"I'm the master of ceremonies this morning. You can expect a varied program, garnished with information." With these words, Prof. Claus Volkenandt, Deputy Academic Director of the WittenLab. Zukunftslabor Studium fundamentale, welcomed the first semester students at the start of the 2026 summer semester.

The start of the semester began in the Audimax with an official welcome from the WittenLab Board of Directors. Afterwards, things got lively in the Great Hall: The traditional Market of Opportunities offered the new students an inspiring insight into the wide range of activities at the university.

Here it became clear how much energy, curiosity and creative drive characterize the university. Numerous student initiatives, student councils and projects invited students to get into conversation and discover their own perspectives. At UW/H, there are countless ways to get involved, think outside the box and shape society together.

The WittenLab. was also represented on site and provided information about the Studium fundamentale at its own stand. New students were able to clarify individual questions about events, registrations and procedures and gain initial orientation for the start of their studies.

Many first-year students took the opportunity to make contacts or take away ideas for their own involvement. Whether making direct connections or gathering initial ideas - the university offers the right space and a wide range of support to develop and implement your own projects.

The start of the semester was therefore not only a successful start to your studies, but also an invitation to become part of the lively initiative culture at UW/H.

Many thanks to all those involved in organizing this day.

We wish all new students an inspired start and look forward to an engaging semester!