questions - and you are already brooding about the current situation or the future and can hardly concentrate on your studies. Such thoughts often intensify due to the Corona pandemic and its associated loneliness.

Need for counseling increases during the pandemic

The Psychosocial Counseling Center at Chemnitz University of Technology and the Psychological Counseling Service at the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau are receiving an increasing number of requests for consultation from people who are suffering from the pandemic-related restrictions and challenges. "The contact restrictions, the lack of activities outside of one's own home, the changed academic situation, and the pressures of working from home often lead to loneliness. Foreign students and people with a migration background suffer from this in particular," says Prof. Dr. Stephan Mühlig, holder of the Chair of Clinical Psychology at Chemnitz University of Technology and head of the university’s Psychosocial Counseling Center. Frequently, people seeking counseling were already suffering from psychological problems, such as depression, anxiety, or panic, before the pandemic, but these conditions have intensified due to the pandemic-related restrictions. Those who are unable to find a psychotherapy appointment quickly are taking advantage of counseling as a stop-gap measure. There is also an increased need for counseling for people with academic problems and crises which had already developed before the Corona pandemic but have increased under the current conditions. These include stress, test anxiety, and being overwhelmed, as well as a lack of structure.

“Since the beginning of the year, about eight people a week have been contacting the university's psychosocial counseling center with questions and concerns or the desire to seek psychosocial counseling," reports Luise Kuzmowicz from the university counseling center. "At the Studentenwerk, there are about 18 people in Chemnitz alone who contact me seeking advice each month," adds psychological counselor Tina Horlitz, head of Social Services/Culture at the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau. In recent months, the psychologist has noticed that students are increasingly turning to her with problems that normally only lead to a slight feeling of insecurity. "Now, in such situations, they need counseling once or twice to regain their footing and be able to act independently," Horlitz says. That could be a phenomenon of an overall uncertain time. Otherwise she has made similar observations to those made by the university counselors.

From individual counseling via videoconferencing to counseling walks and the "Counselors Chapter”

At Chemnitz University of Technology, individual counseling sessions currently take place primarily by videoconference with telephone sessions taking place in a few cases. Initial contact can also be made via e-mail. The Studentenwerk’s Psychological Counseling Service offers counseling walks during the pandemic. "Many students don't want to talk when family or flatmates could listen in. We solve that by meeting in person outdoors in quiet places near campus chosen by those seeking counseling," Horlitz said. The "Counselors Chapter" was developed for international students in particular: "Students seeking advice can use the e-mail address psb-chemnitz@swcz.de to make an appointment for telephone counselling. Afterwards, individually tailored material is sent to them by e-mail, followed by a follow-up counseling session by phone," Horlitz explains. This is intended to provide resources for self-help with regard to a wide range of topics including life crises and living with the corona situation, exam and other fears, emotional instability, loneliness, and academic motivation. Additionally, the material provides resources for supporting oneself in a goal- and solution-oriented fashion. It is also intended to offer - especially to international students - German or English vocabulary to describe their inner world.

Well networked in psychotherapy

It is important for both counseling centers at the university and the Studentenwerk to always clearly communicate that psychological counseling is not a substitute for psychotherapy. "If there are indications of clinically relevant symptoms, we arrange contact with outpatient psychotherapists near the student’s place of residence, for example at the Psychotherapeutic University Outpatient Clinic at Chemnitz University of Technology, with inpatient facilities, or with self-help groups," says Mühlig. The Psychological Counseling Service at the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau also works with cooperating practices, some of which specialize in student concerns.

Background: Psychosocial Counseling Center at Chemnitz University of Technology

The Psychosocial Counseling Center at Chemnitz University of Technology is a professional contact point for those seeking help and advice in mostly acute stress or crisis situations with problems below the diagnostic threshold of a mental disorder.  The program is directed to all students and employees of Chemnitz University of Technology but is also open to non-university young people and adults from the region, as far as capacities allow.

