Aromas, Dialogue, Diversity: Universities Send a Strong Signal for Diversity

The aroma of flatbread, Vietnamese spring rolls, and strong spices was in the air while the first guests helped themselves to international snacks at the buffet. In the midst of it all: conversations in German and English, first encounters, lots of curiosity. At the German Diversity Day 2025, the Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt (KU) and Ingolstadt University of Applied Sciences (THI) held their first joint event to show how diversity is put into practice - with heart, humour, and genuine exchange.

The focus was on a topic that characterises the everyday lives of many students and employees: Internationality. The event kicked off with a panel discussion entitled ‘Living and working as an international in Ingolstadt’. People with international biographies gave personal insights, talking about hurdles, opportunities, and the daily interaction between languages, cultures, and mentalities.

Clichés were also addressed with openness and a wink: from German thoroughness to South American lightness. It quickly became clear that behind every stereotype is a person with their own story, perspective, and voice.

‘We wanted to show how much potential there is in diversity - for our universities, but also the city,’ said Dr Veronika Hecht (KU), who developed the idea for the event together with Astrid Moser (THI).

Afterwards, a World Café invited participants to continue the dialogue: informal, multilingual, with tea, juice, and international snacks. In a relaxed atmosphere, topics such as settling in Ingolstadt, study experiences, or personal ‘aha’ moments in cultural contact were discussed.

The message of the evening was clear: diversity is not just a buzzword - it manifests itself in everyday life, in conversation, and shared laughter. With their event, KU and THI set a visible example: Diversity is not just a topic here - it is part of the reality on campus. And: it connects.