Networking That Brings People Together: A Look at Mentoring and Buddy Programs at TU Dresden

On June 9, 2026, everything at TU Dresden revolved around exchange, networking, and a culture of active support: coordinators of buddy and mentoring programs both within and outside the university came together to discuss their work and learn from one another.

The meeting focused on practical experiences, current challenges, and new ideas on how students—especially international students—can be supported in a targeted manner on their academic journey. The in-depth dialogue demonstrated once again how important face-to-face interactions and cross-institutional collaboration are for academic success and social integration.

A special highlight was the subsequent“Program Marketplace,”which was aimed directly at students. Numerous initiatives presented their offerings, invited students to get to know them, and created low-threshold opportunities to make contact. An interactive bingo game provided a playful approach and facilitated interaction between the programs and interested students.

Symbolic of the effectiveness of these offerings: all 15 TUD water bottles provided found new owners. A wonderful sign that the programs are delivering exactly what students need—guidance, connections, and a sense of belonging.

Participants in the event included, among others:

• International Tutoring Program

• STIK

• Welcome Tutors from the Dresden Student Union

• WISE – Women in Science and Engineering

• Indian Association Dresden e. V.

• “Integration through Friendship” by the Welcome Center

• DE-LATAM e. V.

• Plattform Dresden e. V.

• LiDiCo

• Colleagues from the Service Center Studium (SCS), ZILL, and the International Office

Another step toward sustainable networking is the newly founded LinkedIn group“Mentoring Community Dresden,”through which participants will continue to stay in touch.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Linda Lauer (art.is.chocolate.for.the.brain), who photographed the event and impressively captured the special moments of the day.

TU Dresden looks forward to continuing the dialogue we’ve started in the coming year and further strengthening our collaboration. Until then, you can find an overview of all mentoring and buddy programs here.