Contact and additional information: Luise Kuzmowicz, Nicola Hauptmann, and Marlene Schmidt (starting May 2021), phone: 0371 531-28404, e-mail: psb@psychologie.tu-chemnitz.de

Background: Psychological Counseling at the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau

The Psychological Counseling Service at the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau helps those with crises in studies, identity and orientation problems, concentration difficulties, exam nerves or work disorders, loneliness, and contact problems, as well as partnership and relationship conflicts with personal and confidential conversations.

Contact and additional information: Tina Horlitz, Psychological Counselor and Head of Social Services/Culture at the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau, phone: 0371 5628-120, e-mail: psb-chemnitz@swcz.de

(Author: Mario Steinebach / Translation: Chelsea Burris)

(Press release from the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau dated February 16, 2021 with additions from Chemnitz University of Technology).

After about 20 years, the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau’s canteen on Reichenhainer Straße, part of the campus at Chemnitz University of Technology, will be extensively renovated and expanded. The work, which in addition to an expansion of the canteen also includes the redesign of the serving area and the lounge areas inside as well as additional outdoor seating, began in the sixth week of 2021.

The wishes and suggestions from the last canteen survey in 2018 as well as the Campusplatz survey were taken into account in the planning as far as was technically and financially feasible. The canteen is scheduled to reopen in October 2021. The canteen's hours of operation and reopening are unclear at this time due to the ongoing pandemic. Measures to prepare for the canteen conversion started taking place in July 2020. The costs of 2.1 million euros for conversion and renovation are borne entirely by the Free State of Saxony.

This renovation will also increase the quality of life at Chemnitz University of Technology’s Campusplatz. In the short term, two table tennis tables are to be installed as early as April 2021. The necessary equipment and other outdoor games have already been procured and can be borrowed starting in the summer of 2021 from the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau in the cafeteria building if the pandemic allows.

Concerning additional measures for the design of the Campusplatz, Prof. Dr. Marlen Gabriele Arnold, holder of the Professorship for Corporate Environmental Management and Sustainability and University Commissioner for Sustainable Campus Development (https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/tu/pressestelle/aktuell/10354), and Facility Management as well as the student initiatives NATUC and Students for Future are in discussion with the city of Chemnitz and the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau. "We are very pleased that two table tennis tables and a variety of outdoor games have already been purchased from the budget made available as part of the Sustainable Campusplatz Design initiative," says Prof. Arnold.

Modernization and expansion - more outdoor seating and shade

As part of the renovation, the rooms will be modernized and the canteen will offer a larger fresh menu all day. To achieve this, the space formerly occupied by an Edeka has been divided into two separate store units. A retail store will move back into the larger retail space. The travel agency, which has been in the building for many years, moved into the smaller space in November 2020. The space freed up by the travel agency's move will now be used to expand the canteen. This will allow for the creation of a second entrance facing Reichenhainer Straße.

The renovation will expand the seating options both indoors and outdoors. Plans call for 48 tables indoors and nine tables outdoors. In the indoor area, some of the tables and seats will be fixed fixtures, while mobile seating is planned for the outdoor area. A variety of table sizes are also planned. A total of 190 seats will be available in the canteen. Shade options are also planned for the new outdoor area.

For additional information, please contact Vicky Loske, Head of Communications / Continuing Education at the Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau, Tel: +49 371/56 28-126, E-mail: vicky.loske@swcz.de.

(Author: Matthias Fejes / Translation: Chelsea Burris)

Bachelors and Masters students at Chemnitz University of Technology will work on the first Chemnitz University Sustainability Report over the course of the next four semesters. This project was initiated by Prof. Dr. Marlen Arnold, Chair of the Professorship of Corporate Environmental Management and Sustainability, and she now leads the project. “In particular, this project is about identifying relevant sustainability indicators at Chemnitz University in the areas of ecology, economics and social affairs, as well as teaching, research and transfer,” says Arnold. The students will also analyse how sustainability is already being handled at the university, and where there exists the potential for development. “The project also takes into account the goals, measures and indicators of the Saxon state strategy for Education for Sustainable Development (BNE),” adds Arnold.

