Beginning their studies initiates an exciting period of life for new students. However, the transition to university also raises many questions and presents various challenges.
The StartWeek is designed to make it easier for new students to begin their studies. It aims to familiarise first-year students with their new surroundings, the university's requirements and their fellow students.
By Students for Students
As part of their administrative, academic and social integration into the University of St. Gallen, new students are divided into 60 groups and supported by two students from higher semesters during the StartWeek. These tutors share their personal experience of studying at the university, are available to answer questions and provide the new students with valuable tips for successfully transitioning into higher education.
InfoSessions
The administrative induction familiarises new students with the HSG campus, with their new role as university students and with the organisational aspects of their studies. The various InfoSessions — Digital Learning & Collaboration, Studying & Examinations, Learning & Doing Research — support students' administrative integration and help them find their bearings in their new surroundings.
StartCase
The interdisciplinary case study introduces new students to doing scientific work in an academic context. Interconnected thinking is as important to working productively on the StartCase as is good teamwork. As part of their academic integration, the StartCase promotes students' critical self-reflection, a sense of responsibility, cooperation and team spirit in addition to building various technical and methodological skills. Key success factors for their university studies can be tried out and applied on a small scale
Social interaction
Friendships are a central element of student life. They make it easier to work together on challenging tasks and enrich life outside classes. Promoting students' social integration is an essential goal of the StartWeek. It is not uncommon that friendships that are formed in the Start Week last well beyond graduation.