Ceremonial Farewell for the Graduates of the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics
On February 7, 2025, the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics held its formal graduation ceremony. In a festive setting, 107 graduates received their congratulatory letters. Over the past year, a total of 305 students and doctoral candidates successfully completed their studies or doctoral degrees at the faculty. The degrees were awarded as follows:
- Physics: 61 B.Sc., 43 M.Sc., 12 M.Sc. Physics
- Mathematics: 39 B.Sc., 11 M.Sc.
- Teaching Degree: 7 B.A. Physics major, 41 B.A. Mathematics major, 10 B.A. Mathematics and Physics major
- Master of Education: 2 in Physics, 23 in Mathematics, 12 in Mathematics and Physics, 6 following a subject-specific bachelor's degree in Physics and Mathematics
- Doctorates: 31 in Physics, 7 in Mathematics
The event began with a speech by the Dean, Professor Uwe Semmelmann. In his address, he praised the exceptional achievements of the graduates and emphasized the challenges associated with studying mathematics or physics:
"You have all successfully completed an important degree—one that many consider very difficult and for which schools are providing less and less preparation. You persevered, overcame obstacles and challenging periods, and learned a great deal. That deserves recognition!"
He also addressed recent developments at the university and acknowledged the increasing engagement of students, which was particularly evident in university policy demonstrations over the past year:
"Student engagement, especially within our faculty, has reached a whole new level. A key moment was the demonstration on November 15, 2024, when many of you took to the streets alongside the university administration to advocate for better higher education funding."
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of various awards for outstanding academic achievements:
- Wilhelm and Else Heraeus Dissertation Prize (Wilhelm and Else Heraeus Foundation)
- Graduation Prizes for Bachelor and Master Teaching Degrees (Dr. Karl Eisele & Elisabeth Eisele Foundation)
- Graduation Prizes for B.Sc. and M.Sc. Mathematics (Association of Friends of Mathematics)
- Three awards for the best M.Sc. Physics and M.Sc. Physics graduates
Following the formal ceremony, celebrations continued in the foyer. With sparkling wine and finger food, graduates took the opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments together with family, friends, and faculty members. A particular highlight was the photo station, where graduates could don a traditional gown and capture memorable moments.
The faculty warmly congratulates all graduates on their achievements and wishes them success in their future endeavors—whether in academia, education, or industry.