Chemistry is more than just the periodic table and the theory of elements – 52 students will have the opportunity to experience this firsthand at this year's student college at TU Bergakademie Freiberg from August 19 to August 22, 2025. During an inspiring week, participants will immerse themselves in the fascinating world of chemistry and test whether this exciting field of study is right for them.
The start of the student college will be a real spectacle: a brightly colored experimental lecture will transport the young researchers into the world of chemical reactions. Impressive experiments, bursting with vibrant colors and exciting effects, will spark the participants' curiosity.
After the impressive introduction, the students will have the opportunity to get involved themselves. Equipped with lab coats and safety goggles, they transformed into real chemists. Under the guidance of experienced lecturers, they carried out exciting experiments – for example, measuring the heat of combustion of various foods with a bomb calorimeter, determining water hardness and extracting natural substances – and the young researchers were in their element. They analyzed samples, explored reverse osmosis and flotation, and discovered the many facets of chemistry.
“During these fascinating experiments and a convivial barbecue evening, the students have the opportunity to talk to undergraduates, doctoral candidates and professors. This gives them a realistic insight into the requirements and opportunities of studying in Freiberg,” explains chemist Professor Gero Frisch from the student college team.
The student college is not only an opportunity to learn about the world of chemistry, but also a place to make contacts and exchange ideas with like-minded people. Furthermore, it aims to inspire students in grades 11 and 12 who are interested in science to study chemistry. At TU Bergakademie Freiberg, chemistry is offered as both a diploma and a bachelor's degree program. Thanks to state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, there are enough places available for students to do internships – without any waiting lists. They are integrated into current research projects at an early stage and optimally prepared for the demands of the industry.
The feedback from recent years has been overwhelming: many students were surprised at how much fun experimenting can be and they were captivated by chemistry. Perhaps some of them will return this year as students to experience the full adventure of chemistry!
Anyone who would like to find out more about the next student college is welcome to contact the organizers Alexandra Gleißner and Jana Kriehme or visit the website of the Faculty of Chemistry, Physics, and Life Sciences (https://tu-freiberg.de/fakultaet2/schueler-und-lehrer).
The student college is financially supported by the German Chemical Society and the mentoring program of the Chemical Industry Fund.
