What began in 2019 as a virtual project made the leap into the physical world four years later: Four distinctly different educational institutions - Iowa State University (Ames, USA), Wayne State University (Detroit, USA), Ruhr West University of Applied Sciences in Mühlheim and Bottrop, and Harz University of Applied Sciences - organized their first joint "Transatlantic Summer School" in 2023. The premiere took place in Wernigerode and focused on sustainability and energy. Subsequently, the baton was passed to Iowa.

"In summer 2024, students from all universities worked together on innovative solutions for sustainable food supply, first virtually and then for two weeks in the American Midwest," reports Prof. Dr. Louisa Klemmer. This collaboration is one of the passion projects of the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Teaching, and Internationalization. "This year, students gained comprehensive insights into the food system - from production and distribution to consumption and waste minimization. The focus was on innovative and responsible approaches to addressing societal challenges," the professor continues.

Participant Larissa Meinert reflects enthusiastically: "We immersed ourselves deeply in the world of agriculture and food science! Through multiple excursions, we observed sustainable production methods, visited traditional operations with greenhouses, apple orchards, and vineyards, and jointly practiced sustainable shopping and cooking," reports the tourism student. She particularly remembers her time on an American campus and experiencing the local culture. "We were right in the middle of it all, speaking English the entire time, living in student apartments, and using public transportation," says the 25-year-old. The second week centered on the Design Thinking process: interdisciplinary teams worked on innovative solutions addressing "Zero Hunger." "To this day, I'm inspired by how much can be achieved when we work together toward a common goal," says Larissa Meinert.

"Harz University of Applied Sciences is proud to be part of this international cooperation. The program, which began as a virtual exchange, has evolved into a valuable platform for intercultural learning and networking," emphasizes Louisa Klemmer and extends an invitation: "In the coming years, the Transatlantic Summer School will be hosted by the other partner universities: in 2025 at Ruhr West University of Applied Sciences focusing on 'Implementing Sustainability' and in 2026 at Wayne State University in Detroit."

Larissa Meinert is convinced: "Anyone who has the opportunity to participate in this program should absolutely do so." Professor Klemmer agrees. The professor with international roots grew up between Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom, and completed her studies and doctorate in Florida: "A stay abroad offers unique perspectives. Actively shape a sustainable future and let yourself be inspired by an adventure that enhances your academic profile and broadens your horizons," the expert emphasizes.

Apply now for the Transatlantic Summer School 2025! Next year's focus will be on implementing sustainability. Following the virtual component, the international teams from the four universities will meet from August 4-15 in the Ruhr region. All students from Harz University of Applied Sciences are warmly invited to apply by January 10, 2025. The application form and additional information are available at:
▲ Hochschule Harz: Summer School