Your successful start at UMFST-UMCH

The Welcome Days mark the start of studies at the UMFST-UMCH Campus in Hamburg. During this event, first-semester students not only have the opportunity to gain their first impressions of studying medicine. The event also serves to get to know each other and make initial contacts in order to ensure that the start to their studies in Hamburg is as pleasant as possible.

The Welcome Days offer a varied and exciting program. First, there is a ceremonial welcome by Dean Assoc. Prof. Simona Muresan. She provides the students with the most important facts about the history of the university and about studying at its German branch in Hamburg. Afterwards, our prospective medical students can expect a joint lunch in the UMCH Cafeteria, the handing out of student IDs, UMCH lab coats and goodies as well as a musical entertainment program provided by members of the UMCH Band.

A successful and positive start for first-year students is particularly important to us. After all, it lays the foundation for an engaged and motivated student body that enriches the academic and social life of the university and forms a strong community.

At the beginning of their studies, so-called Study Survival Guides take place, in which first-semester students are given important experiences by already experienced fellow students and receive tips for a successful start to their studies.

An important part of the guides are tips on how to cope with everyday study and balance academic obligations with personal well-being. This includes, for example, advice on coping with stress and test anxiety as well as organizing one’s studies. Another major benefit of the guides is the ability to anticipate potential hurdles that may arise during the course of study and avoid potential problems. In this way, they give first-year students the confidence they need to succeed in their studies.

Overall, the events help new students find their way around their new environment more quickly, organize their time better and avoid potential stumbling blocks. The Study Survival Guides thus promote the exchange of experiences and solidarity among each other, which contributes to a successful study experience for everyone involved.

At the beginning of their studies, our first-year students are assisted by already enrolled students, so-called Student Ambassadors. Thanks to the first-hand experience they have, they provide the first-year students with valuable tips and offer assistance. As contact persons, they support students on an equal footing, create trust and promote exchange among students.

The Student Ambassadors accompany the new students of UMFST-UMCH in Hamburg, among other activities, during the Welcome Days. In doing so, they conduct campus tours and answer the new arrivals’ questions during their first days. In this way, they make an important contribution to the social integration of the first-semester students. Through their commitment and exemplary sense of community, they embody the university culture and strengthen the sense of community. Last but not least, they relieve the burden on university and campus staff by assisting with everyday questions and concerns of first-year students. All in all, the Student Ambassadors make it immensely easier for first-year students to start their studies and contribute significantly to a positive study experience.

Initiated and managed by UMFST-UMCH students, the @meet.umch Instagram account offers first-year students the opportunity to network with their future peers even before they begin their studies.