Open letter to all TUM Students
Dear fellow students,
In addition to the ongoing war in Ukraine, not to mention the number of other crises currently unfolding in the world, the situation for students has become more complicated with the renewed escalation in the Middle East. All these conflicts have an enormous impact on both international and domestic students. We express our deepest condolences to the civilian population in Israel and Palestine. We would therefore like to draw the attention of all students to the services offered by the Student Representatives and the university, as well as to the shared values of our university.
We condemn anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, as well as any form of (social) discrimination, regardless of reasons and manner. If you experience any such behaviour, feel threatened or discriminated, please speak up. There are many points of contact, both directly with us, the Studierendenwerk or TUM itself.
You can contact us, your central Student Representation, at any time for initial contact, advice on where to turn or simply as an intermediary. We have an open ear for all your concerns and needs and will help you to the best of our knowledge.
If you need professional psychological counselling, you are welcome to contact the Studierendenwerk. The emotional stress caused by what is happening in the world is extreme. You should never be afraid to seek help for this or any other reason. They also have advice centres for legal matters and student finance. No matter why you are having difficulties, you can be shown numerous options here and the best way forward will be sought together with you.
If you need support with your studies, your student council will be happy to help you. For requests of hardship, which can provide you with relief in your studies due to private matters, please contact your school directly, more specifically your examination board or the student advisory service. The Center for Study and Teaching will also be happy to help, in a case of violations against the Code of Conduct, you can further address the Compliance Office. Specifically for international students, there is further information on the TUM website, where you can read up and find out more if you need it.
You are not alone in your situation. We can connect you with other affected students if that helps you. Our departments deal with many different topics and concerns. You will often find other students who have similar needs or wishes there, but in any case, students who will stand by your side and tackle your concerns together with you!
All these services are free of charge for you. Even if you end up at the wrong address, we will be glad to help you. If you would like to become active yourself, whether you are affected or simply want to stand up for your fellow student, feel free to get in touch.
Our university is our home, a peaceful place to come together and the place where we shape our future. Let's work together to make everyone feel welcome here!
Brar Schulz and Isabella Hennessen
On behalf of your Student Representatives and your student councils