“The project, supported by the Rectorate of Chemnitz University, makes it clear that sustainability is a very important issue for the university – especially with regard to its own structures and processes,” says Prof. Dr. Gerd Strohmeier, President of Chemnitz University. Of particular importance to the President is the involvement of students and a broad, interested university public. “Any interested students who would like to volunteer, as well as interested members of the university community, are cordially invited to actively participate in the drafting of the first Chemnitz University Sustainability Report,” says Strohmeier. The “Sustainability” working group at the university, in which university employees and students from as many diverse backgrounds as possible collaborate, engage and regularly exchange ideas, should form an ideal platform for this project. A workshop will take place on 25 June 2019 from 9am until 12pm, and it will be supervised and moderated by employees of the university project “Sustainability at Universities: Developing – Networking – Reporting (HOCHN)”. “Engaged and interested members of any and all areas of Chemnitz University of Technology and Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau, as well as anyone who wants to actively develop and support sustainability in and around the campus can gladly participate in this workshop,” says Arnold. To register for the workshop, please e-mail Prof. Arnold directly (marlen.arnold@wirtschaft.tu-chemnitz.de).

Keyword: Sustainability Report

Sustainability reports are instruments that monitor developments in sustainability, for example from companies and universities, and also facilitate comparisons. However, there is no uniform international standard for reporting on sustainability at universities. The instruments currently available are the so-called University Sustainability Codex (HS-DNK) and a position paper published by “netzwerkes n”. “Nationwide, only about five percent of all universities currently report sustainability, in Saxony, sustainability reports either from or about universities are quite underrepresented,” says Arnold.

Contact: Prof. Dr. Marlen Gabriele Arnold, Chair of the Professorship for Corporate Environmental Management and Sustainability, e-mail marlen.arnold@wirtschaft.tu-chemnitz.de, phone +49 371 531-31120

(Translation: Jeffrey Karnitz)

After eleven months of construction, the “Campulino” Daycare Center, located directly on the Chemnitz University campus and operated by Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau, was officially opened on July 12, 2018. Construction began on August 11, 2017 and cost approximately 2.7 million euros. The “Campulino” daycare center’s goal is to encourage children’s team spirit and investigative nature. Prof. Dr. Gerd Strohmeier emphasizes the daycare center’s importance for Chemnitz University and for Chemnitz as a city: “The compatibility of family and career is one of our key priorities at Chemnitz University. At this point, almost ten percent of our students have children and demand for daycare services has increased substantially in the last two years. I am very pleased to announce that the “Campulino” daycare center will make these services available to even more families and we will better be able to meet the standards we have set for ourselves as a family-friendly university.” Following his speech, the University President presented the center with 100 bibs for the children to use.

In her address, Saxony’s Minister of Higher Education, Research and the Arts, Dr. Eva-Maria Stange underlined the significance of the on-campus daycare center: “This daycare center run by Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau is a good example of how student unions in Saxony can establish a social infrastructure framework that enables students to focus on their studies and successfully complete their degrees. Chemnitz University of Technology can continue to endeavor to meet their standards as a family-friendly university and other Chemnitz residents are also invited to take advantage of this offer. With this coalition agreement, we hope to support students’ ability to balance academics with family life and to continually improve in our efforts.

For the city of Chemnitz, the new daycare center helps to ease the problem of high demand for daycare places, says Mayor Barbara Ludwig: “Chemnitz is growing – through more births and people moving into the city. The city is reacting this trend by expanding education facilities. Independent sponsors represent an important cornerstone in the effort to provide sufficient places in childcare facilities. I would like to thank Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau for their audacity, dedication and commitment to this endeavor.”

Proven Pedagogical Concept

The concept is based on the “Reggio Approach”, according to daycare director Katja Weinhold: “This means that children will determine their own development through their curiosity and creativity. They are allowed and encouraged to decide for themselves how they would like to spend their time. Often, they create projects and creative works based on collections of found objects and everyday items.” The teachers are therefore also companions on the children’s learning and exploration journey and offer opportunities for play and the essential basic conditions. Children are encouraged to construct their own toys according to their own imaginations. “We always attempt to interact with the children on their level and support them in whatever they are doing. We are always reflecting on the pedagogical process,” says Katja Weinhold.

