Exchange View: Hochschule Stralsund (A.K.A HOST)

Vol 26, Issue 18, 08 March 2024

Nestled within the beautiful Baltic city of Stralsund, Germany lies one of Xamk’s esteemed partner universities, Hochschule Stralsund, which is better known by locals as HOST. It is very easy to picture oneself immersed in this wonderful culturally rich city. This article will touch on some of the wonderful aspects HOST has to offer to its students and how to make the best of the exchange program experience.

Be sure to check out the week of activities solely designated to new students known as “Ersti Week” which translates to “first week”. This week is designed to offer the new arrivals a chance to integrate into the HOST life with activities – get to know one another, and network before the actual semester begins, giving you the chance to form alliances for tackling the upcoming semester. On offer during the week in question are activities such as BBQs, student welcome parties, speed friending, beach BBQs, city rallies, bar hopping and so much more. The “Ersti Week” activities are offered free of charge, as you indulge in some refreshing drinks and delicious food, courtesy of the generous hosts. While most activities are complimentary, exceptions may apply for individual expenses such as purchasing drinks for bar hopping and the bus ticket back to campus.

Excitingly, many of these events are organized by vibrant student clubs like The International Event Point and AStA. Even better, you can join these clubs yourself during the semester! The International Event Point is a great place to start for making new friends and finding fun activities to participate in. It is an association that was founded by students for students to bring German and international students together and plans exciting weekly events and activities for students. Possible activities include but are not limited to laser tag, paintball, bowling, and karaoke nights. The best part is having the autonomy to plan these events as long as they align with the budget since the association receives sponsorship for it. Upon completing the semester as a member, you will be awarded a certificate and you can add participation to your CV, a major plus!

Another incredible aspect of HOST is the proximity to the Baltic Sea, it is merely a few minutes to get to the beach from campus and because of this, there are water sports clubs for anyone interested to join. Sports like Dragon Boat and paddling which is a great way to spend the warm summer late afternoons are available, just make sure you know how to swim before signing up. If you are not interested in water sports, there are ways to get moving on solid ground, sports like basketball, Baltic Racing, and volleyball, and many more are available options.

HOST is quite known for throwing great parties, not only by the students at the student housing, which happens quite often so you will not be bored don’t worry, but also thrown by the university itself. There are parties such as The Open-Air party which takes place under the stars on campus to mark the beginning of the exam period and this happens every semester. In conclusion, spending your semester abroad at HOST will provide a plethora of adventures and connections, and you won’t regret it.