Author: Kim-Kristin Hain

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Recap 07.-10.04. | Orientation Days for International Students (Late Arrivals) | FIT: Welcome & Orientation

More details about the Orientation Days

Including all Presentations

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Before the start of the lecture period, the Department of International Student Affairs hosted its Orientation Week for Erasmus+ exchange students and international degree-seeking students beginning their studies in the winter or summer semester.

Throughout the program, participants were guided step by step through essential administrative processes, including enrolment and registration with local authorities. In addition, the sessions provided key information about studying in Siegen, as well as an overview of student services and campus life.

Beyond the formal sessions, the week offered a valuable opportunity for students to familiarize themselves with the university, explore the city, and connect with fellow international students. This helped create an open and supportive environment right from the start of their academic journey.

The program was supported by the Erasmus Student Network (ESN), whose members contributed to organizing activities and fostering connections among participants.

Overall, the Orientation Week ensured that new international students were well-prepared, informed, and socially integrated as they began their studies.

Featured image by Jan van der Wolf on pexels.

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Recap 11.+12.06.2026 | Workshop: German Work Culture | FIT: Soft Skills & Employability

People sitting at a table. One woman shakes a person's hand.

Over two interactive workshop sessions, international students explored how to navigate German workplace culture with confidence and professionalism. The workshop “Professional Behavior, Communication & Intercultural Competence” focused on helping participants better understand the expectations, communication styles, and unwritten rules that shape professional life in Germany.

Through a combination of practical exercises, role plays, discussions, and real-life workplace scenarios, students reflected on cultural differences and developed strategies for communicating effectively in academic and professional settings. Particular attention was given to professional behavior in meetings, clear and respectful communication, and building positive working relationships in diverse teams.

Participants also explored the role of body language, professional appearance, business etiquette, and networking. They practiced small talk and learned how to make a positive first impression in professional environments. In addition, the workshop addressed how to handle feedback and criticism constructively—an important skill for both personal and professional growth.

By the end of the workshop, participants had:

  • Gained a better understanding of German workplace culture and expectations
  • Improved their communication skills for professional and everyday work situations
  • Learned how to present themselves confidently through body language and appearance
  • Practiced networking and small-talk techniques
  • Strengthened their intercultural competence for working in diverse teams
  • Developed strategies for giving and receiving feedback effectively

As part of the Employability Pass, the workshop counted for 3 points in the category Soft Skills & Employability.

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07.-21.09.26 |Self-study course: Future Skill Resilience | FIT: Soft Skills & Employability

Strong and resilient in tomorrow’s working world!

📅 Date: Mon, September 7 – Mon, September 21, 2026 (self-study phase)
🕐 Optional reflection workshop: Fri, September 25, 2026, 10:00–12:00
📍 Location: Online (Moodle)

Are you looking to strengthen your ability to deal with stress, change, and challenges in your studies or future career? Then this course is designed for you.

  • Understand and develop resilience as a key future skill for academic and professional life
  • Reflect on your personal resources and learn practical strategies for handling stressful situations

👉 Find more details and the registration link on the Career Service website here.

Please note: This workshop is also offered in German. Check it out here.

This course is offered by the Career Service as part of the FIT programme “career competence Awareness Workshops (c2AW)”. The c2AW series contributes significantly to linking students’ personal competence profiles with job-related requirements in Germany.

This event counts for 3 points in the category “Soft skills and Employability” of the Employability Pass!

Featured image by Sergej on Pexels.

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Recap 08.05.26 | Stärken sichtbar machen – Schärfe Dein Bewerberprofil für den Arbeitsmarkt | FIT: Soft Skills & Employability

📅 Datum: Fr., 08.05.2026
🕐 Uhrzeit: 10:00–16:00 Uhr
📍 Ort: tba

Der Workshop „Stärken sichtbar machen – Schärfe Dein Bewerberprofil für den Arbeitsmarkt“ richtete sich an Studierende und Jobsuchende, die ihre Bewerbungsunterlagen verbessern, ihre berufliche Orientierung schärfen und sich gezielt auf den deutschen Arbeitsmarkt vorbereiten möchten.