The facilities are adapted to meet the pedagogical specifications. A large “piazza” in the middle of the building invites visitors to participate in a common exchange and to spend time together. The rooms are designed in an open format and are decorated with the children’s art projects. These “talking walls” are found throughout the building and they serve to document everyday life in the daycare center.

After a “settling in” phase, 17 teachers will care for 100 children. The places were assigned in a very short period of time. Applications from students and Chemnitz University members were assigned a higher priority. In addition, Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau has arranged an agreement with the Fraunhofer Institutes for daycare places. Applications for the center are also accepted via Chemnitz’s “Kita-Portal”.

“Campulino” is open from 7 am through 6 pm, corresponding to everyday university life. Minister Stange praised these operating hours: “The Saxon State Ministry of Higher Education, Research and the Arts is concerned with supporting scientists as they pursue their career paths. Oftentimes, they feel they are forced to choose between having a family and having a career. I hope that daycare centers like “Campulino”, whose opening hours are adapted to meet the demands of university operations, will help to ease some of this pressure.”

More information is available from: Ulf Walther, Director of Communications, Tel.: +49 371/628-126 // +49 172 9435 882, E-mail: ulf.walther@swcz.de

Background: Naming of the Daycare Center

The name “Campulino” emerged as a result of a competition among employees of Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau. It is intended to emphasize the closeness of the center to the university environment. The name is also intended to be understood across languages and borders, as children from 18 countries will attend “Campulino”.

Background: Family-friendly University

Chemnitz University was designated Saxony’s first family-friendly university. The audit was completed in 2007 and has since been re-confirmed multiple times. In June 2018, the university also signed the “Family in Higher Education Institutions” charter and reaffirmed its commitment to pursing ambitious standards in family-orientation.

Notice: This University News report is based on a press-release from Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau.

(Translation: Sarah Wilson)

The newly redesigned landing page of the “Studying in Chemnitz” information portal (www.studium-in-chemnitz.de) is online. The portal is intended to help secondary school students and others interested in studying at Chemnitz University of Technology find more information about their path to enrollment and selecting the right course of studies. The site also offers support to new university students as they begin their academic career at the uni as well as additional information and tips on other relevant topics in a clearly marked and organized format. Such categories include “Find your bearings and make your choice”, “Apply”, “Get started and settle in”, “Join in, sign up and learn for life,” and “Take your next steps”.

Find the Answers to Your Questions

Each of these five categories are introduced by Chemnitz University students. Susanne Martin is the “central” face of “Studying in Chemnitz”. The student of European Studies with distinctive red hair is glad that she can help future students find their path to success at the university: “When I was beginning my studies, I wished I had had something like this. I think the design turned out really nice and the website is structured in a logical way. I especially like that it features cultural opportunities in the city, life in Chemnitz and the time after you finish your studies,” said Martin.

Tobias Bauer, Director of the Central Course Guidance Service, also voiced his praise for the new website: “We are pleased to say that the new landing page is an excellent addition to the information and advisory services that have thus far been available to future, new and current students.” Particularly in the orientation phase, it is important for students to ask themselves many questions: Is studying the right choice for me? What course of studies suits me best? Is Chemnitz the right choice of location for my academic career? “The landing page deliberately poses these questions and refers readers to the answers that Chemnitz University has prepared. The linked pages are written with our audience in mind,” concludes Bauer.

Feedback Appreciated

Over the new few weeks, additional videos will be produced and photos will be added. The TU4U Project Team welcomes feedback and responses to the landing page. Comments can be emailed to tu4u@tu-chemnitz.de. “Here you can also pose questions that have not been answered yet on our website,” said TU4U Project Coordinator Dr. Maria Worf.

More information is available from Dr. Maria Worf, Tel: 0049 371 531-36785, E-mail: maria.worf@hrz.tu-chemnitz.de.

(Translation: Sarah Wilson)

It is going to be the mainstay of the Chemnitz University of Technology at Reichenhainer Straße: the new campus plaza between the auditorium building, Weinhold building, the canteen, and the dormitories in Thüringer Weg. The campus plaza will be greener, safer due to traffic calming, and invites to linger for a while due to its replanting and new lighting concept.

