Cross-cultural program titled "Strangers Turn into Pals"
In the heart of Germany, the city of Erfurt has become a melting pot of cultures, thanks to the presence of international students who flock to the city to study at the University or University of Applied Sciences. One initiative that has played a significant role in helping these students integrate into the local community is the "Strangers Become Friends" project.
Launched in 2002, this project aims to foster intense contact between international students and local residents. The project pairs international students with locals, encouraging intercultural exchange, friendship building, and mutual support. This mutual interaction contributes to a smoother integration into the community and university life, providing international students with a sense of belonging and making Erfurt feel like a second home.
Prof. Dr. Frank Setzer, President of the University of Applied Sciences Erfurt, and Prof. Dr. Walter Bauer-Wabnegg, President of the University of Erfurt, are among the project's supporters. Alexander Brettin, the Managing Director of MitMenschen e.V., is also involved in the project's management.
Since its inception, the "Strangers Become Friends" project has attracted students from over 70 countries, with approximately 2000 students involved or currently participating. Some students complete their entire degree in Erfurt, while others may only spend a semester or a year. Regardless of their duration, the project leaves a lasting impression on them, shaping their view of Germany.
Sari A. M. from Indonesia, for instance, expressed her love for Erfurt in 2004, considering it her second home after living there. Many local residents have also served as dedicated mentors to international students, offering their time, knowledge, and warm welcome.
The project has the support of Erfurt's Mayor, Andreas Bausewein, and it is not uncommon to find local residents eager to get to know these temporary fellow citizens. The project has been ongoing for nearly two decades, and it continues to play a crucial role in fostering intercultural understanding and promoting a welcoming environment for international students in Erfurt.
- "The 'Strangers Become Friends' project, initiated in 2002, extends beyond academic life, fostering relationships that encompass various aspects of lifestyle, such as home-and-garden shared experiences and traditions, all contributing to a stronger sense of belonging for international students in Erfurt."
- "Integration into the Erfurt community is further facilitated through the 'Strangers Become Friends' project, as international students are introduced to the local culture, creating a unique blend of lifestyles within the home-and-garden setting of the city."
