The freshers’ welcome traditionally symbolises new beginnings and new paths; for one person, however, it also marked a farewell on this occasion. On Monday 16 March 2026, Gertrud Maltz-Schwarzfischer attended the freshers’ welcome for the last time in her capacity as Lord Mayor of the City of Regensburg. As a token of gratitude for her many years of commitment to the students and the close ties between the city and the university, Prof. Dr Ralph Schneider, President of OTH Regensburg, presented her with a special gift: OTH honey. With a twinkle in his eye, he summed up the moment: “Our OTH honey is intended to sweeten your remaining term of office – and, of course, the time that follows – just a little. I very much hope that it tastes at least as good as we have enjoyed working with you.”
An excellent choice in OTH Regensburg
President Schneider then turned his attention back to those for whom the day was all about a new beginning: the new students at OTH Regensburg. “You have made an excellent choice in OTH Regensburg,” he emphasised, referring to the latest StudyCheck Award 2026, in which the university ranks first nationwide among all universities and colleges with 5,000 to 15,000 students. “We are here for you and hope that you will soon feel part of our university community and play an active role in shaping it.”
In his address, President Schneider particularly highlighted the university’s strengths: the close practical relevance in all degree programmes, the high quality of teaching, and the diverse opportunities to develop professional and personal skills. Compulsory work placements, partnerships with local businesses and institutions, and up-to-date research findings that are directly incorporated into teaching ensure thorough preparation for professional life.
Internationality also characterises the OTH Regensburg campus. Students from 99 nations study and conduct research here together. In the summer semester, the university is also welcoming seven exchange students from new Indian partner universities for the first time. “They enrich our university and contribute to a cosmopolitan atmosphere,” said President Schneider.
A wide range of advisory services and a vibrant campus life
In addition to being welcomed by the university management and the city, the first-year students also gained an insight into the support services available and student life. Andrea Stelzl, Head of the Student Lifecycle Centre (SLC), together with her team, presented the wide range of advisory and support services. The SLC supports students throughout their studies – from orientation at the start of their degree, through questions about scholarships and career planning, to the transition into the alumni network.
Felicitas Teichert and Judith Gabriel from the student council provided an insight into student engagement at the university. They explained how students can get involved in student councils, initiatives and university groups – whether through social engagement, international projects or student societies. Such activities play a key role in shaping campus life and offer numerous opportunities to make contacts and actively help shape their studies.
Following the central welcome, the new students went to their faculties, where they received further information about their degree programmes and the start of their studies. Full of curiosity, motivation and new perspectives, their time at OTH Regensburg is now beginning.