Seamless route from local to long-distance transport

The construction work on the Reichenhainer Straße are not only part of the masterplan for the location development of the university but also a part of the so-called “Chemnitz Model”. The vision of the aspiring and innovative project: a seamless route from local to long-distance transport. With the linking of tram and railway lines, the Chemnitz model offers an effective and cost-efficient – as it is a direct – route between the main center Chemnitz and the surrounding area. As the train cannot stop everywhere, bus stops close to the train stations offer short changeover paths to the local bus lines. “The model does not only strengthen Chemnitz and the surrounding areas but it also sets national standards for an ecologic and economic reasonable mobility”, Chemnitz head mayor Barbara Ludwig states.

The complete costs for the project are approximately 300 million euros. The soon to begin construction work at Reichenhainer Straße amounts to 3,5 million euros and accounts for over 10% of the complete budget. Involved in the financing of the project are the EU, the federal government and the Free State of Saxony. The Verkehrsverbund Mittelsachsen (VMS) is in the leading role. For the concrete realization of the project the VMS cooperates with the City of Chemnitz, the Deutsche Bahn, the CVAG, and the designers and construction firms.

Region – Main Station – Campus

The ceremonial opening of the first step took place on October 10, 2016. Since then, the cities of Burgstädt, Mittweida and Hainichen have a direct traffic service via the main station Chemnitz to the central station in hourly intervals. Now, the Chemnitz University of Technology will be included into this fast-travel network. Trains coming from Burgstädt, Mittweida and Hainichen are then able to run up to the campus of the university. Another feature: As well as locally as on the railway lines a barrier-free passenger exchange will be made possible.

With this new step, we will increase the connectivity between our university and many cities throughout the region. Furthermore, we also increase the attractiveness of the Chemnitz University of Technology as well as to contribute to a higher quality of dwell time on our campus”, underlines Eberhard Alles, Chancelor of the Chemnitz University.

The new campus plaza: Bringing together that belongs together

The new plaza is going to be build between the auditorium building N, by the Chemnitz university members affectionately called “Orangery” due to its prominent facade, the Weinhold building and the canteen. A grid of approx. 62 plane trees will provide a green roof with shadowed areas. In addition, on the new campus plaza pedestrians take precedence. Cars and public transport can drive by with significantly reduced speed. The design follows the concept of “Shared Space” a collectively used space for different transport users. The momentarily by the Reichenhainer Straße divided areas grow together and provide a free, uniform space. Dark exposed concrete and seat covers made from wood are the new and uniform furnishing, completing the design and offering various spaces to linger and stay. Additionally, bicycle racks add to the equipment of the plaza. Shining steles guarantee a safe passage and linger spot also at night.

Upgrading works from March till December

In order to realize the expansion of the barrier-free fast-travel network as well as the upgrade on the campus plaza until December 2017, the construction works and therefore the traffic calming will start on March 6, 2017. Affected is the section of the Reichenhainer Sraße beginning from Dittesstraße to Wartburg Straße and will also interfere with the road, bicycle, and bus line traffic. The goods transport will be redirected over the Wartburg and Bernsdorfer Straße. Not affected is the ambulance service. An alternative parking spot will be set up at the level of the research hall of the Federal Cluster of Excellence MERGE at the beginning of March. Bicycle traffic will be rerouted over Fraunhofer and Rosenbergstraße. Access traffic of cars and bicycles will be redirected over the 6,50 m wide central strip on the Reichenhainer Straße starting on march 6, 2017. As it is still a construction site it is important to follow the specified routes. Construction barriers are for your own safety and are not to be passed.

Further changes also impair the line traffic of the CVAG from March till December: Affected are the bus lines 22, 51 and N14. Line 51 will already be redirected on February 27, 2017. In the area of the Reichenhainer Straße the lines 51 and N14 will be diverted in both directions over Wartburg and Bernsdorfer Straße. Compensating bus stops will be erected in the Dittess- and Wartburgstraße. In the area of the Südbahnhof, line 22 will stay in its usual route until the roundabout is finished.