Im Fokus standen die Reflexion eigener Kompetenzen sowie die Frage, wie persönliche Stärken überzeugend mit konkreten Jobprofilen verbunden werden können. Die Teilnehmenden arbeiteten daran, ihre fachlichen und persönlichen Fähigkeiten klarer zu formulieren und diese strategisch in Bewerbungsprozessen einzusetzen.

Zentrale Inhalte des Workshops waren:

  • Analyse und Sichtbarmachung individueller Stärken
  • Entwicklung eines klareren Bewerberprofils
  • Optimierung der Bewerbungsstrategie
  • Orientierung hinsichtlich Karrierewegen und Arbeitsmarktanforderungen
  • Vorbereitung auf Bewerbungs- und Vorstellungssituationen

Dieser Workshop wurde vom Career Service im Rahmen des FIT-Programms „career competence Awareness Workshops (c2AW)” angeboten. Die c2AW-Reihe leistet einen wichtigen Beitrag zur Verknüpfung persönlicher Kompetenzprofile von Studierenden mit arbeitsmarktbezogenen Anforderungen in Deutschland.

Featured Image von Skylar Kang auf Pexels.

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Recap 29.05.26 |Make your Strengths Visible – Your Job Profile as Key to the Job Market | FIT: Soft Skills & Employability

On May 29 international students took part in the workshop “Make Your Strengths Visible – Your Job Profile as Key to the Job Market” to explore an important question: What makes me a strong candidate, and how can I communicate that effectively to employers?

Throughout the day, participants reflected on their individual strengths, skills, experiences, and career goals. Through interactive exercises, guided self-reflection, and group discussions, they learned how to identify competencies they have developed through their studies, work experience, volunteering, and personal projects—and how to connect these strengths to the requirements of potential employers.

By the end of the workshop, participants had:

  • Identified their key strengths and competencies
  • Learned how to align their profiles with job requirements
  • Improved their application strategy and career orientation
  • Gained confidence in presenting themselves to employers
  • Developed a clearer understanding of their unique value in the job market

The workshop was offered by the Career Service as part of the FIT programme’s career competence Awareness Workshops (c2AW). The c2AW series contributes significantly to linking students’ personal competence profiles with job-related requirements in Germany.

You can check out all Career Service offers here.

This workshop counted for 3 points in the Soft Skills & Employability category of the Employability Pass!

Featured image by Skylar Kang on Pexels.

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Recap 05.12.2025 From Siegen to Success – International Alumni Event | FIT: Soft Skills & Employability

On December 5th, international students gathered for the From Siegen to Success Alumni Event to connect with former international students and gain valuable insights into studying, living, and building a career in Germany. This inspiring session brought together current students and alumni eager to share their personal stories, tips, and professional journeys, creating an open space for learning and exchange.

Event Highlights:

✅ Insights from international alumni:
Students heard firsthand experiences about arriving in Germany, adapting to a new culture, and navigating life as an international student at the University of Siegen.

✅ Success strategies for studies:
Alumni shared practical advice on managing academic expectations, finding the right support, and succeeding in the German higher education system.

✅ Career pathways in Germany:
Participants gained an understanding of how to approach job searches, explore professional opportunities, and take meaningful steps toward a career in Germany after graduation.

✅ Personal stories & realistic guidance:
The speakers offered honest reflections on the challenges they faced—along with the opportunities that helped them grow—providing both encouragement and actionable tips for students at any stage of their journey.

✅ Networking session:
After the talks, students joined a relaxed networking round with alumni. This was a chance to ask questions, exchange experiences, and build meaningful connections while enjoying light refreshments.

As the event concluded, students left feeling motivated and better prepared to shape their academic and professional path in Germany, supported by the real-life experiences of those who once stood where they stand today.

Overall, From Siegen to Success offered an enriching opportunity for international students to learn from alumni role models, expand their networks, and gain confidence in their next steps—whether settling into life in Siegen or preparing for their future careers.

🎓 This event counted for 1 point in the category Soft Skills & Employability of the Employability Pass!

