The orientation week began over the weekend with a day-and-a-half intercultural seminar. Following that, there was a hiking trip to the waterfall near Bad Urach and the ruins of Hohenurach Castle, guided by a representative from the NABU (Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union). On the following Monday, various info sessions were planned, along with group activities where students had to research information themselves and present their findings to others. In the afternoon, there was a scavenger hunt through Nürtingen using a mobile app. Additionally, there were campus tours and a guided tour of the new library before the day concluded with the legendary Welcome Party at the Kleiner Keller.
Tuesday included an introduction to an online German course and a presentation by the Ecumenical University Community, which collaborates with the university to organize excursions, such as the upcoming trip to Cyprus. Udo Renner then presented his semester course "Germany at a Glance," providing a comprehensive overview of German history, culture, and politics. The International Office then explained integration projects for international students. In the afternoon, students experienced cultural shock through the dice game "KultuRalley." The day concluded with a reception by the mayor at the town hall. Wednesday was dedicated to practical matters: registration at the citizen's office and opening a bank account. Thursday featured a seminar on academic writing.
The orientation week concluded on Friday with a trip to Metzingen, visiting the Outlet City and Sigmaringen Castle. In Metzingen, there was a tour of the outlet area and insights into its operations. The visit to Sigmaringen Castle was led by a local guide, providing fascinating historical context.
Another highlight for international students is the traditional country evening, focusing on different countries each time. This time, the theme was "One Continent many Voices – an Evening of European Elegance," funded by the Local Erasmus+ Initiative (LEI) and the International Student Club (DAAD project funds). Exchange students from Italy, Hungary, Belgium, Spain, Greece, and Germany prepared presentations and introductions about the EU and its member states.
From the sunny coasts of Italy to the bustling streets of Spain, the ancient heritage of Greece, the rich tapestry of Hungary, the culinary delights of Belgium, and the industrious German entrepreneurship, attendees had the opportunity to explore the diversity of traditions, languages, and customs that unite Europeans. Of course, there was delicious food, including dishes like Spaghetti Napoletana, Pasta alla Boscaiola, Gyros with Tzatziki, Tapas with Chorizo and Manchego, Bread with Tepertö and Salami (Hungarian), Obazda with Pretzels, Potato Salad and Maultaschen, freshly made Liege waffles with strawberries and chocolate sauce (a sort of live cooking), Tiramisu, and Kakaós Csigá (like cinnamon rolls with cocoa).
The country evening, organized by the International Office and the Ecumenical University Community Nürtingen, but largely driven by the students themselves, attracted more than a hundred guests to the parish hall of the Catholic parish of St. Johannes in Nürtingen.