Information regarding the current construction developments can be viewed on the Blog of the Department of Facility and Technical Management at the Chemnitz University of Technology: mytuc.org/pndn. Furthermore, the Chemnitz University informs its members over posters in the auditorium building.

On current changes in the timetable or in bus line traffic informs the CVAG: http://bit.ly/2lBB04G

Further information on the Chemnitz Model: http://www.chemnitzer-modell.de/

Schnitzel with french fries or maybe soy-veggie-Bolognese with hash brown potatoes instead? A current study of students’ eating habits in Chemnitz and Zwickau shows that more and more Mensa guests prefer vegetarian and vegan dishes. However, the proportion of meat-eaters is still high. The Chemnitz-Zwickau Student Union responds to the changing demand with a wider range of meal options.

43 percent of students polled said that they eat meat. 47 percent described themselves as flexitarians – that is, they only eat meat on rare occasions and when it is of very high quality. Seven percent eat a vegetarian diet and one percent strictly vegan. The group made up of flexigans – people who mostly eat a vegan diet, provided there is a reasonable alternative available – make up three percent. “Since September of 2013, we have offered one vegan and at least one additional vegetarian dish almost every day in our Chemnitz Mensas,” says Pierre Pätzold, Director of the Higher Education Catering Department of the Chemnitz-Zwickau Student Union. “However, schnitzel, currywurst and burgers are still the most popular in their original versions.”

This trend can be seen all across Germany: Even though, in a nationwide average, the proportion of vegetarian and vegan meals make up more than 50 percent of all Mensa dishes served, schnitzel or currywurst with french fries are still the top sellers, says Achim Meyer auf der Heyde, Secretary General of the German National Association for Student Affairs (DSW). According to a national study, 82 percent of students eat in the Mensa, primarily at lunchtime and three times per week on average. 37 percent of student Mensa guests are regulars.

Chemnitz Mensa popular at lunchtime

In Chemnitz, it is common to eat in the Mensa: 94 percent of students say they occasionally eat in the Mensa. Around 60 percent are regular guests, however that number has fallen around ten percent since the last survey was conducted in 2012. Only five percent of all 3,500 survey respondents said that they never eat lunch in the Mensa. The number of students who say they never take advantage of breakfast, evening and snack offerings is, however, much higher: over half of students do not visit the Mensa during these times. “We hope to increase the appeal with more up-to-date options,” says Pätzold. “In the future, we want to better meet our guest’s needs and habits with themed evening offers, such as the burger or potato dinners that we already have introduced.”

Satisfaction slightly increased

Compared with the survey results from 2012, the Mensas and Cafeterias in Chemnitz fared a bit better. Particularly the ratings for service and of the locations have improved slightly: Respondents rated employee competence and friendliness as well as wait times and open hours at a 2.2 (2.5 in 2012). For the facilities, they gave a 2.2 (2.3 in 2012). Respondents indicated that there was room for improvement regarding opening hours. 43 percent said that they would use the facilities if they were open during the evening or on the weekend. “We have already taken action on this issue by keeping the Reichenhainer Straße location open later during the exam period,” says Pätzold. “Furthermore, we could consider test openings on certain dates, for example as a study center at the end of the semester or in coordination with a brunch event. In the end, it is up to our guests themselves how sustainable an increase in the opening hours would be in the long term.”

The Chemnitz-Zwickau Student Union runs a Mensa and a Cafeteria on Reichenhainer Straße and on the Straße der Nationen, as well as a Coffeebar in the central lecture hall building on campus. In Zwickau, there are also two Mensas and Cafeterias run by the student union. These facilities can also be used by guests from outside the university. In the Mensa building on Reichenhainer Straße, the student union is pursuing a new concept that puts particular focus on fostering a pleasant atmosphere as well as a flexible and versatile menu.

In total, the 58 combined non-profit student unions under the umbrella of the German National Association for Student Affairs (DSW) operate 955 food service facilities at higher education institutions, including 400 Mensas. Per year, more than 90 million meals are prepared and 200 million snacks are sold in Cafeterias.

