Erasmus+ Staff Week

We are delighted to invite you to the Erasmus+ Staff Week at the University of Siegen, taking place from October 6 to 10, 2025. Visit us in Germany’s greenest city during Indian Summer!

We warmly invite colleagues from our European partner universities to join us for a dynamic week of workshops, practical insights, and cultural exchange — with a special focus on supporting the mental health and career development of international students and staff. Together, we’ll explore strategies, share experiences, and shape inclusive approaches to internationalization.

AN INSPIRING PROGRAM AWAITS YOU

📌The week kicks off on Monday with a warm welcome by the International Office and university leadership, followed by an International Coffee Break, a hands-on introduction to student services and a lively German language session.
We will also visit our Student Living Room, the place where we focus on building a community that helps international students feel right at home while they navigate their student life. Whether they are looking to unwind after classes, share experiences, or meet new people, this is the perfect spot to connect with others.

📌Tuesday focuses on mental health and well-being for students in a university context, with workshops and discussions led by experts from the university's Psychological Counseling Center and student services. In the afternoon, participants will gain insights into collegial health and occupational wellbeing.

📌Wednesday offers practical sessions on student health management, innovative learning spaces at the university library, and career development support for international students – including a campus tour. Our university is located on a beautiful green campus surrounded by forested areas and open landscapes. The natural setting creates a peaceful and inspiring learning environment, perfect for both academic focus and personal well-being. Walking paths, outdoor study areas, and scenic spots invite you to relax and connect with nature between our workshops.

📌On Thursday, participants will explore project-based internationalization under the theme “FIT – Forging International Talents”, including best practices and ideas for international career support programs. A hands-on workshop will encourage the creation of institution-specific initiatives.
The day will conclude with a cultural program. A guided tour through Siegen’s historic old town takes the group on a journey through centuries of history and local culture. Participants will explore charming cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses and visit the Castle, which offers panoramic views of the green city. Afterwards, the group will visit the "Rubens Museum", dedicated to the life and work of the Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens, who was born in Siegen.

📌On Friday, the group reflects on the week’s experiences during an open feedback session. This will be followed by a certificate ceremony, a group photo at Schlossplatz, and a relaxed closing with finger food and informal exchange.

A detailed program booklet with comprehensive information about the speakers and useful tips will be provided to participants well in advance of the BIP start.

DATES (VIRTUAL AND PHYSICAL COMPONENT)

As part of the Erasmus+ framework, the University of Siegen’s Erasmus+ Staff Week 2025 is designed as a Blended Intensive Program (BIP). This format combines a virtual component with a physical mobility phase to provide a comprehensive and collaborative learning experience.

Prior to the on-site week in Siegen from October 6 to 10, 2025, participants will take part in an online preparatory session, offering an opportunity to get to know each other, receive logistical guidance, and engage in initial thematic discussions. The online preparatory session (virtual component) will take place on September 23, 2025 and is mandatory.

virtual component: 23.09.2025

physical component: 06.10. - 10.10.2025

APPLICATION AND ERASMUS+ FUNDING

Please apply for the Erasmus+ Staff Week using the following link: https://siegen.moveon4.de/form/681c7aa4521240ba27023609/eng

📩 Application deadline: 30.06.2025

We will inform you by July 15, 2025 at the latest whether your application was successful. If you are accepted, you can apply for an Erasmus+ scholarship for a Blended Intensive Program with your International Office!

ARRIVAL AND ACCOMODATION

We are excited to have you join our Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program. Siegen is easily accessible by train with the main train station just a few minutes walk from the campus. The nearest airports are Cologne/Bonn, Duesseldorf and Frankfurt, all of which are well connected to Siegen by public transport.

Accommodation must be booked individually. We recommend that you make your booking after receiving confirmation from us, to ensure availability and the best options. There are various booking options available through online portals. Additionally, after your confirmation for the BIP, we will offer a contingent of rooms in a selected hotel for your convenience. More details on how to book will be provided once your participation is confirmed.

CONTACT

If you have any questions about the content or the application process, please don’t hesitate to contact our coordinator, Madeleine Höfer, directly via email.

We place great value on providing individual support, so you’re also very welcome to arrange a personal Webex meeting with her – we’re happy to take the time to address your concerns.