✅ Follow us on Instagram: @int.uni-siegen
✅ Join our WhatsApp Channel

Featured image by fauxels.

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Recap 17.11.25 Company Visit: Heinrich Georg GmbH | FIT: Career & Networking

On November 17th, 2025, international students of the university of Siegen had the chance to visit Heinrich Georg GmbH Maschinenfabrik, a globally recognized company specializing in special-purpose machinery and plant engineering, located in Kreuztal. Despite the rainy weather, the bus ride provided a great opportunity for students to network and discuss expectations for the visit.

The afternoon began with a warm welcome by the public relations staff, who introduced the company and its values. The group was then treated to a presentation about the history and evolution of Heinrich Georg, from its founding in the 1940s to its current position as a leader in digitalization within industrial engineering.

Highlights of the visit included:

  • A detailed company presentation on Heinrich Georg’s 70+ years of innovation in machinery and plant engineering

  • A guided tour of the state-of-the-art production facilities, showcasing how the company integrates traditional engineering with modern digital solutions

  • A chance to connect with multinational employees, including one who shared his personal experiences working at Heinrich Georg, speaking to students in Hindi and offering valuable insights into the company’s diverse, international team

  • Refreshments, including food, coffee, and tea, providing an opportunity for informal networking and further discussions with company staff and fellow students

  • A Q&A session, allowing students to ask questions about the company’s operations, culture, and career opportunities in the high-tech machinery industry

The visit provided students with valuable insights into the innovative world of industrial engineering and career opportunities at a leading global company.

Bonus: This event counted for 1 point in the Career & Networking category of the Employability Pass!

A big thank you to Heinrich Georg GmbH for their warm hospitality and to all the students who made this visit such a successful and enriching experience!

✅ Follow us on Instagram: @int.uni-siegen
✅ Join our WhatsApp Channel

 

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Recap: 12.12. Intercultural Session: Smart Living in Germany (and) a piece of Cake FIT: Welcome & Orientation

On December 12, 2025, international students took part in the interactive session “Smart Living in Germany (and a Piece of Cake)” as part of the FIT: Welcome & Orientation program.

The session focused on helping participants navigate everyday life in Germany more easily, efficiently, and cost-effectively. Through practical input, discussion, and shared experiences, students gained valuable insights into local habits, cultural norms, and strategies for managing daily challenges in a new environment.

Highlights of the session:

✅ Practical tips for organizing everyday life in Germany

✅ Smart strategies for adapting to new cultural norms and expectations

✅ Insights into housing, shared living, and local habits

✅ Learning how to manage expenses and make the most of student life

✅ Experiencing the German tradition of coffee and cake in a social setting

Participants had the opportunity to exchange experiences, ask questions, and reflect on their own adjustment process. The session created a supportive environment that helped students feel more confident and better prepared for daily life in Germany.

Outlook

Further sessions within the FIT: Welcome & Orientation program will continue to support international students throughout their transition. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to build practical skills and connect with others.

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Recap: 06.11. Intercultural Awareness Session for International Students (Late Arrivals) FIT: Welcome & Orientation

On November 6, 2025, international students who arrived late or were unable to attend the Orientation Days joined our Intercultural Awareness Session as part of the FIT: Welcome & Orientation program.

The session was designed to support students in navigating their new cultural environment and to help them better understand the challenges and opportunities of intercultural experiences. Through interactive input, discussions, and shared reflections, participants explored how cultural differences influence everyday situations and communication.

Highlights of the session:

✅ Understanding cultural adaptation processes and typical challenges in a new environment

✅ Learning strategies to deal with cultural misunderstandings effectively

✅ Reflecting on personal experiences and cultural perspectives

✅ Connecting and exchanging with fellow international students

The session provided a supportive space for participants to share their experiences, gain new perspectives, and build confidence in dealing with intercultural situations. Students left with practical tools to better navigate daily life and feel more at home in their new surroundings.

Outlook

Further workshops and support offers for international students will continue throughout the semester. Stay tuned for upcoming events and opportunities to strengthen your intercultural and professional skills.