More information is available from Sara Schmiedel, Culture and Public Relations Administrator at the Chemnitz-Zwickau Student Union, Telephone 0371 5628-120, E-Mail sara.schmiedel@swcz.de

(Author: Sarah Schmiedel, Translation: Sarah Wilson)

“We got good results this year compared to 2012! In comparison with other student unions as well,” summarizes Dirk Päßler, Housing and Technology Division Manager of the Chemnitz-Zwickau Student Union. Chemnitz scored well on the most recent satisfaction survey conducted in student dormitories across Saxony and Thuringia. A few of the results also provided incentive to take action and make changes. For instance, many of those surveyed reported that they were not well enough informed about the status of their application before they moved into the dormitory. “We have implemented a strategy of sending an informational email to applicants every four weeks. With this system, they can also confirm whether or not they are still interested in a place in the dormitory,” says Päßler. “The majority of residents really appreciate having their own bathroom. We will consider that when we are planning future investments.”

In addition, the survey exposed a higher demand for washing machines. The student union then performed a needs assessment and purchased additional washing machines for student dormitories as well. The student union also wants to rethink its office hours for the Housing and Technology Division, because the survey indicated that most students would prefer to take advantage of longer office hours on Mondays rather than Tuesdays. “But we are also dependent on employees of other divisions,” explains Päßler. However, many students in Saxony and Thuringia tend to prefer navigating the bureaucratic processes online, rather than in person. “Residents prefer to resolve many of their issues on the internet. We are trying to keep up with these trends, but person-to-person contact is still important to overall satisfaction,” explains Päßler. “We make individual decisions. In the end, we work with people.” According to him, it is even possible to accommodate individual requests shortly after moving into the dormitories, such as relocation.

Dormitory Representatives as Mediators

Dirk Päßler and Administrator Angela Todorovic also see potential in working with dormitory representatives, and not only because a few of the positions are currently vacant. “Interestingly, awareness of the representatives grew in 2012 but satisfaction with their work fell,” says Todorovic. Representatives play an important role, not only as a liaison between residents and the student council, but also as a mediator for student conflicts when they arise. The student union works to accommodate and harmonize the many different cultures and customs of residents when allocating room assignments, according to Housing Coordinator Päßler.

Michael Decker of Reichenhainer Straße 35 is a dormitory representative. The computer science student has lived in a 6-person shared apartment for several years now. His approximately 17 m2 room is just a stone’s throw from the Mensa and the lecture hall building. The “PEB” student club and the “mittendrin” movie theater are also located right in his building. Along with low rental costs, the student also especially appreciates one advantage: “As a computer scientist, the affordable and reliable internet is definitely a big plus,” he says with a grin. 22-year-old physics student Maximilian Scharf also lives in a large, multi-cultural shared apartment. His roommates are from Germany, China and India and he says they live together harmoniously. They often cook and eat together, invite students from other apartments to visit and play card games. “One of our traditions is a big Christmas dinner,” says Maximilian Scharf. They set up a big dinner table in the apartment kitchen and celebrate with friends and acquaintances. “We are one circle of friends. This might also partially be because two of us are cousins.” Of course the shared apartment has some structure and rules: cleaning is done by the honor system, but a checklist keeps track of who does the weekly vacuuming and mopping, dirty dishes are not allowed to pile up in the sink and the two bathrooms are strictly divided among the roommates. Maximilian Scharf is also a dormitory representative. “Together we organize grill parties with drinks and music, or campaigns to teach residents how to sort their recycling.”

Life in a Shared Apartment

For most students, their dormitory room is a big first step toward independence, their very first apartment on their own. Finding out who your roommates will be can also be quite suspenseful. For some, it is a stroke of luck: Annika Haenel and Franziska Funke have found the perfect two-person apartment with one another. The 19-year-olds met each other when they moved in during the last winter semester and got along right away. Now the two friends eat, exercise and even go on trips together. Photos of the two of them together decorate the walls of their apartment. “When we have lectures early in the morning, we get fresh rolls from the bakery and have breakfast together. We always eat together, it’s a habit,” the medical engineering and education students explain. From their kitchen on the seventh floor, they have the perfect view over the rooftops on Vettersstraße and of the Lutheran Church. They haven’t had any arguments so far, but each one has their own space to retreat to, not only in their rooms: “On the weekends, we usually go home to our families in Leipzig and Erfurt. We’ve also been to each other’s home towns too.” When the two come back to campus after weekends away, one of them usually brings cake or other food from home along with them in their luggage. “Otherwise we go grocery shopping together, we share everything.”

Modern Living in a Campus Setting

What used to be customary in Chemnitz’s dormitories in the GDR before Germany’s Reunification - austere four- and six-person rooms with bunkbeds and no showers “like in the army” – would today be unthinkable for Dirk Päßler, who calls them “an absolute no-go.” Today, the Student Union in Chemnitz offers only single-bed rooms in various living formats: single apartments or shared apartments with 2, 4, 6 or 7 people including a kitchen and bathrooms. All rooms are furnished with a desk, bed and wardrobe. In the basement, residents can find laundry rooms equipped with washing machines and dryers. The courtyards in front of the dormitories offer space for students to sit together, grill or study outside and enjoy the fresh air. “Each of our dormitories has different characteristics. Each one has its own style and architecture,” explains Päßler. The apartments in Reichenhainer Straße 35/37 are all connected by a shared gallery corridors ("Laubengänge"), while Vettersstraße 64 connects student rooms via a hallway in a more classic dormitory layout. In addition, residents of the dorms have access to shared spaces including fitness rooms, billiard tables and even a grand piano. Monthly rental rates vary between 169.50 and 259.50 euros, depending on the size of the room to be rented. In direct comparison with other university cities, the dormitories in Chemnitz have a clear advantage: the perfect location directly on campus. In other cities, they can be located far away from university buildings. “This can be particularly helpful for international students,” Dirk Päßler observes.

Pictures and more information is available from the Chemnitz-Zwickau Student Union’s website (only in German). You can take a virtual 360°-tour of the various rooms here.

(Author: Timon Ostermeier, Translation: Sarah Wilson)

More than 400 universities and technical colleges in German-speaking regions were compared in the most recent University Ranking published by the Centre for Higher Education (CHE). Alongside facts concerning academic studies, teaching and equipment, the ranking also features students’ opinions about study conditions at their higher education institution. The results were made public on May 3, 2016 in the ZEIT Study Guide 2016/17. Each year, one third of the entire range of subjects is reassessed. This year, the following subjects were assessed that are also represented at the Technische Universität Chemnitz: Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Chemistry, English and American Studies, German Studies and Psychology.

According to the CHE’s survey, among the study programs offered in Chemnitz, graduation in an appropriate amount of time is very possible in Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Chemistry and German Studies. It has also been certified that the Psychology program supports students very well. Technical fields such as Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics and Electrical Engineering and Information Technology scored points based on the large amount of funding raised for research, which ultimately affects the study programs’ proximity to research. The newest findings are quickly integrated into courses and the education that students receive.

Additionally, Chemnitz has been once again confirmed as one of the most affordable university locations in Germany. The average monthly rent that a student in Chemnitz pays (including utilities) on the private housing market amounts to 7.40 euro/square meter. Rental rates in the student dormitories can range from 159.50 to 259.90 euros, depending on the size of the room. Moreover, the supply rate for student housing in Chemnitz is about ten percent above the national average. The Chemnitz-Zwickau Student Union offers 2,028 places in the student dormitories on the TU campus.

Prof. Dr. Andreas Schubert, Acting Rector of the TU Chemnitz, is sensible of the fact that “the results of such rankings often represent just a snapshot of one moment in time and are also heavily dependent on responses to the survey.” Therefore, he recommends that anyone interested in a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the full spectrum of all 96 study programs at the TU pay a visit to the university. “The next Open Day on May 28 is a great opportunity for this,” according to Schubert. Additionally, the university homepage at www.tu-chemnitz.de/en provides all of the important information about studying at the TU and various available advisory services.

Advisory services at the TU Chemnitz (only in German): https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/studentenservice/zsb/beratungsangebote/beratung.php

(Author: Mario Steinebach, Translation: Sarah Wilson)